I had a previous review where I complained about the takeout service. They have since improved the takeout experience, and addressed the complaints I had. Great job! A solid spot right near the Capitol. One of my favorite things for a quick lunch is a taco and an esquites bowl. Good spot for margs, weather permitting. read more

Always a must stop for us when we are in town. Love the margaritas! The team here hustles and has fun while they are doing it. Food is delicious. My previous reviews stand in terms of favorites. No change there. read more

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I had a very delicious meal here after a long day of travel I was looking for something that was very simple and easy to eat so I decided to get tacos at canteen well actually I ended up getting a burrito because I asked the waiter what he recommended in the Cali burrito add steak sounded delicious. I like that they give you these little wagon wheels with teen on it, but I really wish it was chips and salsa, but I couldn't justify paying the extra for the chips and salsa. They did not have iced tea here which broke my southern heart but overall I would go here again. I almost went there tonight, but I decided to try a other restaurant on my bucket list of Madison Wisconsin. read more

Canteen - Tacos Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

First time at Canteen yesterday and I will absolutely be back. We went for happy hour-- half price tacos means FOUR tacos for just nine bucks! After living in the Southwest, good tacos and Madison seem hard to come by but these blew me away. Loved the fried cauliflower and pork belly! Super filling and flavorful. The service was excellent (fast and friendly!). The inside is bright and cheerful which made it extra fun. read more

Canteen - Pork Belly and Fried Cauliflower Tacos - Tacos Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

This was the first stop I made in Wisconsin and it was a great way to start a long weekend there! Food was fresh and tasty, prices were great for happy hour, and it's a cute little spot. If I ever found my way back to Madison, I would definitely go back! read more

Yeah! The two taco deal is tasty af, and the Margies ‍ are solidly satisfying. Great location, staff are efficient and informative.

This place has a really fun vibe, though it's on the smaller side. I went during happy hour, and the deals were definitely worth it. It felt a lot more relaxed than it would during peak times. My friend and I both had burritos, and they were absolutely delicious. Everything tasted fresh and flavorful. The staff was attentive and got our orders out quickly. I'd come back for happy hour for sure, though prices at other times might be a bit steep. read more

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Had a dinner at Canteen during Parent's Weekend at UW - places everywhere were quite busy. Overall, I thought the food at Canteen was pretty good. The duritos were a pleasant surprise. The interior is on the small-side [cozy], but pretty Madison Square hip. Our server was kinda grumpy, perhaps due to the the place being packed. After some homework, I learned Canteen is a part of the Food Fight Restaurant Group's portfolio, some serious restauranteurs read more

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Very nice environment but small. Definitely recommend hitting happy hour for their half of deals and quieter setting. Without the 2-5pm and late nite deals, this place can really hurt your wallet. The strawberry margarita was delicious but VERY strong. I got the Diablo shrimp and fried cod tacos, both AMAZING after drizzling Valentina hot sauce. Service was amazing and efficient. Big thank you to our beautiful server! read more

Canteen - Strawberry margarita - Tacos Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

Fantastic taco salad and Diet Coke! Thank you! I sat outside and it was a beautiful evening. Fairly quiet for a Saturday night in Madison. Friendly service. Highly recommend! read more

Canteen - Chopped Taco Salad - Tacos Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

One of my favorite spots by the capital. Good food with great happy hour deals. The tacos are always good but their taco salad is also amazing. The Guac and queso are great apps to share as well, the margaritas always are delicious and you can get pitchers which makes it even better. In the summertime they have a nice outdoor space as well. read more

Canteen - Shrimp Diablo tacos - Tacos Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

Went on a weekend, and I will suggest you should call to make reservation before arriving. If I'm being honest, the two people at the host stand were a bit rude. BUT once we sat down it turned around. Our server was so sweet and nice! The happy hour prices are great. Unfortunately non of their taps were working that day, but their margaritas were good. The tacos meat portions are good for the price. The pastor were my favorite. read more

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One of my favorite happy hour spots is Canteen! They have happy hour every day and offer half off their tacos and select drinks including some margaritas and beers. I personally like to start with a margarita and enjoy a Tecate as my second drink if I'm feeling up to it. This space is quite small but you may be able to grab a spot at the bar if you didn't make reservations it really depends on the day. Lots of character and color throughout the dining area. The carnitas tacos are my favorite and I like to dabble in some of the others too. Happy hour is a great time to try something new. Each taco comes with two street sized tacos. I usually check out two different tacos and it's plenty of food if in your own. Or go with a friend and try even more! read more

