We went to Tempest during winter restaurant week. There were so many choices but my husband was all over the blue marlin on the menu.
After a very wintery walk...it was -5 degrees that night, the entrance was warm and inviting. We were a little confused walking into the bar/waiting area. We didn't realize that the actual bar the past the drapes. I don't think that's the Tempest's fault but I was intimidated. That's my own thing.
We thought the reception area was too small and crowded. However, we were seated quickly and in the main dining area. The ambiance was warm and stale.
We were served quickly and the food was delightful. The she crab soup was delicious but sweet. My salmon was perfect and the blue Merlin was seared to perfection.
You know, there are so many restaurants in Madison. Tempest is an oyster bar which is foolish is Wisconsin. However, there was a couple eating a stack of oysters and it look delicious. And they looked happy.
I'd go back.