The best cafes in Madison

6 cafes we’ve checked and stand behind — with the story on each one. Not a ranking; a record.

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Cafes · 6 places · showing the latest additions first

Forward Craft & Coffee

Cafes

Craft beer and coffee are offered at this laid-back joint that's popular with freelancers.

2166 Atwood Ave

“Craft beer and coffee are offered at this laid-back joint that's popular with freelancers.”

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Broken Board Coffee

Cafes

Specialty coffee is served at this casual cafe located inside Focus Boardshop.

2358 E Springs Dr

“Specialty coffee is served at this casual cafe located inside Focus Boardshop.”

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Madison Chocolate Company

Cafes

Madison Chocolate Company is the neighborhood spot for house-made chocolates, gluten-free cookies that actually taste like dessert, flaky…

5521 Odana Rd

“Madison Chocolate Company is the neighborhood spot for house-made chocolates, gluten-free cookies that actually taste like dessert, flaky croissants, and espresso drinks. Swing by this week for a mid-afternoon morale boost or a little treat-yourself moment that makes Monday feel like Friday.”

From the Madison newsletter, August 7, 2026

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Marigold Kitchen

Cafes

Bright, counter-serve eatery featuring creative breakfast & lunch fare plus outdoor seating.

118 S Pinckney St

“Bright, counter-serve eatery featuring creative breakfast & lunch fare plus outdoor seating.”

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Lazy Jane's Cafe and Bakery

Cafes

Quirky, cash-only, counter-serve American spot for breakfast & lunch fare plus signature scones.

1358 Williamson St

“Quirky, cash-only, counter-serve American spot for breakfast & lunch fare plus signature scones.”

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Java Cat Coffee House

Cafes

Coffeehouse with a feline theme & WiFi serving java, homemade gelato, breakfast fare & baked goods.

4221 Lien Rd

“Coffeehouse with a feline theme & WiFi serving java, homemade gelato, breakfast fare & baked goods.”

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