This is one of my favorite cafes in the Madison area to come and spend a leisurely day. The store offers up the usual menu of coffee drinks, plus salads, bakery, a few sandwiches, and an extensive selection of quiches from LMNO'Pies--not to mention a store full of kitting supplies. Come any time of day and you will be sure to find someone knitting while sipping their coffee, or maybe a large group of women babbling about their latest kitting projects. (If you're a knitter be sure to check out the occasional class offerings and group meetings.) All in all The Sow's Ear offers a very down-home, comfy feel.
The coffee drinks are well-prepared and the drip coffee is from Ancora (Madison-based roaster). The mocha smoothie is well worth three dollars if you're looking for a sweet treat. And the quiches are always excellent. Be prepared to wait more than a few minutes if you order food, especially if you come at a busy time. But always worth the wait, and the prices are hard to beat. The staff is always friendly and helpful.
Free wireless is available and there is plenty of sitting space to relax with a book, knit, sip or eavesdrop. Or all of the above!