We had a blast here! Such a unique spot! Great live music, good service, and love all of the signs on the walls! Decor is unique and fun. We went here twice during our trip! read more

The number one place recommended to us when we said we were visiting Madeline Island was to visit Tom's. It's a very fun and unique dive bar with a fascinating history, and decor that simply speaks for itself. The drinks are strong, the beer was cold, and we had a great time before heading back to the campsite. I wish we would have come a few hours later when live music was scheduled. I would definitely recommend making a stop when you're on the island, just remember to bring cash! read more

I stopped by on a night. The place was lighted and looked nice from outside. Inside, it was not too busy. I went for an island punch. It was a good drink. Unfortunately there was no food available. There were a lot of smokers around me as well. read more

Tom's Burned Down Cafe - Island punch - Music Venues Near Me - La Pointe, Wisconsin

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Overpriced, overrated, bartender was drunk dancing around in her overalls like a stripper. Made wrong drinks, couldn't remember what you gave her for cash payment. Music was poor. Won't be back. read more

Our experience at Tom's was fantastic! The decor is super unique, with lots of mixed furniture and signs. Seating is actually super comfortable & though there isn't a roof, the walls that are up helped block the wind. We grabbed a spot at the bar. The bartender was immediately super friendly & made a mean Long Island (followed by a Madeline Island, woof), it was the best one I've ever had. They were also quick to recommend places to eat once we were heading out. read more

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What can I say that hasn't already been said? There's no place like Tom's and with good reason. This bar is a mess but that's the whole point! Come for a gawk at the funny signs and stay for a cheap beer or three. Be advised - the walls are thin so the weather may follow you in. read more

The ultimate dive bar-right on Madeline Island! Still no food served here (it's a BURNED DOWN CAFE) but a bar instead. LOL (lots of locals) because they know where the strong drinks are poured! One female bartender serving the entire place (loud applause). read more

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If you want a dive bar experience then Tom's is your place. We knew what we were getting ourselves into when we visited Madeline Island. After biking and hiking out to and in Big Bay State Park we needed some refreshments after returning to town. We had heard about Tom's and it is hard to miss so we stopped in after dropping off our rental bikes across the street. Wow - this is one of the dumpier dives with the right amount of quirkiness. It had a bit of an old Key West feel which I do appreciate. The prices for classic can beers like PBR, Hamms, Old Style was reasonable (what no Schlitz?). They also have some interesting looking drinks that are supposedly very strong - we passed on those. Only downside is they allow smoking since I guess it is technically "outside" - this place looks like it would go up in flames instantly with one errant spark! Know where the exits are... Kitschy and fun for those who like this sort of joint. read more

What a fun place!! The funny and crazy signs all over and the decor made it a unique and fun experience of its own. The bartender was very friendly and she even spoke French to my friend who is from France. We enjoyed the drinks and the culture of the place. We felt like we were in the tropics. They had plenty of drink options including tons of N/A options which is a nice change from a lot of establishments. I do wish we had time for seeing the band but maybe next time!! read more

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A very interesting place for a drink on the island. The drinks are very good but it is not quite enough ventilation for the large amount of smokers in the bar. read more

Tom's Burned Down Cafe - Music Venues Near Me - La Pointe, Wisconsin

7/19/24. Ordered a drink, was there for a bit, and this 17(?) year old kid comes over and demands we pay $10 ea for the band that started after we arrived. We said no. If you wanted us to pay cover, you should have been at the door before the band started, and before we ordered drinks because we would have chosen not to pay. He told us, and I quote, "LEAVE RIGHT NOW!" We said no, we were still having our drinks. He then tells us HE'S GOING TO CALL 911. CAN YOU BELIEVE THIS?? I'M NOT MAKING THIS UP! The guy next to us said the kid had been hassling him, too. An older lady came over and said if we don't pay the cover, they won't serve us anymore. UN-FREAKING-BELIEVABLE WAY TO HANDLE CUSTOMERS! It was 8 pm Friday night, and they weren't even busy, so great job kicking 4 of us patrons out! We went across the street to a much more friendly bar called Beach Club. read more

