French elegance meets Madison casual cool...Sardine is in my top three favorite restaurants in Madison. Lively bar, great view, fun easy-going hosts/hostesses and waiters/waitresses, and rocking food.
Best mussels I think I've ever had (and this is not something I run around joking about). I love the soups, the salads, and my favorite - the truffled pasta.
One suggestion for improvement - the wine list could do with more variety in the $35-50 range.
My only true criticism (and I realize this will go in the "pro" column for most readers) is that they have a lot of pork going on in there. It's hard to escape it in the menu and in the smell.
But don't let that deter you. If you are looking for perfectly executed foody food with a uniquely Madison approach, you found your destination.