Ok yeah there is really nothing around here within walking distance of the hotel. They have a good selection of beers on tap and the food isn't really that bad. The bar tenders (especially Jo) treats you well when you are here. They basically run the entire place later in the night and do a good job at it.
Would I come out of my way to get here if I was in Madison? No. But will I go here if I am staying either at the Shereton or Holiday in? Of course. Where else can I stumble, err, walk home from?