Butterbird, I'm honestly offended we found you this late into our Madison trip. This place was an absolute 10/10 across the board! Vibes? immaculate. Service? incredible. Food? life-changing fried chicken, cheese curds, and cocktails that I'm still not over. Environment? somehow cozy and cool at the same time. This is the kind of place that feels way too unique to ever become a chain... which is devastating news because I desperately wish there was one in Kansas City. And honestly, that's probably why it's so special. It feels deeply Madison in the best way- intentional, high quality, and focused on doing their thing really, really well. Also, shoutout to Ian, the manager, who was amazing and made an already great experience even better with trinkets! Anyway, if you need me, I'll be emotionally processing the fact that we only got to eat here once. Can't wait to come back! read more

Butterbird - Chicken Shop Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

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I'd been dying to try Butterbird since they opened, and finally ordered takeout with some co-workers (so I can't speak to the dine-in experience). Overall, nothing to write home about, but nothing bad. I ordered the Butterbird Classic (fried chicken sandwich) but removed the pickles. I got the sauce on the side. I'd been worried the lettuce would overtake the chicken, but it was a very small amount of lettuce that really had no impact either way on the sandwich. The chicken thigh was a decent size and cooked very nicely. There wasn't much to it, it didn't really have much flavor, but again it wasn't bad at all. I tried one bite without the sauce, then added a small amount of sauce. It's got a dill vibe going on which I dislike, so I did not add any more, but the sauce did help with some flavor. My co-worker got her sandwich with the sauce on it, and it was also a very small amount of sauce. On the side, I got way more sauce and gave the rest of mine to her. She used almost all of it.   I also got the French fries with my order. They were good fries where I did not feel any need to use ketchup with them. We all commented that they reminded of us McDonald's fries, but obviously a little bit more gourmet. Another coworker got the coleslaw instead of fries, and said that it was good but way less substantial than the fries. So, the food didn't live up to the hype, and I'm not sure I'd spend the money again, but I do really want to try their Old Fashioned on Tap... so I might have to go visit in person when I'm not working and get another order. read more

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I ordered a 2pc spicy chicken and a sprite. This was $22 and I felt disappointed to see such a tiny cup of sprite and chicken that wasn't even spicy. I think this spicy problem could be fixed if a rub of some sort was used; but, Butterbird puts a chili oil on top instead of seasoning. The only positive thing about this dining experience was the atmosphere of the restaurant- it's vintage and aesthetically cool. But with the small size and high price I was unimpressed. read more

Butterbird - 2 pc spicy chicken fried. - Chicken Shop Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

Cute place! Staff is very helpful and friendly. The food was delicious. Chicken is top notch!

After a few visits to Madison, I finally tried Butterbird and what a treat it turned out to be! Located a few blocks from campus, Butterbird is a retro-styled spot slinging up all things chicken...and cheese curd! The process is walk-in, walk-up, order, take a number and then head to the table of your choosing. Once done, leave everything, as they will clear your table. Its efficient and was an easy process from start to finish. We walked in, scoped a menu and then ordered a couple of chicken sandwiches along with an order of cheese curds. I got the standard chicken sandwich which was solid, and my buddy got the Caesar sandwich, and he enjoyed it quite a bit. The curds were more cheese stick-style, but still tasty, however a bit salty on their own. Service was super friendly from entry to food delivery and to exit. The space is really cool, well laid out, copious seating inside and features a great enclosed outdoor space, which is where we sat. Overall, really enjoyed our visit to Butterbird and definitely recommend for those in the area of campus! read more

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I like this place, you come in and order at the counter, then you can pick up your water and condiments and sit. They deliver your meal to the table. It can get really busy. The bathrooms are quirky with a chicken and egg theme. Patio for nice weather season. Fried chicken related items (sandwiches, chicken strips) with fries and such on the side. Menu limited but well done for the fried chicken it is. This is not fine dining, and it isn't a health food joint, but it's a reliable and tasty place to get a comfort fried food meal and you can get cocktails and beers, read more

