Loved the deviled eggs appetizer. Laying them on a bed of shredded lettuce was odd, but not terrible. They could have used a little more pickle relish topping. The fish and chips--chips were cooked to perfection but the tartar sauce and fish were just ok. I commented that they basically tasted like nothing. Our servers were attentive and friendly and service was quick. The ambiance was nice--easy conversational place. If it had been warmer, they have a fantastic seating area outside. Inside there is very little room in the host/check-in table area and we constantly felt like we were in the way when other parties came in. read more

The wrap was mostly lettuce and kind of mid. The waffle fries and the garlic aioli were delicious! The cucumber cooler and the dragonfruit Paloma were amazing. The margarita was strong! Our server was lovely even though it was very busy and accommodated our split checks. Overall, I would go again but I would probably order something different. read more

Craftsman Table & Tap - Mediterranean Vegetable Wrap - Gastropubs Near Me - Middleton, Wisconsin

We ended up at Craftsman Table & Tap in effort to avoid the post-marathon crowds in Madison, however it seems everyone else had the same idea. Even with that, the wait was only about 20 minutes, and the hostess was friendly and kept us updated as we waited. Once we got sat, our server came our way, got us started with a drink order and then disappeared for a while. She came back around and we tossed in cocktail and appetizer order. Our cheese curds made it to the table within 5 minutes, while our cocktails took around 20. We ordered our mains shortly after our appetizer hit the table and our meals were delivered with our cocktails, which was a tad annoying, but not the end of the world. Our server acknowledged, which was nice of her. To start, the cheese curds were delicious. Light, airy, filled with just enough cheddar cheese and paired well with the ranch. I went with the plain pancakes and sausage, while my buddy went with the brunch burger and potatoes. The pancakes were excellent. Light, fluffy and with a perfect crispy edge from the griddle. The sausage was a bit overcooked, but nothing terrible. My pals burger was tasty, but again overcooked. It was ordered medium, and came out close to well. The potatoes however were crispy and well seasoned, very tasty! It seemed like the bar and servers were disconnected from the kitchen. The kitchen was on point with timing and preparation, however the wait staff and bar were super delayed and not in sync. Again, our server was super sweet, but service was off. Price was another concern, while the food was good and the drinks were decent, we paid $76 for an appetizer, two brunch plates and two cocktails. Quality did not match price here unfortunately. Parking is another pain point, while they are located in a shopping plaza, there is not much direct access parking near the actual restaurant. We parked near the grocery story, which was only across the street, but the tiny lot outside the doors of this place got backed up really quick. Nothing they can do about it now, but it can be hassle when busy. Overall, our visit and experience was just okay. We wouldn't go out of our way to visit or avoid in the future. read more

See all

We had so much fun here! The food was excellent, they were really accommodating of our group size and the drinks were strong. What more could ya want?! read more

I've come here twice because I've heard this place has the best cheese curds in town, and they are definitely top tier - eat them while they're hot! I also got the shaved steak sandwich and it was interesting - the steak itself was undersalted, but actually balanced out really well with the saltiness from the dijon sauce, pickles, and cheese. The mixed greens side was also lightly tossed and not drenched in dressing - I really appreciate the health-conscienceness of this restaurant which is why I'm giving them 5 stars! read more

Craftsman Table & Tap - Carr Valley Cheese Curds - Gastropubs Near Me - Middleton, Wisconsin

Another excellent meal with fantastic service. Luis is such a great bartender and always makes us feel so welcome. It was busy in there tonight, creating a fun and high energy vibe. Our server tonight was excellent, and I wish we caught her name. The walleye was fabulous! I can't believe I never had it before because now it's definitely my favorite thing on the menu. The beans were a little al dente but the seasoning and flavor were good. We love their changing cocktail, mocktail, and beer menu. read more

Craftsman Table & Tap - Fish & Chips and old fashioned - Gastropubs Near Me - Middleton, Wisconsin

