By Austin Sheehan

When it comes to satisfying your burger cravings in Madison, you'll find a wide range of options, with over 300 bars and many more restaurants. While I haven't had the chance to try them all, I'd like to share a few of my personal recommendations for the three best burger spots in Madison. I believe that different burgers may taste better on different days, so I've not ranked these in any particular order. 

Dotty Dumpling's Dowry

• Address: 317 N Frances Street, Madison, WI 

• Burger: The Classic 

• Price: $10.99 

Despite what its name might suggest, Dotty Dumpling's Dowry is not a dumpling restaurant but a historic burger joint. As you step through the door, you're welcomed into a dimly lit interior adorned with memorabilia that transports you back in time. 

What I Loved About It:

I decided to keep it simple with “The Classic,” and it did not disappoint. Served in a wicker basket lined with parchment paper, the thick patty was cooked to perfection. Each bite was a delightful experience. The cheddar cheese melting over the juicy meat, complemented by ketchup, mustard, pickles, and a choice of grilled or raw onions. It's a straightforward burger that excels in quality and flavor. 

A Brief History:

Dotty's has a unique history dating back to 1974 when Jeff Stanley moved the establishment to Madison setting up shop on Monroe St. Over the years, it has relocated several times, each move adding to its rich history. Despite challenges, including an eminent domain issue in 2001 that made way for what is currently the Overture Center, Dotty's has remained a beloved Madison institution, currently residing on N Frances Street since 2003. 

The Plaza Tavern

• Address: 319 N Henry St, Madison, WI 

• Burger: The Plaza Burger 

• Price: $7.00 

The Plaza Tavern is a fine example of a classic dive bar, offering a straightforward atmosphere that is both welcoming and nostalgic. With a combination of mismatched textures and colours, softly fading lights, and classic green faux-leather stools, it's a place where time seems to stand still. 

What I Loved About It:

Ordering is straightforward. Just head up to the bar and ask for the Plaza Burger. Served simply with pickles on a small paper plate, it doesn't get simpler than this. But the real star is the renowned Plaza Sauce, a deliciously creamy secret concoction that elevates the burger to a whole new level. The sauce melts in your mouth, making you pause to appreciate how something so simple can taste so amazing. 

A Brief History:

The Plaza Tavern boasts a storied past dating back to the Prohibition era. It's rumored to have served the first beers in the area, operating as a speakeasy adjacent to a pool hall. Over the years, it has been a favorite spot for notable figures like Bill Murray, Johnny Cash, and several Wisconsin governors, adding to its charm and legacy. 

The Coopers Tavern

• Address: 20 W. Mifflin, Madison, WI 

• Burger: Coopers Burger 

• Price: $16.00 

Situated just steps from Wisconsin's Capitol building at the top of State Street, The Coopers Tavern offers a cozy yet slightly upscale casual environment. The warm, relaxed atmosphere of is complemented by an outdoor patio that provides a magnificent view of the Capitol during the warmer months. 

What I Loved About It:

The Coopers Burger is, without a doubt, one of the best I've ever had. The ground steak patty was cooked to perfection and full of flavor. Topped with aged cheddar, bacon, lettuce, onion, mayonnaise, and pickles, all nestled in a soft brioche bun. Its blend of high-quality, fresh ingredients might make it a little pricier, the taste makes it worth every penny. 

A Brief History:

Opened in January 2010, The Coopers Tavern has quickly become a staple in Madison's dining scene with the vision of bringing a unique gastropub experience to the heart of the city. 

Final Thoughts

Each of these establishments offers a unique ambiance and a burger that's hard to beat. So… if you find yourself within the range of WSUM's airwaves and craving a top-notch burger, you now should know exactly where to head.