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Great tacos and a great happy hour special. The margaritas are delicious and the outdoor seating is the best in the summer. I love the thick lime wedges they give with the tacos. Good amount of vegetarian options and service is always good. read more

Canteen - Carnitas Tacos - Tacos Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

This is such a cozy vibe. We didn't realize we were coming during happy hour, what a bonus! Half off tacos and all margaritas every day from 2-5pm is a great deal The queso, el jefe margs, and steak tacos were the standouts. We could have used some more chips with the queso, and I didn't love the shrimp tacos. Our server was excellent. She was friendly, efficient, and helpful even though she had a lot of tables! Fun spot in a great location. read more

Canteen - El Shrimp Diablo tacos and Carne Fresco Tacos - Tacos Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

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Surprisingly really bomb and authentic tasting for Madison, Wisconsin?! Admittedly my expectations were pretty low, but we came in during happy hour and got half off tacos. I got the shrimp diablo and carne fresco, and they were great. They use a double corn tortilla and pile on the cilantro, which I love. So tasty and filling, and very affordable during happy hour! Also the complimentary chips were a nice touch. read more

Canteen - Shrimp Diablo and Carne Fresco Tacos - Tacos Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

I have a lot of favorites, and some of them have off days. Canteen however never misses! This location is perched on Hamilton street, right downtown in a great location for sight seeing. You will have to street park, and they have plenty of spots right out front. Also out front is the lovely patio, with ample space along the side of the restaurant. Inside is fairly large as well, there is a small bar you can dine at or catch a booth/high top. Very clean and spacious dining area. The staff is always very helpful, and accommodating. I've never had to wait long for a seat, or just someone to stop by and check on me in general. If you've never been, someone will absolutely give you the rundown. The food is incredible, I've been here 4 times now and I always come for happy hour. The tacos are delicious, packed with flavor from the juicy chicken, to the pork belly, or my favorite the beef brisket. You can't go wrong, they will also let you modify if you didn't want the pineapples, or a cream sauce that comes with it. They also mix it up a bit, no traditional chips and salsa. There are these airy chips, with seasoning on them that you get complimentary. If you are ever in Madison, WI on a layover like myself, or a local give them a shot today. Don't even add it to the list, just go and thank me later. Pro tip: Madison has an incredible trail system for waking/running/biking. You can get to it from this restaurant and downtown in general. So eat well, and walk it off. read more

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Updated review: Alora responded to my previous review, asking me to email her. I did so that same day, on 2/23/26, giving more specific information about our visit as she requested. My email was delivered. I never received a response from Alora. I understand people get busy, but when you specifically ask someone for information, respond to it when you get it. So, again, disappointing customer service, this time from the GM. Star removed. read more

Stumbled upon this place while in town on business. Luckily it was Monday at happy hour. We ordered tacos, queso, margaritas and they were absolutely fantastic! And all for 1/2 price! We even ordered flan for dessert and only spent about $50 dollars . The service was quick and friendly. The place is colorful and is a very comfortable place to relax. Check it out today! read more

Went during happy hour, and it's the only time to go! The inside is a little small, so it can easily get booked for the whole night. Making a reservation is the way to go. I wanted to try their draft beer but they didn't have any draft beer on tap when I went, which I thought was odd for a Mexican restaurant. My girlfriend and I shared the carnitas, chicken Al pastor, shrimp Diablo and grilled fish tacos. The shrimp Diablo was by far the best. They're the size of very full street tacos. They also give a free basket of duritos and they are addicting! read more

Food is bland and oily. Small alcohol drinks - but fun selection. Tasty salsas, friendly service, and fun decor.

What a delicious evening! I got the Cali Burrito and also indulged in some chips and queso. My burrito was absolutely delicious. The slaw inside made it so refreshing, and I added steak for some extra protein and it was cooked to perfection! The salsa verde that was served on the side was also so fresh and perfectly spicy. The chips and queso were so cheesy and rich. It was safe to say everyone at the table enjoyed it as an appetizer (there weren't even crumbs left!). The restaurant itself is so cute, I almost wanted to keep this place to myself and not post a review! It is perfectly nestled near the Capitol. Our waitress was also delightful and helpful with menu suggestions! Would highly recommend coming here for dinner or happy hour with friends! read more

Canteen - Queso Dip & Chips - Tacos Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

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Place is always busy for good a reason. Location is very convenient to get some delicious food to start your night. Service is always very friendly although sometimes slow at peak times. read more

Canteen - Tacos Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

Favorite place for tacos and margaritas. Great service every visit. Wonderful time every time our friends and family visits.

