The Dish Fall 2022

THE DISH

COMFORT FOOD

A sneak peek into our favorites in Madison, WI.

Recipes & More

Sarah

Flaum, Allie Bell, Abby Altman, Jordyn Paszamont, Sarah Fieldman, Ila Schrecker, Miranda Poradeck, Ava Thorson, Kate Rautbort, Charlotte Khuzami Izzy Wellisch, Brooke Bednoff, Darcy Troyanovsky

Bednoff, Darcy Troyanovsky, Ava Thorson, Riley Deutsch, Caroline McLoughlin, Illa Schrecker, Bella Flaum, Hannah Gilli, Rachael Getreu

Letter from the Editor

Dear Readers,

As I transitioned into my first semester as the Editor in Chief of the Dish, I wanted to start off on a strong note. To me, that meant picking a theme that I felt in touch with- something that was relatable and comfortable

After some time spent brainstorming, the idea of comfort food came along. It was perfect. Simple, relatable to everyone, delicious, fun, and dare I say, comforting.

Think warm- think being teleported back to your younger self with no worries. College is hard, it's demanding and it's stressful. Nothing felt more perfect as we transition back into being away from home during the fall semester, and fall out of the warm sunshine of summer, into the bitter chill of a Wisconsin winter When no one else is there for you, food is

According to the Oxford dictionary, comfort food can be defined as “food that provides consolation or a feeling of well-being, typically any with a high sugar or other carbohydrate content and associated with childhood or home cooking ”

Think breaking up with your boyfriend and burning 1000 calories from all of your aggressive crying. (Don't worry, it happens to the best of us). Naturally you are hungry now, and a big bowl of mac n cheese could do the trick. It brings you back to the days of mom cooking you lunch in your hometown kitchen, a feeling of warmth, a feeling of relief

Comforting, isn't it?

Here we have compiled a series of recipes and suggestions of local restaurants that will bring a sense of comfort, whether that be needed due to rocking a major heartbreak or a case of homesickness.

Thank you for joining me in my first season of the Dish!

Hope you enjoy, Charlie

Fink

A Cure to your Cold

Battle of the Breakfast Burritos

Comfort Food Guide to Madison Diners

The Comfort of Cheese Curds

Have your Cake and Eat it too

Wonderstruck

By: Bella Flaum

I come from a family of coffee lovers. Weekend trips to coffee shops were frequent and ritualistic during my childhood, and as soon as caffeine was no longer a threat to my physiological growth, I began appreciating the perfection of nitro cold brews and the joys of a matcha latte. The feeling of walking into a warm and cozy coffee shop after being on the windy streets of a major city is truly a feeling that can not be beat. For me, this feeling started when I was younger walking up and down the streets of New York City always hoping to come across an inviting bakery or coffee shop. And after a while, I found that one shop that just spoke to me. Blue Bottle Coffee, a chain located all over the world, was a coffee shop that gave me this feeling.

But shortly after this discovery, I was admitted into the University of Wisconsin-Madison and was in need of finding the same comfort that Blue Bottle gave me back at home. The magic of Blue Bottle Coffee was not only the taste or presentation of the coffee, but the message of the brand, and what made Blue Bottle Coffee so well known: the beauty. After much research, the perfect coffee shop was found even after I almost gave up searching. A place right in front of my face, just a small walk down State Street, and right next to the capital. It was perfect Wonderstate Coffee

After learning that Wonderstate was one of the first 100% solar powered coffee shops in the world, I knew this place was going to be the place I felt at home. The first time I sat in Wonderstate, I was certain it would become my place of comfort, study, and eating The croissants are melt-inyour-mouth delicious. The coffee is modern, yet classic at the same time. There is nothing missing at this place, except for the unfortunate fact that many people have not been there yet

#1 #1 ComfortFood ComfortFood = = Mac Mac & & Cheese Cheese

By: Allie Bell

Comfort food provides people worldwide with a feeling of well-being and consolation It can be a reminder of your childhood, a nostalgic smell or a taste that just makes you happy.

Macaroni and cheese is the food that gives me that sense of comfort and boost of serotonin. For years, I have longed to create my own baked mac and cheese recipe. My goal was always to find a recipe just as good as the one my mom used to make. Now, being in Wisconsin, and having access to the best cheese in the country, I feel like I have a leg up on her, and have finally found what I deem to be the best mac and cheese recipe.

The key to making the best mac and cheese is roux. A roux is a mixture of equal parts flour and fat (in this case, butter and milk) to create a base for the cheese sauce before you add in the different cheeses. The roux acts as a thickener for the mac and cheese and makes it extra creamy. This baked mac and cheese recipe is topped with panko crumbs and put in the oven until golden brown and crispy To me, there’s nothing better than a crispy bread crumb topping on homemade mac and cheese This year, make sure to impress your family with this rich, 12-serving dish that will be the hit of your Thanksgiving feast

INGREDIENTS

16 oz cooked macaroni (can use elbows, or any other tubular pasta)

1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

6 tbsp unsalted butter

1/3 cup all-purpose flour

3 cups whole milk

1 cup heavy cream

4 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded

2 cups gruyere cheese shredded salt and pepper to taste

1 1/2 cups panko crumbs

4 tbsp butter melted

1/2 cup parmesan cheese shredded

1/4 tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika)

NUTRITION

Calories: 642kcal |

Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 26g |

Fat: 41g | Saturated Fat: 24g | Cholesterol: 125mg |

Sodium: 550mg | Potassium: 256mg | Fiber: 1g |

Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 1325IU | Vitamin C: 0 1mg |

Calcium: 650mg | Iron: 1 4mg

INSTRUCTIONS

Preheatovento350F Lightlygreasealarge3qtor4qt bakingdishandsetaside.

