Madison Food Guide: 5 restaurants with breathtaking views

Photo courtesy of The Edgewater

By UpNorthNews Staff

May 6, 2025

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.