We stopped by Butterbird for takeout to give it a try. The chicken was very good, nice sized pieces with crispy and juicy food. Pickles were a pleasant addition but the coleslaw was bland. I will be back to dine in. read more

Butterbird - Chicken Shop Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

What an exciting chicken place! In a market oversaturated with fast food chicken options, this one is among the best! We waited in a long line that went surprisingly pretty fast. It was the night of a concert so there were extra visitors in town. The inside reminds me of an old subway or train station. Plenty of seating and well decorated! I had no idea they served alcohol or had weekly specials! As for the food WOW!! The highlight of the order was definitely the rotisserie chicken and Swiss melt. Whatever sauce they put on the sandwich is amazing. The fries were OK nothing special. The cheese, curds and mac & cheese were definitely top-tier. I highly suggest trying the lemonade was fresh squeezed, and the cookie ls and cream milkshake was perfect. Sadly the chicken sandwich wasn't my favorite. The batter was as delicious but the chicken had some gristly parts I didn't love. I'll be back to have more curds and that rotisserie chicken sandwich!!!! read more

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Ok as a vegetarian maybe I should have known this wasn't going to be a hit. But they had a lot of veg options on the menu and it gets a lot of hype. Ambiance: 5 stars Service 4.5 stars Food: 2.5 stars - fried tofu was a total miss - tasteless and floppy even with the pickles and sauce. Shake was just ok. Kale salad was lacking in anything but kale (not enough biscuit or cheese.) Coleslaw was watery and too tangy. Chicken from the meat eaters "wasn't as good as KFC" but prices were HIGH. Bbq sauce and honey mustard sauces were a highlight. read more

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We visited Butterworth during the summer and we were impressed by how cool and hip the place is. We tried the famous cheese curds and they did not disappoint. The bar was kind of empty, probably because the university was out for the summer, but we still have a great time and enjoyed our drinks and overall experience read more

Butterbird - Cheese curds - Chicken Shop Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

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This spot is great! We visited with a group at a somewhat random time and really enjoyed ourselves. We did have some timing hiccups with our ice cream at the end... they didn't have the flavors we ordered and it took probably 30 min to get the ice cream due to some issues... But aside from that, our meal was great! The chicken sandwiches were delicious. Not greasy and very tasty. Good sized chicken amounts and the buns were perfect, soft but not insignificant so they didn't fall apart while eating. The biscuits were also great - definitely worth it. We ended up going back for more food throughout our meal and aside from the ice cream hiccups, the food came swiftly and the staff was really nice (especially while we tried to figure out what we wanted in line!). Bathrooms (and the rest of the restaurant) were really clean! Very delicious, prices were good and the space is large enough to accommodate small-ish groups. Visit! You won't be disappointed! read more

My go to brunch spot. So many different options and I love the weekly brunch specials. The kale Caesar salad is my favorite, simple but so good. I tried the rolls for the first time and they were amazing also! Perfectly salty and soft with a nicely browned crust. The service and staff are amazing. So friendly and kind, you can tell they put so much thought into every aspect of the restaurant. We tried the Peep Marshmallow Milkshake special for Easter weekend!! So cute and creative! read more

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I timed my visit wrong as a game had let out. Butterbird was packed! If you can find a seat at the bar, you can order there. Otherwise order at the front counter, pay, take your number, & find a seat. Based on other reviews, I ordered the classic butterbird sandwich with a side of green garlic sauce and fries. I also ordered a side of broccoli salad. I'd suggest skipping the broccoli salad, it was ok not great. Full of raisins and limo (ie not crispy) diced apples with sauce. Flavorwise, it was tangy and may have had a little but of caraway seeds. The sandwich was super moist, crispy outside and fall apart tender inside. The flavor was good. Definitely check it out. They have 80's music playing and, when I was there, local sports on play. read more

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Lowkey saw a cockroach. Shakes were gas though. Food was okay, ranch was phenomenal. Decent place.