Stopped by here for a late-night drink and have always loved the ambiance. Not much has changed over the years, but they do still have some awesome seasonal drinks to try. Lots of seating options and could easily accommodate our large-ish group. They were also very COVID conscious, requiring guests to either show proof of vaccination or wear a mask. So this truly was one of the first times I felt comfortable going out in public since the pandemic. Definitely add this place to your Madeline Island must-do list! read more

Fun atmosphere and a great Bloody Mary and Margaritas. Very unique seasonal place. They only serve snack foods. Great for hanging out with friends and people watching. The location is right in town with plenty of parking and shopping you can walk to. read more

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Quirky as hell. How can you not stop if you're on MI? Plus there aren't a lot of late night options. It was moderately busy. The signs are fun to read. The drinks are good. Saturday night had live music. Might be back on the island next weekend, too. It's a unique and eclectic experience that must be seen first hand. read more

First time to Madeline Island. Stopped in as this was recommended. If you've never been there it's hard to know where to enter. We tried to find the way in as no sign saying it was closed. I accidentally walked thru a private entry. The lady working screamed at me and said "Get out of my f...... office". I said I didn't know how to get in - so sorry. She said "I don't care - we're closed. Get Out!" She screamed at me. Would NEVER go back. Never been spoken to so rudely at a restaurant in my life. read more

When visiting Madeline Island it's a must stop, Unless you are Not into eclectic. We visit every time we are visiting Madeline Island/ Bayfield. The Bar is a fun place to visit, also check their summer time music schedule. If you happen to be there for Joe and Vicky Price, check them out. read more

Tom's Burned Down Cafe - Music Venues Near Me - La Pointe, Wisconsin

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Big hippie hangout. Must stop when in Madeline. Where else would you stop? Tom's is really a place for all people, but it does seem to have a heavy contingent of hippies. Also some hipsters, some bikers, some boaters, some old folks, some young folks, some tourists and some regular-tourists. Lots of cool quotations and sayings posted all over the establishment. Leans left of center, but they serve right-wingers too. Not a whole lot of drinking and dining establishments on the Island. Tom's is most definitely an institution where the tourists flock. Second time there. Both times have managed to strike up a conversation with fellow patrons. Like me and most everyone else at Tom's, they are from someplace else but they have been to Tom's many, many more times than me. Tom's has groupies! After winding up a trip around the island on moped, stopped in it at Tom's for a couple before taking the ferry back to the mainland. Ordered a Red Stripe. $4.50. Sat down on a bench next to a young couple and an older couple that seemed to be in a group. The older gentleman was about to take a picture of the other three who were all saying they wanted him in the picture. He said I can't take the picture and be in it, but I bet this guy would would take the picture (pointing at me). Sure, no problem. Took the picture, and handed them my Ansel Adams-like work. Noticed the younger lady was wearing a Minnesota Twins t-shirt. Asked her where in the cities they were from, she said Eagan. Right on, I used to live in Inver Grove Heights. She said that the other couple lives in River Falls. Get out of town! I live in River Falls now. Not only were they were from River Falls, but the guy who was asking me to take the picture is the mayor of River Falls! Small world, eh? Mr. Mayor had a red Badgers t-shirt on with the sleeves cut off and was drinking a beer. Nice to know that me and the mayor have common interests. Super nice guy. Chatted for several minutes about the hometown before I had to excuse myself to get back on the 7:30 ferry to the mainland. Check it out my fellow Yelpers! You never know who you will meet at Tom's. read more

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Didn't get to stop for a drink, but I can tell it's a damn good time with a lot of humor inside. read more

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This is such a fun and cool spot to finish they day off with some tasty drinks. Whether that is a beer, a cheap as margarita or something for the more fancy pants in your group, you'll find something at Toms. So sit down, mask up, and have a nice time. read more

Rain or shine, no matter what, Tom's is one of my favorite places to be! Tom's is a cornerstone establishment on Madeline Island that gives off a Key West of the North/Jimmy Buffett concert vibe. It's kitschy, but cool without trying all that hard. It's the shag carpet of bars - in the best way. You can truly be on vacation at Tom's - but watch out - the drinks are so good and so strong that you'll be swaying on your way out. Enjoy!! read more

