The Botanist Social

“The Botanist Social is a sparkling example of a downtown bar blending "cool" and "comforting" from the first sip to the last bite. We started with the teacup whimsy of the Mad Hatter, making our way through to the featured mezcal gin and tonic with the juicy ribeye dinner, dessert by way of their After The Opera, extending our stay with the spicy-smokey Love Affair, and completing with the smoothest Americano I've sipped in years. Abby and the rest of the staff were knowledgeable, friendly, and set a lovely mood for a weary traveller in this stylish and relaxed downtown Madison delight.”

“Turn the lights down low, grab a date and let’s go! Yes, seriously the lights are turned down a little creating a neat atmosphere. My date (beautiful wife) and I stopped in on March evening and the hostess said they were full with reservations and a birthday party but she went above and beyond and got us a table for 2. We started with the salmon bruschetta and the pain killer drink - both fantastic. My lovely lady got the mushroom risotto and she said it was the best she’s ever tasted. I had the sausage flatbread pizza and it was fantastic. They have good deserts here or stop by next door at Kilwins. The staff really went above and beyond for us!”

“THE SALMON BRUSCHETTA IS TO DIE FOR!!! One of my pictures includes it after we have already eaten two of the four, haha. Great atmosphere and our waitress was great as well. We were here for our anniversary and we were given chocolates and a free dessert or shot, and we opted for the bread pudding. I got the lobster roll which was good, perhaps not my style but I still finished it! My boyfriend got the Pappardelle Pasta which he enjoyed as well”

“Went here with 2 others prior to a show at Overture. We had a reservation and were immediately seated. The restaurant is long and narrow with the bar taking up one side. Very nice atmosphere. We each had a speciality drink; painkiller, clover club, and proprietary knowledge. Cheese curd appetizer which was yummy. Entrees included the lobster roll with truffle fries, shrimp risotto special and campanelle pasta. All our food was outstanding. Service was excellent. I recommend checking this place out.”

“We really wanted to try this place and ended up coming with our two kids, even though it’s not especially kid-centric. The staff was incredibly accommodating—while there’s no kids menu, our waitress suggested great kid-friendly options and modifications from the regular menu. The drinks were amazing, the food was delicious, and we were seated right away with our reservation. Overall, a great experience—perfect for cocktails or hanging out with friends, and the crème brûlée was my favorite .”