This is my partner and I'd number one restaurant! We might go here a bit too often... I always order the frozen strawberry margarita at half price happy hour and the fish tacos!! The service is always quick and the best tacos and Margs in downtown Madison! read more

Canteen - Frozen strawberries 12oz Spicy Margarita - Tacos Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

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Cute spot for lunch! I really do love Canteen's burritos but I think there are better places to go for tacos nearby. Highly recommend the Baja burrito. They are usually pretty busy but you can make a reservation. As others have mentioned, service is usually not great. read more

Canteen - Papas Fritas (top), Pork Belly Tacos (top) Baja burrito bowl (bottom) - Tacos Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

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My brother and I went there this past Sunday for brunch at 11 AM, sat at the bar. I've been there many times, it was his first. One of my fave spots in the city. I had the Ranchero Tacos & the Pork Belly tacos... as always, amazing. He had the Birria Tacos which he said were astounding. I wish I could remember the name of the server/bar tender that took care of us; she was so fun and conversational we loved chatting with her! I had the spicy margarita and a Paloma. Both great. I will always recommend Cantten! read more

Canteen - Tacos Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

Service and ambiance were incredible. Huge shoutout to our waitress Karina for amazing service! We made a reservation for a Thursday evening before a show at the Overture, and were glad we did because it started getting really busy around 5:30/6PM. The food is the only reason for my 3/5 stars. I had the classic burrito with picadillo and it was fine. It was a huge portion, but the flavors were a bit lackluster. I'm used to (and prefer) more flavorful Mexican food. My partner ordered the fish tacos and said they were a bit disappointing, nothing special. That being said, the agua fresca and horchata were both 5/5 stars. Could not recommend the drinks enough! Overall, we wouldn't go back to Canteen for the food. But the drinks were delicious, and we would return for happy hour! read more

Canteen - Fish Tacos - Tacos Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

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First time at Canteen and overall I enjoyed it. I ordered the classic burrito with carnitas. Was tasty,, but a bit salty. The restaurant is really cute and has a fun, bright vibe. Really friendly waitress. Clean bathrooms. Would come back and try the tacos. read more

Canteen - Classic Burrito - Tacos Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

Great atmosphere along with even better service. Tacos were not great, but the amazing drinks made up for it

I ordered the shrimp tacos ($10) and it was amazing! The portion size (2 tacos) was perfect. I also ordered a side of rice for $3 which was also delicious. My friend and I loved the complimentary chips. It has a sour/spicy taste and is a great snack - we even ordered another one for just $1! Their patio is super nice - we loved the vibes. We missed happy hour (2-5pm everyday) by just 15 mins because there was a 45 minute wait around 4:30, which we didn't expect. Overall our experience was great! 10/10! read more

Canteen - Tacos Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

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We love it! Clean and spacious, seating outdoors as well. Family friendly. Waitress was friendly. Food was great! We ordered nachos, shrimp tacos, quesadillas and drinks. Everything came on time and we devoured it all! The nacho dish was absolutely divine, gone in 5min! Portions are big! read more

Canteen - Nacho - Tacos Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

Here in Madison for a conference and my friend and I just settled into our hotel and went to find something to eat and tacos was the goal! We found this place not to far from our hotel. It was a beautiful day and it's happy hour right now- we were so excited for some good food and drinks. This restaurant has an indoor and outdoor seating situation, but we chose to eat inside. When we walked in, we weren't sure if we had to seat ourselves or if we needed to be sat by someone. After a moments wait, we simply asked. The waitress found us table (it wasn't really busy, dining room was empty) As we were handed our menus we ordered our cocktails and chips with guacamole. The guacamole was pretty good and a little bit chunky. We also ordered the Eloté corn that came in a small dish. Woah! It was creamy and good but super spicy hot. It was loaded with jalapeños! I stopped eating after my first bite. I don't understand why would you put so much heat in a dish where you can't enjoy the flavor because your mouth is numb and on fire. Our tacos plates arrived and I had ordered the Al Pastor chicken tacos and the carnitas tacos. The carnitas tacos were good, the flavor was nice and delicious. The chicken Al pastor was no bueno. The chicken was bland and overcooked. It tasted like the chicken was boiled. I ate half of my order of tacos. My drinks were good, I had a beer and tequila. My friend though ordered a blended margarita and it tasted watered down. The service was ok, our waitress was nice, I'm just that the food wasn't amazing but mediocre. The place has a great location, the decor is lively, the music doesn't help the vibe, perhaps play more upbeat music to match the restaurant. I won't recommend this place- I do hope it gets better. Thanks! read more