See all

Cute little place. We made reservations but probably didn't actually needing them. It took a while for our waitress to come greet us and get our order, but once that was done, things went pretty smoothly. We split an order of the deviled eggs app which was served with pickles, a bit vinegary but good. I had the breakfast BLT. The potatoes were well prepared, and the side of "'mixed greens" was gigantic! My friend had the American breakfast with ham. The ham was delicious. Juicy, moist, tender, flavorful. The scrambled eggs looked fluffy and well done, but unfortunately had a weird taste. It almost felt like the eggs were scrambled with teriyaki. Not a fan. The mimosas were filled to the brim! Overall we enjoyed it. read more

See all

Very disappointed that they changed their fried cheese curds recipe!! It used to be my #1 favorite curds in Madison....now it's just OK and similar to other places. Such a shame. read more

Craftsman Table & Tap - Gastropubs Near Me - Middleton, Wisconsin

The service and cleanliness and decor are good, but I found the food very ordinary. I advise against the "broiled" fish and chips--tasteless and bland. Their special Rye Old-Fashioned was not an Old Fashioned except in name. (Orange peel instead of slice; no cherry, minimal fizz.) read more

I took out lunch on a weekday. Tomato basil soup was probably my favorite item from here. Nashville hot chicken was not as hot as a Nashville hot chicken should be. But still good. Double smashburger was my other item. It was good as well. I liked the location of this restaurant. read more

See all

Went to lunch while visiting the area for work. A coworker told me I had to get the cheese curds and they did not disappoint. For my meal I ordered the chicken bacon salad it is HUGE I took half home!! It was very good just such a large portion wish it came in a half size. Quick service. read more

Craftsman Table & Tap - Carr Valley Cheese Curds - Gastropubs Near Me - Middleton, Wisconsin

Really disappointing. This was our first time eating here and we ordered bbq wings for carry out. We were excited to try them out, but ended up pushing through two each, and then just throwing them away. Out $30 for something going straight in the garbage. The meat was dry and the bbq sauce tasted like tomato, and not much else. Even the ranch tasted a little sour. Honestly, no redeeming qualities on these. Dang it. read more

Great casual local restaurant atmosphere with matching food. I've been many times and never disappointed. I like that it's kid friendly.

I've always had a wonderful time here and am curious if your experience depends on what you order, who is serving you, and where you are seated considering the differing reviews on here. I love the outdoor dining in the summer, especially when there is music! The cheese curds are one of my favorites in Madison and the deviled eggs are also great. I love all of the different beer options, which rotate frequently, and appreciate that the bartenders and servers let you taste them before you commit. You can even rent the upstairs area for private events which comes with your choice of food items and your own private bar. The pretzels and sliders are great and we loved their sauces. Lastly, parking is pretty easy due to the huge lot in the back as well as plentiful street parking. We will be back to try more menu items in the future! read more

Craftsman Table & Tap - Gastropubs Near Me - Middleton, Wisconsin

The prime rib was inedible, but the brussel sprout toast was fire! I would go back for just that! We should have ordered a burger

I think it's actually been years since I have been here. Stopped by for a quick drink and snack. Off the bar menu they had a delicious I don't remember what the drink was called, but it was blackberry for the first word and it had gin as it's token alcohol with a nice garnish of rosemary. It was delightful the waffle fries with the Louie sauce were super tasty. Louie sauce is their version of 1000 island dressing. Great place to meet with groups or families. Their kids menu is pretty good too. The service was good, the bartender was running the bar and also waiting on tables. Definitely will be back. read more

Craftsman Table & Tap - Waffle fries - Gastropubs Near Me - Middleton, Wisconsin

See all

Revisited Craftsman Table & Tap haven't been there in many years and it was just as good as I remembered! The prime rib special was seasoned well . Cheese curds ( awesome) light, pillowy and slightly greasy. I will be back soon. read more

