Welcome to the curd-a-riffic world of cheese curds in Madison, Wisconsin, where the battle for the title of the ultimate cheese curd is hotter than the frying oil at a local pub! With so many contenders boasting their unique twists on this classic snack, the quest for the perfect curds takes us on a tantalizing journey through Madison’s top eateries.
The Old Fashioned: Voted Wisconsin’s Best
At The Old Fashioned, it’s all about tradition. Their house-made fresh Wisconsin beer-battered cheese curds are lightly battered and crisped to golden brown perfection. No wonder they’ve clinched the title of Wisconsin’s Best Cheese Curds! The crispy exterior gives way to gooey, melted cheese, a delightful symphony of flavors that keeps patrons coming back for more.
Thirsty Goat: Hand-Breaded Delight
The Thirsty Goat serves up a hefty portion of hand-breaded fried curds that are a crunchy delight. Served with their house-made ranch, these curds boast a light crust and a cajun sauce that elevates the flavor profile. Feeling adventurous? Try them atop a burger for a curd-a-riffic twist on a classic dish!
Graze: Beer Batter Bliss
Graze brings its own take on the classic cheese curds with a beer batter that hits just the right notes. Paired with Hook’s Cheese Curds and buttermilk ranch, these curds harmonize crispiness and gooey goodness. The secret? Good sauce and quality cheese!
Curd Girl: The Award-Winning Sensation
Curd Girl, the reigning champ of the Taste of Madison awards for 2022 and 2023, offers curds that are more than just a snack – they’re an experience! Available most Saturdays at the Madison Farmers Market (America’s largest producers-only farmers’ market), these curds come with a tantalizing choice of homemade sauces, making each bite a flavorful adventure.
Merchant: Buttermilk Batter Magic
Merchant’s fried cheese curds are a testament to the wonders of buttermilk batter. Served with a delectable duo of ranch and hot honey, these curds are a balance of crispy exterior and creamy interior, leaving taste buds dancing in delight.
Our Favorite Curds: The Tipsy Cow
Last but certainly not least, The Tipsy Cow brings local flair with their fried cheese curds. As a unique twist, they also offer local goat cheese curds beer battered with Spotted Cow beer, which really stole the show for us! Served with ranch dressing, these curds are a testament to the local flavors that make Madison’s culinary scene so vibrant.
Wrapping Up The Madison Cheese Curd Showdown
Choosing the ultimate champion in a city brimming with cheese curd excellence is a task that even the most seasoned foodie might find challenging. Whether you prefer beer-battered, buttermilk battered, hand-breaded, or with a unique twist, Madison, WI, offers a curd for every palate…even for those who are lactose-intolerant (we’re looking at you Tipsy Cow with your Goat Cheese Curds!).
Grab your appetite and embark on your own cheesy adventure through this curd-a-riffic city! Some people take their cheese curds seriously, so if you think we’ve missed something, please let us know in the comments!
More From Coleman Concierge:
Here’s a hot take – the Madison, Wisconsin restaurant scene goes way beyond cheese curds. Let’s start with the farm-to-table possibilities when you’re in the middle of the heartland with the nation’s largest producer-only Farmers Market. Throw in some international flair from being one of the ten most educated cities in the US and its proximity to Chicago (America’s third largest city). And finish it off with a good beer and some cheese curds, because – On, Wisconsin!
14 Madison Wisconsin Restaurants So Good You’ll Want to Move There!
Hi! We are Jenn and Ed Coleman aka Coleman Concierge. In a nutshell, we are a Huntsville-based Gen X couple sharing our stories of amazing adventures through activity-driven transformational and experiential travel.