The chicken tenders at Butterbird are the best. They practically melt in your mouth. Fries are good. Friendly accommodating staff. Wanted to sit on the patio but it was closed for a private party. Darn! read more

such a fun place on regent st!! we loved the decor and that it's close to a lot of other cafes. We came for brunch on Sunday around 12:30 and it was pretty empty. The counter service was quick and they brought it right to us. We both got the chicken and waffles and it was so good! The chicken was really juicy and flavorful, and the sweet corn waffles gave it a unique flavor that really popped well with the chicken. We didn't notice before ordering that they had cold brew and ended up going elsewhere for coffee, but for future reference now we know read more

Butterbird - chicken and waffles - Chicken Shop Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

Food was amazing and restaurant was beautiful! Great date spot especially for their board games.

Tried the 2 piece meal (NC), the Butterbird Classic (me), Rotisserie Chicken & Swiss Melt (Blue). Tasty sandwiches, excellent fries. Coke Shop. Order at the counter, full bar available. Will go back! read more

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The inside ambiance is truly unmatched- old school diner vibes but with modern and updated bits. You walk up and place your order after walking in and are free to grab a seat wherever it's open (we went on a Wednesday afternoon- very much not peak hours) and they'll deliver your food to your table. We had the classic and fried chicken sandwiches with a side of cheese curds. The cheese curds were DELICIOUS! admittedly we haven't had the broadest list of curds just yet but would be willing to bet these stay on the list for us. They come with this dill like ranch and *chefs kiss* The chicken sandwiches were stellar and the fries were good. They are plain shoestring fries which can only be so good but yet they were. I'd give this place 4.5/5 stars and will definitely return! read more

If you're looking for a casual, super cool restaurant with delicious food, then look no further than Butterbird. You order at the front counter, grab a number, and find a table. You can fill your own water cup and they'll bring the food out to you. The environment is super casual and friendly, while still being very clean and sleek. We ordered the cheese curds and they were absolutely fantastic. I highly recommend Butterbird for either a quick stop (for cheese curds of course), or a full meal. The service was friendly and the whole experience was very nice. This place is definitely worth a visit! read more

Butterbird - Cheese curds - Chicken Shop Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

As a vegetarian I was not expecting to like/find anything worthwhile at Butterbird but wow was I wrong. They have tofu options for their entrees and have one of the best caesar salads in Madison in my opinion. The also have the best French fries ever! If you like thin/crispy French fries you'll love these. Highly recommend pairing them with the dilly ranch because it is herby and perfect. I also am obsessed with their shamrock shake which was minty and not too sweet (perfect). Service was quick and you can order at the counter or via the table QR code. They have tons of seating inside and a cute patio. Bonus points for the retro Photo Booth and overall retro vibe. I'm totally obsessed with this place and can't wait to eat here again. read more

Butterbird - Cesar salad with tofu, fries with dilly ranch, shamrock shake - Chicken Shop Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

Really solid! I liked the interior atmosphere, 10$ cocktails were heavy i was tipsy after half my margarita. We also got cheese curds which were amazing and the chicken in the sandwiches were cooked perfectly and nicely battered. Also cute photobooth in the back of the restaurant! Loved this read more

Butterbird - Spritz, margarita, honey bourbon - Chicken Shop Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

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The chicken is delicious! The sides are equally fresh and yummy, especially the crunchy, stretchy cheese curds. Service is great. Place is clean and fresh and awesome! read more

New holiday tradition unlocked. Peppermint shake was SO yummy!! Lots of delish chunks. read more

Butterbird - Peppermint shake - Chicken Shop Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

Whatever they put in their ranch is incredible, I would buy this by the bottle! I am a sucker for good fried chicken sandwiches and this one did not disappoint, true to the name it was buttery and the breading was perfect. Love the vibe inside too think classic diner vibes with tons of big screens and great beer on tap. I would love to come back for a Gameday to watch here. The staff is also super friendly at the counter and while bringing food out. read more

Butterbird - Spicy chicken sandwich, fries & spotted cow. Side of ranch - Chicken Shop Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