Craftsman Table & Tap - Prime. - Gastropubs Near Me - Middleton, Wisconsin

Since I was here with a business group that reserved the upstairs room and terrace for their function, I cannot comment on the menu or dishes you might order as a regular customer. But I do believe that the quality of a catered event provides some useful information about what one could expect from the kitchen and the front of the house if you choose to dine here. Our event started with cocktails and appetizers. The bartender was professional and efficient. My Redemption Rye traditional Old Fashioned was excellent. I had two! The appetizers were average, but an ample and a satisfying start to the evening. The dinner itself was a buffet which included a mixed greens salad, cherry glazed salmon, thin sliced prime rib, a chicken option, roasted asparagus, and a potato option. I didn't have the chicken so no comment on that. The salmon was a tad overcooked and therefore a bit dry, but the flavor was fine. The prime rib was a perfect medium rare and nicely seasoned with an ample amount of salt and pepper. The asparagus was good, neither over nor undercooked. I skipped the potatoes. Compared to the many buffets I've had at similar events, this one was a solid "B+." To close out the event, a platter of bars (lemon, chocolate, etc.) was added to the buffet. Coupled with a Bulleit Bourbon neat, it was a satisfactory end to the meal. Based on my experience last night, I would consider returning to dine in the restaurant itself. If I do I'll update my review. read more

We had great food, good drinks and awesome service. We sat outside and had a nice relaxing lunch! It was a perfect spot for a casual but great meal. read more

My wife and I stopped in for lunch and and were very pleased with the experience. Nice place with a very friendly staff. Nice beer selection and Menu. I had a delicious Cobb Salad with chicken and My wife had a gourmet grilled cheese with that came with a huge side salad. Would definately stop back. Nicely decorated and great location for other shopping. read more

Craftsman Table & Tap - Delicious Cobb Salad with chicken and lots of crisp fresh veggies - Gastropubs Near Me - Middleton, Wisconsin

See all

Place has taken a nose dive the past few years. Used to have great beer selections and higher end bar food. Their food now is small portioned and slopped together. Beer list is uninspired and generic. Back bar is a just a smattering of the normal run of the mill bar selections found at most dive bars and where they used to store their top shelf whiskeys is now cheap liquors not that don't need to a display. The service is decent but not wasting my time with this place anymore. read more

A reason to give a place a second chance...2023 I went for Restaurant Week and had a horrible experience. Hadn't been back till 2025 Restaurant Week. Went from 1 to 5! Happy Hour Old Fashioned was still $5! Sat at bar solo (again) and service was perfect. Food Yummy! Chose shrimp cakes w/arugula salad, walleye w/green beans & bacon, chocolate crème brûlée w/ blueberries & mint. Everything perfectly prepared. Recommend! read more

See all

Recently visited this place twice in the last month since I was last here in 2018. Nothing mind blowing, but still good. For Mother's Day, we had the prime rib sandwich and BBQ burger. The sandwich itself was okay overall, a bit dry but the dip helped. BBQ burger was average. My 5yo's burger was very dry, so she barely ate it. No amount of ketchup could salvage that. Chicken tenders and fries were also average, but it kept my 2yo happy. Service was also average. For a graduation dinner, we came in around 5:30pm with a group of 4 adults and 2 kids. We did not have reservations in advance, but was asked if we would be able to be done eating by 6:30pm for a group that would be coming in. Truthfully, didn't like that we were even asked that question - it felt like we were being pushed out. We also told them it would depend on how fast we would get our food, which also makes us feel as if the kitchen would be rushed to get our food to us rather than take their time to make it properly. With that said, our dinner was overall good. The server was attentive, but not once made us feel as if we had to leave by a certain time. The kids burger was less dry this time around, but she enjoyed it better. The cod was very good, no complaints. The chimichurri tenderized steak was not very tender, but it was fine. My kid was treated with an apple crumble dessert with ice cream on the house for her graduation, so that was really appreciated. Overall, good experience. Will still come back as my kids enjoy coming here and we could definitely try some other things on the menu. read more

