This is the cutest place EVER!!!
My boyfriend and I chanced upon it a few years ago when we stayed at Cameo Rose (another 5* business). The Cameo Rose host directed us to Paoli Schoolhouse and told us her guests visit there for lunch and dinner.
So where's this gem? Well, its only 15 minutes away from downtown Madison! I would say it's as far as Middleton is..!!
Yes, I'm kinda debating whether I want it to become as crowded as those restaurants downtown and Middleton... But, it's such a wonderful place it is injustice if I don't share it..! Do make reservations on holidays, the place does fill up..
Come on over! This place was previously a schoolhouse and now remodeled into a quaint little shop and romantic place for dinner.
I really liked the crabcakes and stuffed mushroom to start. Then the pork tenderloin my boyfriend had was great! My friend also really enjoyed the salmon. For me, the chicken cordon bleu was a little disappointing as it was dry (I'm sorry but I AM a chicken snob.) but the flavorful taste and delicious polenta was enough to save the dish.
Lots of local wine and drinks. The waitress kept filling us up with bread and honey butter. YES, honey butter! you can't get enough of it!! When it took too long to serve our food cos of the huge crowd, she offered to get our drinks! So sweet.
I would definitely recommend this place if you're looking for a tasty gem that isn't packed with hungry wolves (unlike the square on weekends). Very romantic and guaranteed to please the lady :)