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This place has an amazing Happy Hour! I mean the margaritas and tacos at half off, are you kidding me! Tried the lamb tacos for the first time in my life...a, a, amazing. I think the staff and chefs try hard and some reviews are ridiculous. Most of the margaritas are done well, not watered down. Great spot! read more

Happy hour is 2-5 with half priced margaritas and tacos (and more!). They are adhering to social distancing for the tables and tables are timed due to the limited capacity. Staff was great and food came out very fast. We ordered so many tacos, we had do take some laps (only walking of course) around the capitol to help digest. I started with the Margarita and asked for it to be extra spicy which unfortunately was not spicy, tasted like a regular marg which was fine. The Mexican corn was very tasty! I liked the green onions and thinly sliced jalapeños for that added touch. The complimentary chips (forgot what they were exactly called) were tasty as well with a citrusy kick to it. For the tacos, they looked wonderful and had we had a beef, chicken and a pork flavor to try. All the flavors were pretty muted and the meat was slightly on the drier side. Not my favorite tacos but still a solid choice when downtown. read more

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Margaritas during happy hour are some of the best in Madison. Bad part? Everyone else is there during happy hour also! It can get busy and usually staffing can be short, but be patient and enjoy a margarita! read more

Canteen - Tacos Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

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I love the fact that they serve those Mexican style chips as a complimentary starter. I grew up eating those in Cali drenched in lime juice and tapatio hot sauce. I ordered the Cali burrito which sounds delicious but there honestly wasn't much flavor. Which was disappointing as it is made with basic ingredients. I did NOT like the shredded chicken in the burrito. Maybe it's a Midwest thing to use shredded chicken in burritos but again- in Cali we don't use shredded chicken for burritos or tacos. The Horchata was delicious. The ambiance is cute though- music is great. Can't go wrong with Bad Bunny and J Balvin. read more

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Went for late night happy hour and had only a 10 minute wait. We were seated in a booth toward the back of the restaurant. Loved the decor and relaxed atmosphere. Started with half price canteen margaritas. Not the best margarita I've had had, but tasty. Then tried the Brussel sprout, cauliflower, and steak tacos. The Brussel sprout taco was by far my favorite! Cauliflower wasn't what I was expecting and could have used more sauce, but it was nice to try. Steak with avocado was good too. Would recommend for happy hour! read more

I was looking forward to trying this place for some time now... My friends and I made a reservation to avoid a wait, as the previous Tuesday we were turned away at 9:00PM because they were booked. The staff was friendly and welcoming when we arrived. The atmosphere was lively and trendy. Duritos were brought to our table when we sat down. I started off by ordering a spicy margarita and chips & guac. The margarita was tasty and not too sweet. The guac was very small and bland and the chips were not very good. I asked the waitress what to choose between the the barbacoa tacos and the fish tacos; she recommended the barbacoa tacos. It cost $10.50 for two street-size tacos with no side. The meat was incredibly dry and flavorless. There was so much cabbage piled on the tacos that they completely fell apart. My friends ordered smothered burritos... for $17 a piece. Again, no sides came with the burritos. The flavor of the fish burritos was good, but the style of potatoes was bizarre for a burrito. The server was kind and accommodating, although we felt quite rushed. We were in and out of the restaurant in less than an hour. I knew that Canteen would be a far cry from authentic Mexican, but I was wildly disappointed by the overpriced and flavorless food. Honestly, I would choose Belair Cantina over Canteen... which is saying A LOT. read more

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Kind of busy, so sat at the bar and got the same great service! Brooke was great, she recommended some of the appetizers & some delicious drinks. I ordered the Shrimp Diablo tacos, small but they were stuff with greatness. Small place, clean, and helpful read more

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