See all

I've tried Craftsman Table & Tap twice at the desire of other people. The first time a year ago, food not even memorable enough to report on. Decided to give it a go for Madison Restaurant Week yesterday. Underwhelming again. I ordered from the special menu and friend ordered three courses from the regular. Chickpea chili and carrot soup delightful in flavor, texture, and presentation. Next course seemed to come quick. I had the mezze plate, friend a salad. I roast chickpeas at home so don't understand what was piled on the creamy and flavorful hummus here. Chickpeas were oily, texturally undesirable, and had an off putting flavor. Or maybe none. I don't know as I roast various spiced mixture chickpeas at home and they have all been winners based on the eaters in my household. I quit the Craftsman chicks after a few bites. The veggies had mild curry flavor but heavy salt. I needed to ask for more water a couple times. Service wasn't coming by. My friend's salad looked fresh and was passable but nothing special. The desserts came while we were still on our entrees. We sat at 3pm to avoid any potential crowds for Sunday brunch or restaurant week. We were surprised to be rushed. We did see our server leaving a few minutes after desserts were on the table and check paid. I appreciate we all want to go leave work in time, but management or another server could perhaps take over so guests don't have whip cream and ice cream melting while eating entrees. A walnut torte is a whole different thing here. It was nuts held together with flour or butter. I cannot recommend it. The apple dessert looked lovely. Friend had to dig to the bottom to get a few apple pieces. Needed bills back so I could overtip (in these trying times) and not do 15 or even 25%. The bills came back ten bucks short. I had to flag down another server to get our server so I could ask for the ten back. There are other options in Middleton. Craftsman isn't nailing atmosphere, food flavor, uniqueness, or quality, or service enough to make this worth it. read more

See all

Went here for brunch on a Saturday, primarily because they do reservations and we had 5 people. I would say the restaurant was about half full when we arrived, which made it nice to be able to talk across the table. Our waitress was pretty quick to come get our drink orders, and they came out in a reasonable time. Then it took a little while for us to get our food orders in and for it to come out. We saw a few other tables who were equal size come in after us and finish eating before us, so not really sure how that worked. As for the food, we got the brunch burger, brunch blt, chilaquiles, and the braised chickpea chili. The burger and blt had good reviews and they especially liked the breakfast potatoes. The chilaquiles was a reasonable amount of food, the pork pulled apart nicely, and there was a good amount of avocado, but it was a little bland. Not what the friend was hoping for. The braised chickpea chili should not be called a chili. I ordered it assuming it would be a comforting food for a rainy day, but it had a lemon zing that seemed more summery. It was more like a lemon lentil stew, but replace lentils with chickpeas. The chickpeas were plentiful, but the soup was way too acidic to think about eating the entire bowl. I was also really confused why there was sour cream in it. Overall, a couple misses and a couple okays. You at least get a decent amount of food, but the price points are a little higher than I tend to like. In the three times I've been here, what's on the menu just doesn't seem to live up to expectations. read more

See all

I'd say the service was great. We didn't had to wait much for getting seated considering it was Friday night. The place was full though once we were seated. The place was casual style dining. We immediately were greeted by our server as soon as we sat down & got plenty of recommendations. We ordered double smash burger & the steak entree. The food came out pretty quick and they tasted good. read more

Craftsman Table & Tap - Double Smash Burger - Gastropubs Near Me - Middleton, Wisconsin

See all

We had a great lunch and servers were very attentive even though they had a steady lunch crowd. They even had a gluten free bun so I could have a burger. My rhubarb sparkling drink was amazing! Cant wait to try to recreate that recipe at home! read more

See all

First I was told by a native on the plane that I should come here for cheese curds. He had a big smile on his face while telling me about it. When I got to my hotel, I couldn't remember the name exactly and the girl at the front desk broke into a huge grin and told me it was Craftsman. The hostess broke out in a huge grin when I told her about the cheese curd recommendations. Guess what, they weren't wrong! The house salad was super tasty and fresh, the tomato basil soup was the perfect thickness and flavor ratios. And the cheese curds.... When I meet my soon-to-be-needed cardiologist, I will just show them the picture and tell them I just couldn't help myself! read more

