I want to make it clear that in any true city, Sardine would get a four-star review from me, but as I become increasingly disenchanted with the Madison dining experience, Sardine honestly stands out among the very best.
I've been here thrice: once for dinner and wine; once for cocktails only; and once for their "happy hour," which includes half-price oysters. Oh, I'm sorry -- did I not mention there are oysters? THERE ARE OYSTERS. And they are delicious. And anywhere where they are both delicious and half-price sort of deserves five stars for that reason alone. If you like oysters, go. Now.
The other food I've tried there was pretty darn good. The duck salad was the best -- really delicious. The grilled scallops, also delish. And the entrees were perfectly lovely; I believe we had the trout and the duck. The cheese plate and charcuterie were just fine.
Their specialty cocktails are also a highlight. Don't miss them if you like good-tasting, strong drinks! Pair them with the half-price OYSTERS at happy hour!
I'll definitely be back to Sardine sometime soon. It's a diamond in the increasingly-rough rough.