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Best Restaurants for Special Occasions in Madison

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12 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Eno Vino Downtown restaurant
1. Eno Vino Downtown
4.7
Exceptional(2222)
Price: Expensive
• Bistro • Madison
Booked 47 times today
Eno Vino Downtown is the perfect spot for special occasions. Reviews rave about the "great food," "excellent service," and "outstanding" ambiance. Many guests have chosen it for wedding anniversaries and celebrations, praising its "great atmosphere" and "outstanding views." The restaurant is also lauded for its extensive wine list and creative, hand-crafted cocktails. It's a place where you can enjoy a romantic dinner, relaxed drinks, or just unwind during happy hour.
A photo of Merchant restaurant
2. Merchant
4.3
Awesome(1584)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Madison
Booked 30 times today
Merchant is Madison's energetic industrial-chic cafe, craft cocktail bar and late night destination specializing in no-nonsense, affordable fare and drink steeped in old school culture and soul.Our menu features elevated American classics like shrimp cakes, steaks, burgers, and mac and cheese. As Madison’s first craft cocktail bar, our drink list includes twists on classic cocktails using fresh ingredients and heritage spirits, fresh innovative non-alcoholic drinks, and wines from boutique producers, fresh beers on tap, and heritage beers.
A photo of Draper Brother's Chophouse restaurant
3. Draper Brother's Chophouse
4.5
Awesome(228)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • Madison
Booked 10 times today
Step back in time to 1867 when the Draper Brothers founded their renowned meat house in the heart of Madison. Their passion for quality and taste quickly made them the region's go-to destination for the finest cuts of meat. Nestled within the walls of the iconic building that was once home to the renowned House of Wisconsin Cheese and Blue Marlin, our stunning interior design celebrates the building's rich history while introducing a new level of elegance and sophistication to Madison's culinary scene.Sink into our plush, comfortable seating, bask in the warm glow of soft lighting, and enjoy impeccable service that attends to your every need. If you're looking for an intimate evening for two, a celebratory night out with friends, or a sophisticated venue for a special occasion, our restaurant provides the perfect ambiance to create unforgettable memories.
A photo of Samba Brazilian Grill restaurant
4. Samba Brazilian Grill
4.5
Awesome(1017)
Price: Very Expensive
• Brazilian Steakhouse • Madison
Booked 25 times today
For those of you who are not current or former gauchos who roam the prairies of Brazil, you might need an explanation of our style of service. At the end on a long day of work tending to cattle and stock, Brazilian cowboys (Gauchos) and their families would prepare great feasts. They would skewer various meats, roast them over a fire pit and bring them to the table for carving. There would be a bounty of seasonal vegetables, stews and salads using fresh ingredients from the fruits of their labor.
A photo of Bonfyre American Grille restaurant
5. Bonfyre American Grille
4.7
Exceptional(2375)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • Madison
Booked 19 times today
Bonfyre features Contemporary American Cuisine in an upscale-casual environment. In addition to our hand-cut, wood-fired steaks, guests can enjoy fresh seafood, rotisserie chicken, pastas, signature salads and so much more from our seasonally changing menu.To complement the cuisine, Bonfyre’s bar features classic cocktails with a modern twist, creative new libations, domestic craft beer selections and a wine list consisting of 60 labels from both North and South America.
A photo of Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant - Middleton, WI restaurant
6. Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant - Middleton, WI
4.6
Exceptional(574)
Price: Moderate
• American • Middleton
Booked 58 times today
Experience the perfect fusion of award-winning wines, Napa-style tasting rooms, and modern casual dining at Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurants. Enjoy contemporary American cuisine influenced by international flavors from our scratch kitchen. Each dish is expertly paired with our selection of wines for the best food and wine match. Whether you explore the tasting room for a pre- or post-dinner adventure or join the world's largest wine club, we believe in the power of food and wine to create lasting connections. Dining reservations are highly recommended, but walk-in guests are always welcome on a first-come, first-serve basis. Gluten-free and vegetarian dishes are available.
A photo of Ruth's Chris Steak House - Middleton restaurant
7. Ruth's Chris Steak House - Middleton
4.7
Exceptional(1188)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • Madison
Booked 10 times today
One day call-in advanced reservation is required for Wine Dinners, all guests must order from Wine Dinner Menu, no substitutions.For reservations on holidays, 20% GRATUITY WILL BE ADDED TO ALL CHECKSFor parties of 6 or more, please call the restaurant and ask to speak with a manager.For parties of 5 or more, gratuity of 18% will be included.***Separate Checks will not be accepted for parties of 9 or more***Ruths Chris Steak House serves the finest aged, corn-fed USDA Prime beef. Broiled in a trademark 1,800° oven & served on a plate heated to 500 degrees, your steak is presented sizzling hot at your table.Additionally, the menu includes select fresh seafood & other meat entrees. A variety of fresh-cooked vegetables, including seven kinds of potatoes, salads, homemade desserts & an extensive selection of over 100 domestic & imported wines complete your dining experience. Ruths Chris never fails to please
