Regent might be better known for shady trees, classic homes, and its close-knit community feel, but this historic Madison neighborhood packs a surprising culinary punch. Whether you’re a UW grad living off-campus, a family exploring eats after a Vilas Park stroll, or a local forever on the hunt for the next hidden gem, Regent’s dining scene is a rewarding journey. Let’s dig in!
Regent’s Restaurant Row: Monroe Street Magic
Start your food tour along Monroe Street—Regent’s most bustling culinary artery. Lined with an eclectic mix of restaurants and cafés, Monroe Street is the undeniable heart of the neighborhood food scene.
- Gates & Brovi (3502 Monroe St.): A local favorite for Italian-American comfort food, this spot is famous for its battered fried cod, clam chowder, and from-scratch pasta. The vibe is lively but inviting—a great place to catch a game with friends or indulge in a big bowl of mussels with garlic bread. Entrees typically range from $14–$25.
- Pizza Brutta (1805 Monroe St.): If wood-fired Neapolitan pizza is your love language, Pizza Brutta will steal your heart. Ingredients are organic, crusts blistered just right, and toppings range from the classic Margherita to inventive combos like prosciutto-arugula. Expect to pay $10–$16 per pizza.
- Mickie’s Dairy Bar (1511 Monroe St.): Just east of Randall Avenue, this old-school diner is a game-day ritual. Known for massive breakfast scramblers, homemade pies, and bottomless mugs of coffee, Mickie’s is delightfully affordable (most plates under $10) and keeps its retro charm alive with Formica counters and checkered floors.
- Everly (2701 Monroe St.): For farm-fresh, California-inspired fare, Everly offers everything from avocado toast and poke bowls to decadent brunches with house-made pastries. The airy, modern vibe makes it a favorite for groups and families. Brunch, salads, and dinner plates range $12–$18.
- Brasserie V (1923 Monroe St.): Recently rebranded but holding onto its Belgian soul, this café/bar is a destination for mussels, steak frites, and an astounding array of Belgian and Wisconsin craft beers. Snag mussels during happy hour or split pommes frites with garlicky aioli. Most entrees hover around $17–$24.
Regent Street Delights: A Taste of Tradition
While Monroe gets the headlines, the stretch along Regent Street itself (between Randall Ave. and Speedway Rd.) offers a few stand-out stops:
- Greenbush Bakery (1402 Regent St.): A haven for donut lovers, especially after hours. Greenbush’s raised and cake donuts—think maple long johns, cherry-filled, and classic crullers—are legendary. Swing by after a Regent Street bar night or an early morning run. Donuts are $1–$2.
- Jordan’s Big 10 Pub (1330 Regent St.): The ultimate old-school sports bar, Jordan’s is where you’ll find pitchers of Wisconsin beer, big burgers, and classic fried cheese curds. It’s lively on Badger game days, making it a slice of Madison tradition.
Hidden Gems: Off the Beaten Path
The best Regent eats aren’t always obvious. Here are some local secrets:
- Bloom Bake Shop (1851 Monroe St., tucked behind Orange Tree Imports): Tucked away in a courtyard, Bloom is a morning secret-weapon for melt-in-your-mouth scones, gooey morning buns, and frosted cupcakes. They even cater to gluten-free and vegan sweet tooths. You’ll spend $2–$5 for pastry paradise.
- Taqueria La Mestiza (1825 Monroe St. in the Lake Point Commons): Regent isn’t thick with Mexican spots, so La Mestiza’s laid-back, fast-casual vibe and authentic Mexican street food is a major win. Get their tacos al pastor or mole enchiladas, all under $12.
- Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream (1726 Monroe St.): Alongside classic and out-there flavors (Zanzibar chocolate or Fat Elvis, anyone?), this spot rolls scoops big enough to share. The local, family-owned chain has a loyal following and offers a sweet treat after lunch on Monroe.
Coffee and Café Culture
Regent’s café scene is serious about beans, cozy corners, and flaky pastries.
- Colectivo Coffee (2530 Monroe St.): This Milwaukee-based roaster’s Regent outpost is a hub for students, remote workers, and caffeine lovers. Try an espresso, craft tea, or breakfast burrito, then camp out in the sun-filled atrium. Drinks and eats are mostly $3–$8.
- Barriques (1825 Monroe St.): Craving cozy nooks and pour-over perfection? Barriques partners Robertson Bakery croissants with strong, locally roasted coffee and wine for later in the day. Expect $2–$4 for bakery, $3–$7 for drinks.
Food Trucks & Seasonal Flavors
While Regent’s food trucks roam mostly with the seasons, you’ll often spot them clustered at special events in Vilas Park or parking on game days near Camp Randall. Here are a few to keep on your radar:
- El Grito Taqueria: Known for inventive tacos, house salsas, and Mexican sodas—seek them out at Vilas Park events or Monroe Street festivals.
- Cali Fresh: Grilled burritos and pressed sandwiches satisfy the lunch crowd, especially during the bustling Farmer’s Market at Edgewood on Saturdays.
Neighborhood Food Traditions
Regent’s culinary calendar isn’t complete without a few traditions:
- Badger Game Day Eats: On football Saturdays, Monroe and Regent Streets fill with the scent of brats grilling, popcorn popping, and deep-fried treats. It’s not an official “restaurant,” but tailgate food is truly part of the Regent food fabric.
- Monroe Street Festival: This fall festival brings out food vendors, pop-ups, and special menu items from all the local favorites, making it a can’t-miss day for snackers and sippers.
Why Regent’s Food Scene Rocks
Regent’s food scene is more than diverse—it’s delightfully local. Small, independent businesses put their hearts into every sandwich, scoop, and slice. Crowds are a friendly mix, and you’re as likely to chat with a chef as you are to bump shoulders with your neighbor. The cluster of crave-worthy eateries along Monroe makes Regent perfect for a walking food crawl—coffee in hand, donut in bag, and dinner plans at sunset.
Whether you’re a longtime Madisonian or just passing through, show up hungry and let Regent show you her tastiest side.