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| - There are lots of mediocre reviews of this place, and lots are from 2010 or so. I've been there 5 times in the past 6 months, and felt like I finally had to write a review.
We usually go for lunch on the weekend. It's never crowded, and we have always had great service. Prompt, friendly, attentive.
I've had several things here. Although it's not on the menu right now (the menu rotates) their calamari salad is excellent - and they will make it for you if you request it even off menu. It combines beautifully fried calamari with a light tempura batter on greens (romaine and escarole if I recall) and a spicy dressing. It is such a large dish that we split it (which they happily do for you) and still each have a large salad with about 12-14 pieces of calamari EACH.
For lunch on Saturday, the pizzas are half price. I like the thin crust, and my son loved his pizza that he created with prosciutto and sausage.
For the past few months, at lunch time they have a burger, and it is one of the best burgers we have had in Madison. It is better than the burger right next door at DLUX, by a long shot. It's cooked perfectly, on a brioche bun, with a slice of crisped fresh mozzarella (yep, you heard that right) and bacon jam (again, yes). It is a brilliant mix of flavors and textures, but it is only available for lunch. One note - I have them hold the tomato and greens, as I think it made the burger too juicy for the bun. It's my only complaint, and easily fixed.
They also have some excellent desserts. Their apple tart (or whatever fancy Italian name they give it) is excellent. The pastry crust is fabulous, with great flavor and texture, and the apples are well cooked. If you love pies and tarts largely for the crust (like me) this one is a must-try.
Overall, we have never been disappointed with this place. It's one of our favorites now.
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