Oscar Villarreal’s restaurant was inspired by the experiences of his childhood
Oscar Villarreal remembers “the good days” of his childhood — time spent working on a farm with family under the beautiful sun and enjoying meals with others.
Madison Magazine - August 2021
Cherry-pick design elements from this town of Westport home’s bathroom for your next project
The bar has risen in bathroom design in recent years, and this town of Westport home showcases recent trends and rules that were just waiting to be broken.
4 Madison spots well-known for waffles
Satisfy cravings for expertly ironed waffles with these cafes around town.
8 cozy Madison cafes to add to your weekly rotation
These local spots with delectable coffee, pastries and light meals give Madison’s dining scene even more personality.
Madison Conservatory deliberately deemphasizes classical music’s largely white history
Music educator Melanie de Jesus, founder and director of Madison Conservatory, is challenging the traditional paradigm to make music education more inclusive for all students.
New app harnesses artificial intelligence to support fitness enthusiasts and coaches
Zihi promises to be “the world’s first adaptive and truly personalized training platform for runners.”
We can do more
As the country grapples with a racial reckoning, local activists, organizers and officials weigh in on Madison’s documented disparities and what criminal justice reform could mean here.
Little John’s uses a pay-what-you-can structure to help those facing food insecurity
Little John’s was designed to create sustainable solutions so that good food is always accessible no matter the circumstances.
Meet Forward Madison FC's new coach, Carl Craig
Forward Madison FC’s new coach is a free-thinking Englishman with a punk rock past and a bent for inclusivity.
4 Jefferson County food stands you need to hit before summer's over
Lake Mills, Jefferson and Fort Atkinson are home to four seasonal stands boasting hot dogs, burgers, frozen treats and more.
Maker behind Madison Glassworks creates modern stained glass art
Rebecca DeKuiper's art deco style updates an ancient craft.
Dr. Kai Shiu is a friend to pets and vets
Veterinary oncologist Dr. Kai Shiu’s family expected him to be a physician like the rest of them, but his love for animals won out.
Editor's note: The best is BACK
Our last Best of Madison issue was sent to the printer on March 8, 2020 — six days later, the world shut down.
Best of Madison 2021 Winners
When 2020 handed out lemons, this year's winners gave us their best. This year we honor 458 businesses in our readers’ poll and 13 awards from our editors.
2021 Best of Madison Editors' Picks
Our editorial team, comprised of editor Andrea Behling and associate editors Maggie Ginsberg and Maija Inveiss, picked some businesses, initiatives and people that have stood out over the past year.
