Date Archives: January 2022

We can all agree that Wisconsin knows how to do cheese. So, are you looking for that signature squeak? Or recommendations on the best dipping sauces? Read below to add some flavor and fun to your day with cheese curds from these must-try Dane County hotspots.

• Great Dane Pub & Brewing - 123 E. Doty St., Madison, WI 53703
  College buddies Eliot Butler and Rob LoBreglio were ahead of the craft beer curve when they opened Great Dane Pub & Brewing in the mid-90s. More than a quarter-century later, people around Madison are still enjoying the casual atmosphere and quality brews. Great Dane's Old Glory cheese curds are coated in batter, infused with their American Pale Ale and served with a side of roasted Hatch chili ranch for dipping. Hours are 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily except Friday and Saturday when doors are open until 1 a.m.
  
  
• Babcock Dairy Store - 1605 Linden Dr., Madison, WI 53706
  Cheese and ice cream from Babcock Dairy Store are a staple of life at UW-Madison. Fortunately, the shop's delicious products are available to everyone. In addition to 23 flavors of cheese, the store offers freshly-made breakfast and lunch sandwiches for curbside pickup. All proceeds go toward the UW's Food Science Department. Babcock Dairy Store is open weekdays from 7:30 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. and weekends from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.
  
  
• The Old Fashioned - 27 North Pinckney St., Madison, WI 53703
  This might go without saying, but you haven't lived your best Wisconsin life if you haven't had cheese curds at the Old Fashioned. Want to enjoy your cheese curds with a side of stunning views of the Madison area? This is your place! Plus, there are plenty of dipping sauces for you to pair with their delicious beer-battered cheese curds. Stop by between  4 - 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Or visit on the weekend when their hours are 11 a.m. - 9 p.m on Friday and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday.
  
  
• Wisconsin Cheese Mart - 119 State St., Madison, WI 53703
  In 1938, Wisconsin Cheese Mart was a quaint little shop on Old World Third Street, in Milwaukee. What's not to love about their mission: "To celebrate the cheesemakers' craft, showcase their hard work and innovation, and serve cheese fanatics everywhere the best of what Wisconsin has to offer." Cheese curds are available in yellow Cheddar, white Cheddar, and combo packs and shipping is an option. Hours are 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Thursday and Friday and 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
  
  
• Fromagination - 14 W. Mifflin St., Suite 212, Madison, WI 53703
  Fromagination's name is a play on "Fromage," which is the French word for cheese. This serves as a nod to the artisan nature of cheese-making in Wisconsin and an appreciation of all the people involved. Their Cedar Grove cheese curds come in original Cheddar flavor or spiced up with garlic and dill. You can also purchase a bag of cheese curd batter mix or receive one free with four bags of cheese curds. Hours are 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

Want to learn more about the benefits of living in Dane County or Madison area homes for sale? Contact us and talk to an expert on both the local real estate market and how to make the most of life in Wisconsin.

Monroe Street is one of Madison's most charming destinations. Nestled in the shadow of legendary venues like Camp Randall Stadium and the UW Field House, Monroe Street has established its own identity through the unique shopping and dining experiences it offers. Nearby residents walk from shop to shop, stop for a warm beverage at a cafe or grab a bite at a one-of-a-kind restaurant. 

If you haven't attended one of the First Fridays on Monroe Street events, now is the time.

We want to help you plan ahead with these First Fridays on Monroe details.

First Fridays on Monroe Street

Location: 1400 – 3600 Monroe St., Madison, WI 53711

Time: First Friday of Every Month*, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM
(*Starting again in February 2022)

Admission: Free

• Extended Shopping Hours at Your Favorite Boutique Shops
  During First Fridays, many Monroe Street shops will have extended hours that make it easy to explore these wonderful small businesses. If you've been wanting to check out some of these spots but can't make it during the usual business hours, First Fridays are the perfect time to visit Monroe Street.
  
  
• Delicious Dining at Monroe Street Destinations
  Monroe Street is also home to some of the best restaurants near Madison homes for sale, so it's easy to refuel with some fantastic food in between stops. Whether you're grabbing a sweet treat at Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream, enjoying a great cup of coffee at Crescendo Espresso Bar, settling in for a delicious meal at Marie's Soul Food, or grabbing a drink at the Laurel Tavern, you'll love the variety and charm of the dining destinations on Monroe Street. Be sure to check the menus for specials!
  
  
• Live Music and Pop-Up Shops
  Live outdoor performances are also part of some First Fridays, along with unique pop-up shops that aren't available at any other time. You never know what you might find on First Fridays, which is part of the fun.
  
  
• Something New Every First Friday
  No two First Fridays celebrations are the same. Different shops and restaurants participate every month, so there's always something new to see. Mix in the live performances, pop-up shops, and other fun surprises and it's easy to see why so many people return for every First Friday on Monroe Street.
  
  
• More Events to Enjoy on Monroe Street All Year Long
  Along with First Fridays, Monroe Street offers a variety of other festive events throughout the year. Holiday Glow on Monroe is a must-see during the holiday season, with carolers, great shopping, and live holiday music. The Monroe Street Festival happens every summer, with live music, fun, educational classes, fabulous food, and plenty of kid-friendly attractions. No matter the season, there's always something to see on Monroe Street.

Searching for a home that makes it easy to visit and enjoy Monroe Street? Let our local real estate team help. Contact us to buy and sell homes in the Madison, WI area.