Does not open at 12PM as is stated on there web site. Got there at 1:15 and was told to come back in 15 minutes. Came back at 1:30 and asked if they would be opening soon. The server was disrespectful and said it maybe be thirty minutes. We got on the fairy and left. I will not be going back. The place looked like a homeless shelter. It's a dump. read more

Someone took Sanford and Son's place and added a bar and made it open air. Dirty loud and unappealing. I guess it is good people watching but it just looks nasty to me. Not sure what the hype is. read more

This place IS NOT a dive bar. A dive bar would be vast improvement. I felt that I needed to have my shots updated before entering, and I don't mean Covid. This place should be closed and burned to the ground. read more

Drinks and music in a very cool vibe. If you're looking for something fancy, look elsewhere. This place is just a laid back, ramshackle dive bar that hits all the right notes. Enjoy! read more

GREAT BAR- I spent the weekend on Madeline Island and one of the best bars on the Island is Tom's Burndown bar. When you walk up to the bar it looks like there is just a trailer with a big great and white tarp tent over a wooden deck. But after spending time reading the funny quotes and off the wall humor that is on all the signs and t-shirts, you will fine yourself spending hours just hanging out and having a great time. Things that you should know about this place before you go. Dress for the weather, the bar is more outside that in. Plus you must have cash there is only 2 ATM on the Island and the store right next to Tom's bar will help you out if you are running low. read more

Tom's Burned Down Cafe - Music Venues Near Me - La Pointe, Wisconsin

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F- IN EH !!!! You haven't been to Madeline Island if you haven't been to Toms.To say it is colorful is an understatement. The décor is one of a kind, with stuff EVERYWHERE. And Tomisms everywhere. Apparently there was a car parked by the original establishment during the fire. After, it was easier to build a deck over and around it. Yup, it wasn't hurtin no one. Be sure to go see the car. I have been here 4 times, and I always find something new to read on the walls. I brought my co workers from England and Arkansas here, and they were downright in awe. I promised them the coolest bar they had ever been in, and I delivered. The following year we had my daughter's bachelorette party at a nearby campground, and of course we ended up here. She walked around with a tiara with little peniuses on it and people didn't even blink. I love this bar. The hippie crowd complete with dreadlocks and muscles from doing extreme outdoor sports were the exact same types at the diviest bar in the ski resort I work at in the winter. Park City Utah. Oh, to be so carefree......... pass me the joint, quit beaugarding it. I hate to break it to all the Illinois people that raved about this place, but when you see FIB written all over, it is Madeline Island code for " Fu___ng Illinios Bas___ds. Ouch. Really. But I am sure they like your money. You know these anti-establishment types. I T I S W O R T H T H E F E R R Y R I D E O V E R T O C O M E H E R E read more

This was such a unique find for us while we were docked for the evening. After renting mopeds for the afternoon, we stopped in here for a refreshing drink. They had some unique specials which I enjoyed trying - never had tequila and lemonade before! My mother-in-law tried their Bloody Mary as well and she was happy with it. It's such a funny place with all the sayings and weird trinkets everywhere, but definitely a must-see. They have some pizza options (I overheard) and there was a food truck on the front lawn. Very reasonably priced, too! It took a little extra effort to get the bartender's attention, but there are worse things! read more

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Was here on Wed 7/6. There was a reggae dj that night so it was great vacation music and ambiance. The place was busy, but not too crowded that you couldn't move. They had an open outdoor fire stove around a bench seating area. There are fun signs to read everywhere! We had a couple of the Rachelli's Deli pizzas; vegetarian supreme and the kickin chicken. The vegetarian had a mozzarella stuffed crust and was pretty good. The kickin chicken had a cream cheese and jalapeno stuffed crust. Phenomenal! It was a little spicy and reminded us of a jalapeno popper. Next time we're on the island we will definitely stop by Tom's again! read more

An awesome one of a kind place & experience. Unlike any other place I have ever been. The people are great, love all the words of wisdom written all over the place. If you get to Madeline Island a stop at Tom's is definitely a must! read more

Oh, Toms.... What a cool place. Went there the day after school let out last year and had a salty dog (tequila and lemonade) to celebrate the start of summer. Ahhhhh. It's very eclectic and unique. You'll spend many minutes reading the signs. Just awesome. read more

Tom's Burned Down Cafe - salty dog!! - Music Venues Near Me - La Pointe, Wisconsin

Seriously the coolest cafe / bar that I have ever been! Madmax meets Sanford & Son meets Borderlands! A must visit when on Madeline Island read more

Tom's Burned Down Cafe - Music Venues Near Me - La Pointe, Wisconsin

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Very relaxed atmosphere, outstanding drinks and endless artist eye candy Highly recommend checking this place out! read more

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This place is perfect! It is a magnificent mess! I think I was there for a half hour before I realized I was sitting atop a Cadillac....