A photo of Eno Vino West Side restaurant
8. Eno Vino West Side
4.7
Exceptional(1390)
Price: Expensive
• Tapas / Small Plates • Madison
Booked 8 times today
Eno Vino offers 200+ wines by the bottle & another 45 by the glass. From the beginning, Eno Vino was established as a place to share great wine, sensational, hand-crafted cocktails and fresh, inviting food. Whether you would like to entertain friends, enjoy an evening out with a loved one or unwind during happy hour ~ we invite you to enjoy an evening at Eno Vino! Kitchen serves a late night menu from 9pm-10pm Sunday through Thursday, and from 10pm-11pm Friday and Saturday. The bar is open until 11pm Monday through Thursday and until midnight Friday and Saturday.
A photo of The Mariner's Inn restaurant
9. The Mariner's Inn
4.8
Exceptional(1857)
Price: Moderate
• American • Madison
Booked 10 times today
When Bill and Betty Von Rutenberg opened The Mariner’s Inn in 1966, they set out to provide a steak and seafood dining experience like none other. Mouth watering, delicious steaks aged to perfection and an assortment of seafood from lobster to the famous Friday Fish Fry.Bill and Betty’s sons, Bill, Jack, and Robert, along with their crew, now carry on the tradition of outstanding hospitality of von Rutenberg Ventures. Waterfront dining on the patio and a sunset over the marina make dinner at Mariner’s an evening to remember. We offer five options for dining. Dine-in, expanded outdoor seating, carryout, curbside, and dockside. Try our monthly summer Lobster Boil. You can now enjoy the lobster boils by dine-in or takeout! Advance reservations required.To make a reservation that is larger then 8 people please call us.
A photo of Villa Dolce restaurant
10. Villa Dolce
4.8
Exceptional(649)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Middleton
Booked 8 times today
A modern Italian cafe in the heart of downtown historic Middleton. With a contemporary vibe this fusion Italian gem features unique topping gourmet pizzas, handmade pasta and famous Gelato.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Justin
    Wisconsin •1 review
    4.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Eno Vino was very accommodating, we were running a bit late. Staff was very nice and the atmosphere was amazing. It got quite busy and the noise isn't that bad but definitely noticeable during peak times. That's not a problem in my opinion though. Food was good, id have to try more next time to get a better grasp of everything they have.
    More info
    Eno Vino DowntownPrice: Expensive• Bistro• Madison
    •
    4.7
  • leigh
    Greater Boston •2 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Great drink, great burger…liked the deviled eggs, did not love!
    More info
    MerchantPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Madison
    •
    4.3
  • Bonedoc79VIP
    Chicago / Illinois •13 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Fabulous meal in a really fun setting. Our server was delightful. Food was really over the top great and not just typical steakhouse fare. It what I would call cheap but I feel like we very much received what we paid for. The plating of the dishes was really well done as well. Very thoughtfully put together.
    More info
    Draper Brother's ChophousePrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• Madison
    •
    4.5
  • lisa
    Chicago / Illinois •13 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Absolutely Amazing Dinner and Service. The Staff is always so friendly and welcoming. The Steaks,Scallops and Salads are always so flavorful and delicious. Best Restaurant in Madison and enjoy our food every time.
    More info
    Bonfyre American GrillePrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Madison
    •
    4.7
  • Carrie
    Chicago / Illinois •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Mar 2, 2025
    Samba's is an elegant restaurant with very tasty and high quality cuisine. We were two couples enjoying the food and atmosphere. All was nice except for there could be a little bit more lighting at the tables. I had a hard time viewing the menu and reviewing the check. Otherwise, I would suggest it.
    More info
    Samba Brazilian GrillPrice: Very Expensive• Brazilian Steakhouse• Madison
    •
    4.5

Discover best special occasions restaurants in Madison

Madison, Wisconsin boasts a vibrant dining scene that caters to a variety of special occasions, offering an array of restaurants that blend impeccable service with distinctive atmospheres. Perfect for celebrating milestones, romantic dinners, or upscale gatherings, these venues emphasize a commitment to culinary excellence and a memorable guest experience. Many establishments feature elegant interiors and are praised for their attentive, friendly staff, ensuring that each visit is special. The city's restaurants are known for their diverse menus, including gourmet cuisine and expertly crafted cocktails, making them ideal spots for any celebratory event. From quiet, cozy settings to lively, scenic views, Madison's dining options provide the perfect backdrop for making lasting memories. These restaurants not only uphold a high standard of quality but also reflect the unique charm of Madison, making them standout choices for residents and visitors alike seeking a special dining experience.

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