Paisan's isn't "fine dining"... but its a "mighty fine" place to dine. You may not be 'wowed' by Paisans food, but I don't think you'll be disappointed either. The Porta salad with chunks of cheese, garbanzo beans, and salami, remains one of my favorite salads in all of Madison. In fact, you can purchase it in some Madison-area deli's. The pizza has a thin crust and plenty of flavor. The sourdough bread is warm and tasty. The spicy cheese bread is delicious. If you like seafood, try the seafood tetrazini. More into pasta? Try their half and half ravioli combo. Looking for a sandwich? Try the Garibaldi.
ALWAYS order an affordable pitcher of red or white sangria with your meal and/or while you wait for a table.
It's a great place for a casual date or for dining in large groups. There are lots of semi private nooks and crannies to sit. They provide classic Italian food in a casual environment at an affordable price. In this way, its true to its roots: The restaurant used to be located on campus, but relocated decades to make way for new campus construction.