- Attraction: Off Broadway Drafthouse
- Location: 5404 Raywood Rd, Madison, WI 53713
- Industry: Restaurant
- Website: https://offbroadwaydrafthouse.com/
Beyond Madison’s bustling downtown scene lies a genuine neighborhood treasure that transforms an ordinary Tuesday into something memorable.
Off Broadway Drafthouse occupies a building steeped in nearly a century of Madison history, evolving from a 1920s speakeasy to a jazz club, then a dive bar, before becoming today’s acclaimed craft beer destination.
You’ll discover this isn’t your typical sports bar experience – it’s where thoughtfully sourced local ingredients meet an expertly curated selection of 24 rotating craft beers in a space that honors both Wisconsin tradition and modern culinary innovation.
The Waunona neighborhood location might seem tucked away, but that’s precisely what makes this place special. You’re stepping into a community gathering spot where locals have been creating memories for generations, now enhanced with contemporary touches that elevate every aspect of your dining experience.
Menu Highlights That Keep People Coming Back
Friday Fish Fry Excellence: You’ll understand why this ranks among Madison’s best fish fries the moment your plate arrives. Choose from perfectly prepared cod, perch, bluegill, or splurge for the pan-seared walleye. The coating achieves that coveted crispy-yet-light texture, while the fish inside remains flaky and moist. The traditional Wisconsin sides complete the experience authentically.
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Keep Exploring →Signature Chicken Wings: These aren’t ordinary bar wings – they earned Off Broadway a 2024 People’s Choice Award for best chicken wings in Madison. The dry rub creates an addictive crunch while maintaining juicy meat underneath. You’ll want to order extra because sharing becomes impossible once you taste them.
Craft Burger Creations: The Muenster & Fried Pickle Burger showcases their commitment to creative combinations that actually work. Made with grass-fed beef from local Riemer Family Farms, you get that distinctive Wisconsin cheese flavor complemented by tangy pickles and chipotle aioli on fresh brioche.
Frites-Style French Fries: These aren’t standard restaurant fries – they’re twice-fried to achieve the perfect balance of crispy exterior and fluffy interior. Served with roasted garlic aioli, they’re so exceptional that food critics specifically recommend never skipping them.
Weekend Brunch Standouts: The French toast transforms Stalzy’s thick-cut bread into something magical, topped with pastry cream, maple syrup, and fresh berries. The “Cro Mag” omelet incorporates roasted potatoes directly into the eggs alongside Muenster cheese and local bacon.
Seasonal BBQ Ribs: Available Saturday and Sunday, these ribs showcase the kitchen’s smoking technique. The meat falls off the bone while maintaining enough texture to satisfy, complemented by their house-made barbecue sauce.
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Rotating Tap Selection: The 24 taps feature a constantly changing lineup that balances local Wisconsin breweries with carefully selected out-of-state options. You might find O’so Brewery’s creatively named brews alongside Founders’ classics, ensuring both adventurous and traditional beer drinkers discover something perfect.
Historic Interior Design: The space beautifully preserves its history through salvaged barn wood and floor-to-ceiling black and white photographs from the Wisconsin Historical Society. These images showcase the area’s past, including when it was an airfield and the building served as the Airway Tavern.
Garden Patio Experience: The outdoor seating area feels like a secret garden, complete with flower beds and vegetable gardens that actually supply herbs and produce for the kitchen. The four-season enclosed porch extends your outdoor dining opportunities year-round.
Industrial-Modern Blend: Inside, you’ll appreciate the thoughtful balance of warm lighting, comfortable seating arrangements, and industrial elements that create an inviting atmosphere without feeling pretentious.
Other Considerations
Pricing Reality: You’ll find this operates more like an upscale gastropub than a traditional Wisconsin tavern, which means slightly higher prices than neighborhood dive bars. However, the quality of ingredients, preparation, and beer selection justifies the premium – think $10-15 for most entrees and appetizers.
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Keep Exploring →Parking Challenges: The popularity creates parking competition, especially during peak hours and Friday fish fry nights. Plan to arrive early or consider street parking nearby when the lot fills up.
Family-Friendly Environment: Despite being beer-focused, you’ll find a thoughtful kids’ menu that goes beyond typical chicken fingers, making it suitable for family dining.
Best Visit Times: Weeknight dinners offer a more relaxed experience, while Friday fish fry brings the authentic Wisconsin tavern energy. Weekend brunch provides a completely different but equally appealing atmosphere.
Award Recognition: The 2024 People’s Choice Awards recognized them for best happy hour, best waitstaff, and best chicken wings, reflecting consistent quality across multiple aspects of the experience.
Local Sourcing Commitment: You’re supporting a restaurant that prioritizes Wisconsin farmers and producers, from their beef to seasonal vegetables grown on-site.
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📍 5404 Raywood Rd, Madison, WI 53713
