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The Coopers Tavern

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An upscale Irish tavern on Capitol Square, known for its vast beer selection, creative pub fare, and welcoming atmosphere.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wed/Fri 18-21h

Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

CrowdLow
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The Coopers Tavern

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An upscale Irish tavern on Capitol Square, known for its vast beer selection, creative pub fare, and welcoming atmosphere.

"From famous cheese curds to a world-class beer list, Coopers Tavern is a must-visit for foodies and beer lovers. TikTok"

TIP

Beat the Crowds

Visit during off-peak hours to avoid long waits and enjoy a more relaxed dining experience.

Book for Special Occasions

Consider making reservations for events like Valentine's Day or other celebrations.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Closed·Opens Friday 11AM

Cuisine

Gastropub / Irish

Price

Mid-range

Phone

(608) 256-1600

Address

20 W Mifflin St, Madison, WI 53703, USA

Insta-Factor

High

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Famous Cheese Curds

Famous Cheese Curds

Golden fried cheese curds, a must-try starter that locals rave about and even Travis Kelce has endorsed.

TikTok
TikTokGoogle Review
Extensive Beer Selection

Extensive Beer Selection

Boasting over 20 beers on tap and a vast international craft beer list, this is a paradise for beer enthusiasts. [^M1]

The 10 Best Restaurants In Madison, Wisconsin
Upscale Pub Fare with a Twist

Upscale Pub Fare with a Twist

Enjoy creative takes on classic dishes like pork belly mac 'n' cheese and duck confit cavatelli, perfect for a memorable meal. [^M3]

The Top Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Madison, WIGoogle Review
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Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

@Travis Kelce come check out these curds. 🧀 📍 Coopers Tavern, Butterbird, Lola’s, The Audrey, Lucille, The Old Fashioned #cheeecurds #cheese #food #madisonwisconsin #wisconsin
@destinationmadison
59 likes • 2.6K views

Beat the Crowds

Visit during off-peak hours to avoid long waits and enjoy a more relaxed dining experience.

Book for Special Occasions

Consider making reservations for events like Valentine's Day or other celebrations.

Dog-Friendly Patio

Bring your furry friends along to enjoy the welcoming and spacious dog-friendly patio.

Don't Miss Signature Items

Be sure to try the du jour soup and Reuben sandwich, often highlighted in articles.

Tips

from all over the internet

Beat the Crowds

Visit during off-peak hours to avoid long waits and enjoy a more relaxed dining experience.

Book for Special Occasions

Consider making reservations for events like Valentine's Day or other celebrations.

Dog-Friendly Patio

Bring your furry friends along to enjoy the welcoming and spacious dog-friendly patio.

Don't Miss Signature Items

Be sure to try the du jour soup and Reuben sandwich, often highlighted in articles.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Coopers Tavern is lauded for its vibrant atmosphere, excellent beer selection, and standout starters like cheese curds. While many praise the friendly and attentive service, some diners have found certain dishes to be bland or disappointing. Parking can be a bit tricky, but the overall experience, especially with its Capitol Square views, is often described as great. Reddit+4

"Very interesting and dynamic menu that is not overwhelming. Pretty legit tap list for any passionate beer nerd. Every dish going out looked stunning."

Chad Young

"A surprising improvement! Have dined here before, always like the food, but service did not impress.
Tonight was the exception. Our server (Kylie I believe) was friendly, timely and relaxing.
Food runners did a great job as well, no long wait times and everyone seemed polite and helpful. Thank you! Will be back again soon. 👍🏼"

Amber Kennedy

"Great tavern with a nice menu and draft beer selection.

We went on the weekend and brunch menu was in effect, so I tried the breakfast burrito. It was delicious with just the right amount of cheese topping. I did think halfway thru that maybe having the cheese topping dip versus smothered would make it easier to eat it as a handheld, but was great regardless.

Their kids menu was also a good variety and very affordable versus other nearby places.

Our server was very friendly and prompt. I’d definitely return."

Mike Varga

What People Like

Amazing cheese curds
Extensive craft beer list
Friendly and attentive service

What People Dislike

Some dishes lack flavor
Poutine was disappointing
Parking can be difficult

Frequently Asked Questions

The cheese curds are a highly recommended starter, and many enjoy the variety of burgers and sandwiches.

TikTokGoogle Review

Yes, The Coopers Tavern has a patio where dogs are welcomed.

The Top Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Madison, WI

While they don't normally accept reservations, they may hold seats for special occasions like Valentine's Day.

Valentine's Day in Madison: 16 spots to dine with your sweetie | Food & Drink

They offer a wide variety of beers, including over 20 on tap and an extensive international craft beer list.

The 10 Best Restaurants In Madison, WisconsinGoogle Review+1

Parking can be a bit tricky, especially if you're driving. Consider walking if possible.

Google Review

Yes, the beet and goat cheese sandwich is a unique and delicious vegetarian option.

Google Review+1

Mentioned in

Featured in these publications

The Culture Trip

The 10 Best Restaurants In Madison, Wisconsin

The Coopers Tavern is the local place to watch any sport or entertainment events, accompanied with either a local or international beer. The bar’s extensive imported craft beer list makes it the only spot in Madison to offer such variety. Located across the street from the Capitoll, the Coopers Tavern is also known for its menu, which includes much-vaunted du jour soup and the Reuben sandwich.

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liveatsunvalley.com

Guide to the Best Bars in Madison, Wisconsin

You're sure to have a good time when you visit Coopers Tavern and Taproom. Some of the most popular items on the menu include the MacDoogle Burger, which as lettuce, onions, American cheese, sweet pickles, and a special sauce on it, and the Nashville Chicken Sandwich, which has lettuce , tomato, and sweet pickles on it. The drinks are great at Coopers Tavern—in particular, you should try out the Toasted Pina Colada, the Patio Crusher, the Spicy Pineapple Margarita, and the Smoked Old Fashion.