Very nice atmosphere, parking is very limited, although in the bicycle store next to it there are two spots to park with a Butterbird sign showing two spots. Food was pretty good. This is a pricey spot. I actually got the popcorn chicken off of the kids menu and that was fabulous and scrumptious (and a lot came with it) and I don't know why that is not on the main menu. The cheese curds are delicious as well. Picture shows a tray of 3 appetizers. The cheese dip was spicy and had pieces of buffalo chicken in it which made it challenging to eat with chips. The fountain drinks are free refills which is nice. Overall we would go back for the curds and popcorn chicken for sure!! read more

Butterbird - Signage - Chicken Shop Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

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This restaurant is such a vibe. The interior is very high class, but I love that it's actually a fast-casual style of ordering. I got the standard chicken sandwich with the pickles and dilly ranch. It was AMAZING. The chicken was crispy and fresh. One of the juiciest chicken sandwiches I've ever had. I had fries with mine, but next time I want to upgrade and try for a specialty side. Pricing was very fair! I will definitely return. Also a tip for you if you are driving- they have a parking lot! I missed it when I got there for the first time because it was just a fold out sign and it wasn't exactly next to the restaurant. There is plenty of parking in the street though. read more

Love the vibe in this place! So different and unique than any other restaurant in Madison. Think old school diner. All of the details are awesome, the restaurant is incredibly clean, and the service was great. They have lots of TVs, a great spot to watch a badger game. We stopped in for a late lunch so it wasn't busy. When you walk in you just order at the counter, take your number, and then find a place to sit. Our food came out within 5-10 minutes, super quick. I ordered the classic chicken sandwich with fries. I thought the fries were really good. I was expecting the best chicken sandwich and I wasn't very impressed. Flavorful but didn't taste like your standard chicken sandwich. Personally, I didn't love the dilly ranch on this type of sandwich and overall the sandwich was pretty rich. After our meal I ordered a dish of vanilla soft serve. It had an interesting flavor. I was expecting something like DQ but the flavor was definitely different. Overall great atmosphere and cool place but I wasn't super impressed by the food. read more

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My good friend and I love the energy and homey design features at Butterbird! The chicken was fried with incredible quality, so amazingly tender. Though our meeting was a bit short, our winter harvest bowls remained through our conversation and nurtured our gathering! This is such a wonderful place for a date, especially in the summer when the outdoor patio is open! One tradition that I love about Butterbird is the Photo Booth with print out images to let the moment last! There are also fish fries every Friday, and burgers are also available if beef is preferred. For dinner, I ordered an extended version of the Harvest Bowl with more portions of certain ingredients, and I am grateful for how everything came separately packaged so I could disperse it into my own bowl. Thank you so much for the excellent meal preparation and the care we received. This is truly such a special restaurant! I can't wait to come back with my family! read more

Butterbird - Winter harvest bowl and two piece meal with wing and breast - Chicken Shop Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

This is one of my favorite restaurants in Madison. The food and service are consistently great. Extra credit for the great interior design.

Too expensive and wasn't as goods as they made it out to be. Supposed to be then best chicken in Wisconsin. I think not!

i ordered a vanilla shake and they told me that they didnt have any of the stuff in stock, it was the only thing i ordered besides a diet coke. i was eating with my friends and one of the workers came up to me with a shake made from scratch highly highly recommend this place. amazing food, great atmosphere and amazing workers. THANK YOU IAN FOR THE EXTRA CUPCAKE MILKSHAKES!!! read more

Butterbird - vanilla CLASSIC SHAKES TO GO - Chicken Shop Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

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Ordered for them on delivery via their website. My order was missing sides and sauces. They have no phone number. Tried emailing them from the email address on their website but it does not exist. Such a shame, never ordering from them again read more

Such a great find, the space is so well designed and the atmosphere is like a modern diner. Our family had a great time, there's something for everyone with sports on TV and shakes! The menu is good, looking forward to catching a brunch sometime too. read more

