I needed to grab a drink before I went in to see a band at the Orpheum and would have to spend 6 or 7 bucks on a PBR. I'm not unfamiliar with Madison, but I've never been anywhere on this block. I walked past it with a couple of friends (including one friend who has lived in town for the past couple years), and we decided to give it a try.
The coolest thing about this bar is the tree. There's a huge tree in the middle of the bar with nice lights on it. It looks awesome and might even ensure I come back. Other than that, the bar is pretty dark and the rest of the decor doesn't really seem to mesh well. It kind of feels like a sports bar combined with a hipster hangout. Luckily, I am somewhat of a hipster and I am really into sports.
Beer was a touch overpriced, but nothing too bad. They had a pretty great selection too. Mixed drinks were pretty cheap ($4.50 for a rum & coke), but not particularly strong. The place was pretty full for a Sunday evening (and no one was even watching the football game).
The crowd was a little older than I was expecting. Everyone looked to be 30+. Maybe it was just the night I went, but I'm 22 and I felt like a baby. Beyond that, I don't know what it was about everyone, but it felt kinda awkward.
Overall? Probably will return, especially to avoid spending my whole paycheck on drinks at the Orpheum.