
Photo courtesy of The Edgewater
Madison’s unique topography lends itself to spectacular views of the city and the nature surrounding it. Whether you’re lake-side or plane-side, these restaurant views offer up unique perspectives of this Midwestern town. We asked our readers to weigh in on their favorite spots, and you’ll definitely want to check out the top picks if you haven’t already. Here are the best dining views in Madison, according to the votes!
Eno Vino Downtown
Eno Vino Downtown sits atop the AC Hotel and offers views of the Capitol Building and Lake Monona. With over 200 wines by the bottle and excellent cocktail offerings, Eno Vino aims to pair an impeccable dining experience with some of the best views in Madison.
The Icehouse at the Edgewater

Photo courtesy of The Edgewater
The Icehouse at the Edgewater is the perfect dining experience on all fronts. The Icehouse is a food hall that serves a variety of grab-and-go items. During the warmer months, sit on the Grand Plaza and take in the sights. The plaza is the perfect place to view a lakeside sunset or ice skaters during rink season.
The Jet Room
The Jet Room is located inside the Wisconsin Aviation terminal building, and the restaurant has had its fair share of evolution and change. The O’Malley family started the first iteration of The Jet Room in 1976, and by 2002, the Jet Room had been transformed alongside the Dane County Regional Airport. The Jet Room is a quintessential diner with a front-row seat to jets taking off and landing.
Sardine
If you’re a French food connoisseur, Sardine offers the perfect setting. The ambience and seafood-focused entreés make Sardine one of the best places in Madison to enjoy lovely views of Lake Monona and a partake in a French bistro experience.
Mariner’s Inn
The Mariner’s Inn is a family-owned restaurant dating back to 1966. Known for its steaks and waterfront dining, The Mariner Inn has offered stellar views of the marina since Bill and Betty Von Rutenberg opened the restaurant. Stop by for the Friday Fish Fry and take in the scenery.
READ MORE: The 3 best new restaurants in Madison, according to our readers

10 Wisconsin breweries that make a difference
Many breweries serve more than tasty ales—they also dish out goodwill. From grant programs to sustainability efforts, Wisconsin breweries make a big...

2025 Wisconsin State Fair: Here are finalists for this year’s Drinkies, Sporkies awards
The list of Drinkies and Sporkies finalists at the 2025 Wisconsin State Fair has some rock-star glamor. Fans can sip a Purple Rain Refresher at this...

The 40 best restaurants in Madison, according to our readers
Over 500 votes came in from our readers deciding which restaurants, bars, and shops are the best places to visit in Madison. We’ve taken those votes...

2 Wisconsin Donut Shops Crack Yelp’s Top 100
It’s just a FACT: The best way to start your day is with something sweet! And it’s even better when that treat is fried, frosted, and from a spot on...