Best Cheese Curds in Madison, WI | Tipsy Cow

For over ten years, Tipsy Cow has been one of our go-to spots for traditional Wisconsin tavern food right on Capitol Square in downtown Madison. Located at 102 King Street, this Wisconsin tavern delivers exactly what locals and visitors want: quality cheese curds, solid burgers, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of downtown.

We've made many visits over the years, and Tipsy Cow has earned its place as a Madison staple.

Quick Facts

📍 Location: 102 King St, Madison, WI 53703

⏰ Hours: Monday - Wednesday 11AM - 12AM | Thursday 11AM - 2AM | Friday - Saturday 11AM - 2:30AM | Closed Sunday

💵 Price Range: $10-18 for entrees

🚗 Parking: Street parking (metered and free), nearby parking ramps

📱 Website: https://www.tipsycowmadison.com

☎️ Phone: (608) 287-1455

🌟 Best For: Wisconsin tavern fare, cheese curds, outdoor patio, downtown location

First Impressions & Location

Tipsy Cow sits right on King Street in the heart of downtown Madison, steps from Capitol Square. The location is unbeatable for anyone exploring downtown or looking for a convenient spot before or after events.

Street parking is available, both metered and free depending on location and time. There are also several parking ramps around the downtown area for easy access.

The restaurant features cow-themed decor throughout, giving it that fun Wisconsin tavern personality that makes both locals and visitors feel at home. It's the kind of place that doesn't take itself too seriously while taking the food seriously.

The Atmosphere & Popularity

Nights and weekends are busy, so plan to wait during peak times. The popularity speaks to how well Tipsy Cow has connected with the Madison community. Tipsy Cow uses an automated waitlist system that sends a link to your phone, allowing you to track your place in line rather than standing around the entrance. It's a smart system that lets you grab a drink nearby or explore while you wait.

The energy inside matches the downtown location. It's lively without being overwhelming, with that classic Wisconsin tavern vibe that makes it perfect for gathering with friends or family.

The Food: What We've Ordered Over the Years

Over our many visits to Tipsy Cow, we've worked through a good portion of the menu. During our most recent visit in February, we ordered two rounds of wings in BBQ and Memphis Dry Rub flavors, Goat Cheese Curds, and a Steakhouse Burger.

The Goat Cheese Curds were awesome, especially with the sauce they're served with. These curds are a standout. Quality Wisconsin cheese, properly fried, with a signature sauce that elevates them beyond standard bar fare. If you're visiting Tipsy Cow, the goat cheese curds are a must-order. They exemplify what makes Wisconsin tavern food special when done right.

The wings came in BBQ and Memphis Dry Rub. Solid options for wing lovers, and the variety of flavors gives you choices beyond the standard buffalo.

The Steakhouse Burger showcases Tipsy Cow's commitment to using quality ingredients. Over the years, we've tried many things off the menu and found them consistently good and flavorful.

What Makes Tipsy Cow Special

Tipsy Cow specializes in Wisconsin tavern fare using high-quality local ingredients. Almost everything comes from around Wisconsin, including rolls from Clasen's Bakery, bacon from Nueske's, and meat from Knoche's Butcher Shop. This commitment to local sourcing sets them apart and supports Wisconsin producers.

The menu hits all the Wisconsin classics: cheese curds (both traditional white cheddar and goat cheese varieties), Friday fish fry with cod and walleye, burgers, wings, and Wisconsin-focused entrees. The Friday fish fry is particularly popular, with the cod at $10 being considered a steal by regulars.

The ever-changing craft beer selection features breweries from around the country, with Wisconsin beers prominently featured. For Wisconsin beer lovers, Tipsy Cow delivers with options like Spotted Cow on tap and rotating selections.

The location on Capitol Square makes it a natural gathering spot for locals and a convenient stop for visitors exploring downtown Madison. The outdoor patio is especially popular during warmer months, offering prime people-watching along King Street.

Ten Years of Visits

We've been coming to Tipsy Cow for over ten years, though our most recent visit was our first in approximately five years. What brings us back? Consistently good food, a great downtown location, and that Wisconsin tavern atmosphere that makes it feel welcoming whether you're a regular or a first-timer.

The service over the years has been energetic and friendly, the kind that makes you feel like part of the Tipsy Cow family. The food has been properly cooked and flavorful, delivering on the promise of quality Wisconsin tavern fare.

The Verdict: Is Tipsy Cow Worth It?

Yes, highly recommended. After ten years of visits, Tipsy Cow has earned its reputation as a downtown Madison staple. The goat cheese curds alone are worth the trip, and the commitment to local Wisconsin ingredients shows in the quality of the food.

The prime Capitol Square location, lively atmosphere, and solid Wisconsin tavern menu make it a natural choice for both locals and visitors. It's the kind of place that delivers what you expect from Wisconsin: good food, friendly service, and a welcoming environment.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

🅿️ Parking & Access: Street parking available with both metered and free options depending on time and location. Several parking ramps nearby provide alternatives. The downtown location is easily walkable from many Madison hotels and attractions.

⏱️ Best time to visit: Nights and weekends get very busy, so plan for waits during peak times. The automated waitlist system lets you track your position via text, which is convenient. Weekday lunches tend to be less crowded if you prefer a more relaxed experience.

💡 Insider tips: The goat cheese curds are a must-order. The Friday fish fry is extremely popular and offers great value. The outdoor patio is prime real estate during good weather for people-watching on King Street. During busy times, the waitlist system lets you explore downtown while you wait.

♿ Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible with level entry from King Street.

👥 Good for groups?: Yes, with booth and table seating that accommodates various party sizes. The lively tavern atmosphere works well for casual group gatherings, whether you're locals meeting up or visitors exploring Madison together.

📶 Dining style: Traditional Wisconsin tavern with table service. The cow-themed decor and downtown location create a fun, casual atmosphere that's quintessentially Madison.

Final Thoughts

Tipsy Cow has been a Madison institution for years, serving Wisconsin tavern fare with local ingredients in a prime Capitol Square location. Over the years we have created plenty of good memories and satisfied appetites.

The goat cheese curds with their signature sauce remain a standout. The commitment to sourcing from Wisconsin producers like Clasen's Bakery, Nueske's, and Knoche's Butcher Shop shows a dedication to quality and supporting local businesses. The downtown location makes it convenient whether you're a local looking for a reliable spot or a visitor exploring Capitol Square.

If you're in Madison and looking for Wisconsin tavern fare in a lively downtown setting, Tipsy Cow delivers. The popularity is well-earned, the food represents Wisconsin well, and after all these years, we're still coming back. That consistency speaks volumes.

Looking for more Madison restaurant reviews? Check out my complete dining guide to downtown Madison.

I paid for this meal myself. All opinions are my own.

Last updated: November 2025

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