Our visit got off to a pretty disappointing start. When we walked in, we stood near the entrance for a while before anyone acknowledged us, so we eventually found a table ourselves. Someone later brought over cups, napkins, and silverware, but we still weren't given menus, so we grabbed those on our own. After sitting there for around 12 minutes without anyone checking on us or taking our order, we decided to move over to the bar. Thankfully, the bartender was much more attentive and welcomed us right away. While he was taking our order, another employee came over and asked whether someone had seated us. I explained that no one had, and that we hadn't even been acknowledged when we first arrived. The service at the beginning definitely left a bad impression, especially when there are so many other places nearby where we could go for food and drinks. The bartender did help improve the experience, though, so I bumped my rating up from what would have been a 1 star review to 3 stars. read more

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I came here on a Sunday evening after visiting the bookshop around the corner. It's not a huge space and there was a pretty large party already there, but we got a table right away. It's a fun festive decor inside. Instead of the traditional chips/salsa, they give you a basket of some kind of puffed wheel things with a chili lime type flavor to it. I did not care for the texture, it felt greasy and reminded me of a crunchy funnel cake. We instead decided to just order chips and salsa. Came with three salsas of varying heat, but honestly I prefer the normal red salsa to the elevated fancy ones. While they have a decent amount of tacos on their taco menu, they are bit more "creative" tacos than the standard traditional street tacos I normally get at a taqueria... which is fine as that seems to be their thing, but I don't typically love a bunch of stuff in my taco. There was a chicken pastor that looked okay but I'm not usually a chicken taco fan. The pork belly also looked relatively traditional. I decided to ask our server as I was debating between tacos and the fajitas. And she was super helpful - said fajitas over the chicken tacos but pork tacos over fajitas. It's kind of annoying that the tacos come in sets of 2, so I couldn't get one of each. I opted for the fajitas instead. Fajitas were good, I took about half of it home with me and ate the rest for lunch the next day. Nothing special that you couldn't get at any other Mexican restaurant, but certainly not bad at all. It took forever for our food to come out, I suspect because of the large party, but there weren't many other people there otherwise. Our server was apologetic and offered to get us a drink or app on the house which is very kind. But when we were ready for the bill she vanished and we had to end up tracking someone else down for it. Overall, a decent experience but not sure it lived up to its hype. I recommend checking it out and deciding for yourself! read more

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Let's say this is definitely not starting on the right foot We entered and stood at the door for a minute. Not a hello so we sat down He then came over and gave us cups with a napkin and silverware in it Then we got up and got our own menus and we continued to sit 12 minutes without anyone even talking to us We at this point moved to the bar. The bartender greeted us and got our order as he was doing so another guy walked over and asked if anyone seated us I said no we were not even greeted upon entering. This is definitely not a favorite place for me but my daughter and her friends come here on occasion I'd be okay if I never came back. To many great places for food/drinks around the capital to ever visit here again! The bartender actually changed my stars from 1 to 3 read more

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Madison? Wisconsin? For tacos? Yes, it's true! Located right in the state capitol square I walked in and was greeted and served promptly by Christian at the bar. Bonus points? Happy hour everyday which means half off select tacos and beverages. Like $3 Pacifico's and $5 for two tacos. Vegetarian tacos with potatoes were well prepared on corn tortillas. The flank steak carnitas frescas was outstanding. Little crema, little lime for acid, dash of hot sauce for heat - just delicious. Hard to describe how friendly and inclusive the vice was at Canteen. This is on my regular stop from here on when I pass through town. You don't be disappointed! read more

Canteen - Best deal in town! - Tacos Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

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Went here for lunch to try out their burger for Madison Burger Week. We were very excited because it was a green chili cheese smash burger with yucca fries. It looked really good when we saw their post on Facebook right before we went. There were only a few people there when we arrived, so we were seated right away. The waiter came pretty quick to get our order, but unfortunately, when we tried to order the burger week burger, they said they weren't making it. This was really the only reason we stopped here for lunch, so we were slightly taken off guard by this. Since we were already there, we decided to order the lunch special of two tacos, rice, beans, and a drink for $12. It took a little while for the food to come out, but everything tasted fine. The carne fresco tacos were quite tasty and I would definitely order again. Overall, the food was fine, but it was a disappointment that they didn't have the only item we came there for. We ended up ordering ahead from a different restaurant participating in burger week and went to pick it up so we at least got to try one. read more

Stumbled across this little hidden gem with our company changing hotels it's literally next door! Soon as we walked in, we were greeted by someone named Cayden. Super nice showed us a menu right away and told us about the happy hour. We were instantly sold. Got a table outside next time. We will probably sit inside just because of the birds, lol but the food was amazing and the drinks were top-notch happy hour is such a steal five dollars for two tacos and the tacos are really nice size. Caiden was very attentive always checking on us and making sure our drinks were refilled. The margaritas are also five dollars on the happy hour. I can't wait to tell all of our coworkers about this place in the convenience along with the great staff will definitely be back. Thank you Cayden for being so kind and informational on the menu! read more

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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

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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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

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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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

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

My favorite place for tacos in Madison! Service is fantastic and friendly. And it's not just tacos: the burritos, bowls, and enchiladas are excellent. Been here many times, and they've never disappointed. read more

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

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

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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Tacos were very solid, 8/10. Sat outside, very nice. Full pitcher of strawberry margarita for 3 people = well worth it. A bit on the pricey side, but everything is nowadays so read more

Canteen - Beef Birria Tacos + Picadillo Ground Beef 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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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

Do not order tacos from here. I ordered their Al Pastor tacos to go. The meat was cold. There was NO flavor. Also ordered a side of rice and it looked like it had been sitting all day. It was dry and also no flavor. Not sure why people give this place a good rating. I will never come here again. Don't waste your money. 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

Used to live Canteen. Went last night and was disappointed. Chaos at the greeting station. They were understaffed so service suffered. Got the potato empanadas which were beyond bland and did not some with sauce. My wife's burrito bowl was cold and my burrito was way underwhelming. First time we had a bad experience but for the price I'm not sure we will roll the dice again. read more

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

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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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

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

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

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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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

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

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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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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