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localpetcare.com

The Top Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Madison, WI

The Coopers Tavern on the Capitol Square boasts a patio where dogs are not just allowed but welcomed with open arms. This gastropub specializes in craft beers and hearty, upscale pub fare. Their unique twist on classic dishes, like the bourbon-glazed pork belly or the stout-braised beef short ribs, makes each meal memorable.

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The Cap Times

Valentine's Day in Madison: 16 spots to dine with your sweetie | Food & Drink

Though it doesn’t normally accept reservations, The Coopers Tavern will hold your seat at its Valentine’s Day celebration Feb. 13-15. The speciality menu is available each of those nights from 5-10 p.m. It includes a fig and prosciutto salad, duck confit cavatelli and tiramisu for two among other delicious options.

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Travel Squire

A Great Foodie Destination in Madison, Wisconsin

At Cooper’s Tavern I salivated over their outstanding Canadian and European inspired entrees with a Wisconsin twist. Think Poutine, Irish rashers, bangers, black and white pudding and Dubliner cheddar mac and cheese all of which paired wonderfully with their over 200 beers, pilsners, ales, wines and scotches.

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Obligona

The Best Bars in Madison, WI

Another good spot to unwind in the Madison area when you’re not at your best is The Coopers Tavern. With dim lighting, light music, and friendly bartenders who have heard it all, it’s the perfect quiet corner to grab a pint and sort out your problems. Plus, they have great food and an impressive beer menu.

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Destination Madison

Your Guide to Streateries & Outdoor Dining in Madison, WI

This European neighborhood style tavern is right on the Capitol Square and offers over 20 beers on tap, over 130 variations of whiskeys, and a tasty food menu including burgers, sandwiches, salads and comforting shareables. Enjoy the beautiful Capitol Building while sipping on a pint at The Coopers Tavern.

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TravelWisconsin

9 Spots for a Fish Fry in Madison,WI

Coopers Tavern perfectly captures both the bustling energy of downtown Madison and a laid-back and cozy pub – and they make a mean fish fry, too. Enjoy the fish and chips (French fries) and pair with a beer – there are 28 on draft and a great selection of bottles from around the world.

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Restaurant Clicks

11 Best Brunch Spots in Madison, WI

20 W Mifflin St, Madison, WI 53703Phone: 608-256-1600 Visit Website. A post shared by The Coopers Tavern (@thecooperstavern). From the same restaurant group as Bassett Street Brunch Club, The Coopers Tavern is a casual gastropub in Mansion Hill, overlooking the state Capitol.

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Family Destinations Guide

15 Best Restaurants in Madison, WI for 2025 (Top Eats!)

20 W Mifflin StMadison, WI 53703(608) 256-1600 Visit Website See Menu Open in Google Maps. Established in 2010, The Coopers Tavern is a cozy bar in Madison offering a variety of beers, whiskeys, and hearty dishes in a European-style atmosphere.

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Town & Tourist

20 Best Restaurants in Madison, WI

For traditional Irish, Coopers Tavern offers everything from Irish beer to Irish fare. It’s an upscale tavern-style establishment with warm wooden tables for two and a beautiful bar. They also have 28 craft beers on tap if you’re interested.

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Stacker

Highest-rated Brunch Restaurants in Madison, According to Tripadvisor

- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (422 reviews)- Detailed ratings: Food (4.0/5), Service (4.0/5), Value (4.0/5), Atmosphere (4.0/5)- Type of cuisine: American, Bar- Price: $$ - $$$- Address: 20 W Mifflin St, Madison, WI 53703-2523- Read more on Tripadvisor

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visitmadison.com

Fantastic Fish Fry Itinerary: Our Best Bets

You'll find fish and chips served Irish style at The Coopers Tavern on the Capitol Square. The Essen Haus German restaurant serves all you can eat fish two nights a week and adds a little oomph with live oompah music played nightly.

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Our Madison Life

BEST BRUNCH PLACES IN MADISON WI

It’s located right on the square in downtown Madison with a view of the capital from your table!. The brunch options change, and we’ve never been disappointed!. Farm to table type options will make the whole group happy!

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city-data.com

Craft Beer Bars in Greater Madison - Wisconsin (WI) - Page 2

Lately, I've been a bit disappointed in the selection, but if you want a beer and suggest it, they'll try to get it on tap. Again, they're really into the Belgians and craft ales, so you simply can't go wrong here!

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tigerdroppings.com

Madison, WI Food recommendations? | Travel

Few ideas: Tipsy Cow, Settle Down Tavern, Coopers Tavern, The Old Fashioned, Mickey's Tavern, Weary Traveler, Grampa's Pizzeria, Paul's Pel'meni, and Dotty Dumpling's

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The Bozho

Where to eat Madison's unique cheese curd creations

The Coopers Tavern: Poutine here is kept simple and classic: fries, curds, and beef gravy. If all the components are done well, you don’t need extra meat on top.

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reddit

Best romantic restaurants in madison? : madisonwi

Still good for date night: Coopers, Lombardinos, Pasture & Plenty, Harvest, Natt Spil, Cafe Porta Alba, Free House Pub, Tutto Pasta

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A Madison Wisconsin Bed And Breakfast

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Local happy hour deals to quench your thirst in Madison, WI

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The Coopers Tavern (2026) – Best of TikTok, Instagram & Reddit Food Guide