We stopped in for our first time after hearing so many fun things over the years. We were promptly treated by a young boy(doubtful old enough to even be working there) and told we don't open until 11. No offer to sit down. We will be right with you. We are still setting up. Even the women behind the bar and old man ignored us. As we turned to leave I looked at my watch. It was 1056. Yeah. They clearly didn't want or care for our business and we will be happy to not give it to them. What a huge disappointment. read more

This is one of the coolest places I have ever been. Keep your expectations in check - this is not a fancy place by any means. As far as I noticed it was bar service, cash only. The bartenders were really friendly and remembered us when we returned. It's a hodgepodge of old junk and crazy signs. It really is a burned down restaurant. They have some pizzas and candy bars. Great people watching. I could spend all day there reading the signs. read more

Stopped by here today because of good reviews which are clearly from family and friends. The inside is a dump. What a mess! It's a complete junkyard, hodgepodge of garbage picked furniture and decor. They were clearly trying to do eclectic and got crappy instead. I was afraid to touch anything or sit on the chairs for fear of the germs. We walked in and someone was getting their head shaved on the patio. Seriously. We sat down and waited for any of the hippie-wanna-be's to serve us. No one even acknowledged us. After 10 mins, we left. There are other, nicer, customer friendly places on the island. Honestly this place looks like a bunch of junk held together with duct tape, nails and glue, and a staph infection waiting to happen. It's not cute or neat or anything. Skip it. read more

I've known The Thom since 1979. To all those haters in these reviews who can't understand why we on the island wouldn't burn this place down because it's so horrible, believe me, WE TRIED! Twice Baked is what we used to call it. Tommy took the old Leona's building (raise your hand if you remember) and moved it downtown in the early 90s and opened a year-round cafe. When it burned down late one night the next day Tommy's pulled up a flatbed truck to the still smoldering deck and was open the next day. Then again a few years later it burned, but to no avail! We're still here! If you can't get this place then maybe just stay home. It's the best beach bar in all the US if not the world. If you miss it, you lose, losers! read more

Best bar within 500 miles. The first time I walked in, there was a large blonde woman passed out face-down on the floor. A dog was crouched beside her, licking the side of her face. As I walked up to the bar, the 'tender must've noticed my raised eyebrow, to which he responded "She does that all the time." Drinks are very strong and affordable for the island. Strange things happen at Tom's. If you're dainty or Victorian or douchebaggy, go have a cup of tea at one of the B & B that dot the island and point your pinky toward heaven. read more

This is the dive bar to end all dive bars. For two years I heard of the legend of the Burn Down but you've got to go there to believe it. First, you do have to take the ferry to go to Madeline just allow an hour if you're making plans on the island. Living on the island is not for the faint of heart. It's cold, it's hot, it's windy, it rains and that's just the summer time. The Burndown has all of the great qualities of a dive bar. Characters, Cheap Beer, Great live music, Fantastic Art, Quotations on the wall, Camaraderie, and Wi-Fi. (OK, while the last one is true, I guess not every dive bar needs it.) For real, in three nights we saw a country band, a reggae DJ and some great rock. We partied with some fun bikers, a bride and a groom in wedding garb, a golf pro and some members of our nation's military, all in the same night. I even accidentally stalked Senator Feingold. Every night you go will be different. Hang out and dig the locals. read more

We came, we drank, we enjoyed. We looked across the street and saw you could rent bikes. We left for 2 hours, and came right back. Biking makes you thirsty. We got back just in time for a huge monsoon to sweep through. This place is outside. Nothing stops, they just pull the tarps up that kept us about 60% dry, and they carry on. People still run to the bar for more booze, and you're just crammed close together. A great way to make some new friends. read more