Butterbird - Cool Decor - Chicken Shop Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

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It's taken me a while to review this place because I had to visit again to verify my thoughts. So here they are. This place has one of the best chicken sandwiches I have ever had. I am actually obsessed with it minus the cost. If you come here please get the classic chicken sandwich, with a side of green garlic sauce and hot honey. Add both to the sandwich after taking an initial bite the calibrate and you will NOT be sorry. A perfect explosion of flavor, so addicting and delicious, you'll be thinking and craving it for days or weeks to come. It will ruin all other chicken sandwiches for a matter of time. But what will bring you back to earth is the fact that this amazing sandwich is $15 as a base. Add those sauces, tax and tip and there's $20 lunch for you. I would say it's worth it, because... did you just read above but that $20 price tag is hard to swallow, especially because the fries are mid. That being said, if we look at this whole experience, the service is great, the location is top notch and the layout/decor makes you feel like you're at a retro home gym haha. It's a vibe and the fact that r they have ice cream and cocktails plus is on regent makes it a great initial spot to kickoff the weekend or a game day. I will say this place also gets super busy so don't be afraid to order ahead and take it Togo. Happy eating! read more

I was excited to eat at Butterbird because I've experienced excellent dining at the owner's other restaurant, The Havey House. Went early on a weeknight, knowing that parking would be tricky. Be prepared to walk a block or more, as Butterbird has no parking lot. The restaurant has a cool "diner" vibe, and I love classic diners. You order at the counter, and then your meal is delivered to you if you're eating in. Our meals came faster than expected. My classic sandwich was good, with a huge crispy and juicy chicken thigh. It came with lettuce, pickles and dilly ranch sauce. It was a tasty bite. I wished the soft roll was a bit sturdier, as it became messier and messier to eat. I made my sandwich a plate for $5.00 which added fries and coleslaw. The coleslaw and fries were just so-so. It didn't help that the fries weren't hot to begin with. My husband had a crispy thigh and leg. He liked them, but commented they were a bit greasy. He also thought the fries (comparable to McDonald's) were kind of blah. Would I go back? Yes, to try other dishes such as chicken tenders and soft serve. read more

Butterbird - Classic chicken sandwich plate - Chicken Shop Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

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Danny is awesome! It was our first time and he gave great recommendations, let us sample some draft cocktails, and was a was just a great guy! Banana pudding is a must. The classic is really good and they make great fried pickles (on Tuesdays) The place is spotless, and service is phenomenal. Danny, you made our day read more

Butterbird - Pineapple mojito, popcorn chicken, fried pickles, and a half eaten classic. - Chicken Shop Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

Second time there, both times it was a goat rodeo. Order process was crazy, no place to sit, ended up in back patio which was a sauna, food came out haphazardly with a 15 minute wait for the final 2 orders plus a bunch of extra orders that were screwed up. Food was fine but quite expensive for a red plastic basket. Both times were pretty much identical, not sure why I would put myself through that again. read more

I was greeted by a very friendly and welcoming FOH manager. I placed my order for a 2pc - leg and thigh - chicken snack with hot honey and a side of fries. I only waited around 5 minutes before my order arrived. The shoestring fries were perfectly cooked and crisp, some were lightly salted and some were missed by the salt shaker completely. The chicken did not look as appetizing. There were portions of both pieces with scorch marks. There were more scorch marks on the non-visible sides. The chicken skin was crisp but needed more seasoning, although the bitterness from the scorching may have just neutralized any seasoning flavor in the skin. The chicken in the leg was on the dry side (that's probably from over-cooking it), and the thigh meat survived the over cooking a bit more, but still no where near as tender and juicy as a fried chicken thigh should be. It was 6:00, so prime dinner time. The restaurant was about full, but I noticed carry-out orders, so maybe they were understaffed in the kitchen. I might give them a second chance next time I'm in town. read more

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Great fried chicken and drinks. Easy to order up at the bar and have them bring you your food. Plenty of TVs to catch a game as well.