Craftsman Table & Tap - Cheese curds - Gastropubs Near Me - Middleton, Wisconsin

Met a friend for lunch. Sat at the high top. Immediately greeted at the table with menus and water. Friend had the Chicken Cob salad. Came to the table loaded with bacon, egg, tomato, zucchini, sliced chicken and plenty of dressing. Looked great and must have been tasty because it ended up being part of the clean plate club. I had the burger medium with a slice of havarti cheese, pickles, lettuce and tomato. Burger was prepared perfectly and adorned by the perfect bun. Not too big and crusty. Greens lightly dressed with an oil and vinegar accompanied the burger. Venue is nice and open, nicely decorated and a decent size. Service was better than most places these days. Value was good. I highly recommend without any reservations. Menu looked very inviting and daily specials appealed to my eye. Will definitely return. read more

Craftsman is a go to place for good food in a casual atmosphere. They have a nice size menu and a large beer selection. Nice outdoor seating in warm temperatures. read more

First time here for me. Being on the far West side this was not really on my radar even though it is a Food Fight restaurant and we usually have a couple of their gift cards laying around. Friends suggested it so we trucked on out from Monona. We got there early enough on a Friday to enjoy there happy hour pricing. We took advantage of the $5 old fashions - very well made. Apps were $2 off so we got an order of the deviled eggs - they were OK. I think I have a better mix... Once seated (they do take reservations) with our group we ordered more of the happy hour priced old fashions since it was still before 5:30pm. Three of us got the fish and chips. Made with cod and served with waffle fries. I usually get a fish fry with walleye, perch or blue gill since moving back to Wisconsin so I have not had cod for some time. Hot, crispy and light. It actually was very good as were the fries. The fourth in our group got the barley salad with salmon. The salmon was done to her liking - medium rare. The server was unobtrusive and kept things moving. The prices were reasonable (OK that is a relative statement these days!). read more

Traditional Pub feel dim lighting. Great staff, various food options. Went to lunch with the parents here. Our server was awesome, friendly, a helpful advisor, kept our glasses full, and checked on us a few times. Mom ordered Brussels sprout toast very delicious. Dad and I each had a bacon ranch salad with their tasty house made dressing. I would recommend Craftsman Table & Tap On other occasions I've enjoyed their hummus platter and mushroom Swiss burger. Laid back place to have lunch with friends or family with an old fashioned as well as few modern food options. read more

See all

The food was amazing, and came out of the kitchen incredibly fast. The staff were very friendly and helpful as we made our selections. We chose to visit this restaurant after reading the reviews about the cheese curds, they did not disappoint, you have to try them if you visit Madison! Great name and theme for this restaurant located on Frank Lloyd Wright Ave. read more

A place for food fun drinks and even a party. My son going off to Iowa State this week prompted renting the upper level for a sending off party for him to invite friends, our family friends and it was a very special day. The food as is generally the case was what I've long enjoyed about this restaurant. Because following the pandemic the salmon and Brussels plate which had been my reason to visit since they first arrived in my neighborhood, was never brought back I myself haven't returned either. (I check the menu from time to time, still only salmon on a salad was what I found, not enough.) But the catered menu of favorites which included, naturally, the best cheese curds possibly in the entire Milky Way, as well as sliders, a burger as well as a relative to the French dip, sans a jus, and a Turkey BLT, each quite enjoyable. Regardless of my pescatarian and fruit preference these days, I broke my diet and indulged. The cheese curds were the first to break me down and shove cholesterol down my face, followed later by one of each of the sandwiches. As per the always consistent staff and their commitment to top quality work, the entire thing was an absolute success. My rating is about the high standards, my rating is 5 for the things I've written about, but four still for the singular item and I'll remain firm: BRING ME MY SALMON, ill return with my money along with my 5th. star! read more

Still a solid choice for lunch or dinner, this time I got a fried chicken sandwich with house made chips, not too greasy and very crunchy. read more

Craftsman Table & Tap - Chicken sandwich with house made chips - Gastropubs Near Me - Middleton, Wisconsin

Food was soooo underwhelming. Staff was welcoming and timely. Deviled eggs were basic, I can make better ones at home. Hot honey fried chicken was overly sweet and drenched in orange flavor for some reason, it was described as "popcorn chicken, hot honey glaze, toasted sesame" - seemed more like it was tossed in sugar water and orange than honey. Side salad had large cuts of cucumbers and carrots which was inconvenient to eat. Sliced would have better flow. Also it had peas...? The craft burger was pretty boring even after switching American cheese for havarti. Not enough flavor even with garlic pickles, dijonnaise, urban burger sauce. We did enjoy the Boulder Shake - a chocolate nitro stout. read more

See all

Today: The service is still phenomenal. The atmosphere is the same. The food on the other hand has taken a turn... Tonight I had my usual the fried walleye. The fish was perfect, everything else on the plate was dismal. Sorry but no more curry pickles, you now just get a generic spear. No more fresh crosscut fries as mine were lukewarm and mush. The recipe has changed for the coleslaw and no more toasted rye bread. $24 for an edible fillet of fish is just too much. SO, I then ordered the Reuben. Well same soggy rye bread, little to no sauerkraut, and the meat is just huge chunks of toughness with grissle and tendons... On top, no more fresh cooked kettle chips as now you get cold oil rich chips. I also ordered the creme brulee. Well, it was probably the oldest in the fridge. The hard sugar coating was liquid and the custard was stale. If you are considering breakfast, that's a hard pass for me too. The breakfast is just as bad. Overcooked rubber eggs and the biscuits and gravy could be used as hockey pucks. Sorry, but not sorry it's time to move on to another restaurant as this one I can no longer support. Too bad for everyone... 1 year ago: The service is attentive and personable. The food was delicious and portions were generous for the price. Would definitely come back! read more

I live near Craftsman so I stop by frequently. Their cheese curds are inconsistent in quality but when they're good, they're the best ones I've had! I mostly come for brunch on the weekends. The coffee is great (I say that as someone who usually drinks only fancy coffee). I really enjoy the chilaquiles, omelette, and French toast. The croque madame is tasty but it's a little too messy for me. The greens and breakfast potatoes that come as sides for many of the breakfast dishes are a nice addition. I rarely come here for lunch or dinner, but the Brussels sprouts salad is fantastic, especially if you add salmon! read more

Craftsman Table & Tap - Carr Valley Cheese Curds - Gastropubs Near Me - Middleton, Wisconsin

See all

Great place to eat with space for kids if you have them. There are a lot of tvs to watch if that is your thing. Not to start a fight or anything but these are our favorite cheese curds in the area. We ordered the hot honey fried chicken appetizer and I will say that was not good, it wasn't very flavorful and tasted mostly liked burnt sesame seeds. We had a burger with sweet potato fries, fish & chips, and the Brussels sprout salad. We liked everything, the burger and fries were delicious, and the spicy aioli that comes with the sweet potato fries is excellent. This is a solid restaurant to eat at. read more

See all

Heard so many great reviews about this place and finally decided to check it out. We ordered the pretzel appetizer which was smothered in cheese and chives. The combination was nothing I've had before but certainly will have again. Our entrees were the BBQ burger, Angus burger, and cheese burger Mac. The cheese burger Mac was AMAZING, so tasty and came with garlic bread slices on the side. The cheese burgers, especially the BBQ burger, were even better. Criss cross fries were an up charge as the burgers only come with chips or a salad. Broccoli & cheddar soup was honestly one of the bests I've ever had. Overall this was a great find will definitely be coming back to this restaurant. read more

See all