Combineshreddedcheesesinalargebowlandsetaside Cookthepastaoneminuteshyofaldenteaccordingtothe packageinstructions Removefromheat,drain,andplacein alargebowl

Drizzlepastawitholiveoilandstirtocoatpasta Setaside tocoolwhilepreparingcheesesauce

Meltbutterinadeepsaucepanordutchoven Whiskinflourovermediumheatandcontinuewhiskingfor about1minuteuntilbubblyandgolden

Graduallywhiskinthemilkandheavycreamuntilniceand smooth Continuewhiskinguntilyouseebubblesonthe surfaceandthencontinuecookingandwhiskingforanother 2minutes Whiskinsaltandpepper

Addtwocupsofshreddedcheeseandwhiskuntilsmooth Addanothertwocupsofshreddedcheeseandcontinue whiskinguntilcreamyandsmooth Sauceshouldbenice andthick

Stirinthecooledpastauntilcombinedandpastaisfully coatedwiththecheesesauce.

Pourhalfofthemacandcheeseintothepreparedbaking dish.Topwithremaining2cupsofshreddedcheeseand thentheremainingmacandcheese

Inasmallbowl,combinepankocrumbs,Parmesancheese, meltedbutterandpaprika Sprinkleoverthetopandbake untilbubblyandgoldenbrown,about30minutes.Serve immediately

Pasta Trifecta

By: Charlotte Khuzami

There are few things that embody comfort more than a warm, decadent bowl of fresh pasta. Whether I’m in need of a taste of home or a satisfying dinner to forget the days stressors, pasta is my go-to meal. The al-dente noodles combined with a flavorful sauce and rich toppings satisfy hunger unlike anything else. In my past year living in Madison, I have explored the city through its many pasta dishes. Here are three of the most flavorful, pleasing pasta dishes in the area.

Bar Corralini: $$$

Comfort and all its manifestations can look different to everyone. Inclusivity is the basis for not only supporting but creating comfort. As someone with dietary restrictions myself, I know how uncomfortable it is when dreams about an upcoming meal are crushed by the threat of sickness No vegan or gluten-free

menu compares to Madison’s Bar Corallini, o fifteen minutes away from campus. The menu has si appetizers, three pizzas, a four kinds of pasta: completely vegan and gluten-free upon request The star of the menu, the $20 vegan Cacio E Pepe, might be better than the original. The king trumpet mushrooms and the crac

beautifully merge the pasta and the house-made vegan ricotta. The pasta shape provides the perfect mechanism to absorb the sauce, all of the nooks and crannies covered in vegan deliciousness.

Fresh Market: $

Sometimes the most critical aspect of deciding where to eat is accessibility: where can I acquire the best food in a timely manner to satisfy my hunger? As soon as I crave pasta, I look no further than Fresh Market’s Cold Noodles for $16.99/lb.

At a great price point, these asianstyle noodles have the perfect portion size for a quick lunch. The long noodles are the flawless medium for pungent flavors from the garlic and red pepper, rounded out with fresh herbs. When I have time, putting the noodles in the microwave for 45 seconds, stirring occasionally, creates a whole new flavor level and depth. Pro Tip: adding some soy sauce or rice vinegar for extra umami flavor is the cherry on top of this quick, affordable pasta dish

the first bite, I was teleported back to my first memories of eating shrimp scampi with my family. D’Vino’s shrimp scampi is flavorful, dimensional, and delicious. For $21.95, this family-sized dish is the greatest value in Madison. The shrimp are perfectly portioned for every bite of pasta, and its seafood essence infuses the rest of the dish effortlessly. This pasta dish reminds me of the pinnacle of comfort, bringing back memories of trying this Italian delight for the first time, and definitely not the last

D’Vino: $$

The first time I tried shrimp scampi was on a family ski trip when I was eight years old. It was love at first bite; once my taste buds tasted the velvety pasta complimented by the acidic garlicky-wine flavor rounded with sauteed shrimp, I was obsessed and it became my go-to. During my first week at UW Madison, we went to D’Vino, an Italian restaurant known for its family-style dining experience. Thankfully, my friends re also fans of shrimp scampi, so we confidently ordered a plate. Within

No matter the time or place, pasta is one of the most comforting meals of all time Pasta is the perfect medium for all cuisines and flavor palates, and I can always count on pasta to brighten my mood and turn my day around.

My Favorite Fueling Breakfast

Jordyn Paszamont

an article by Chef Jonathan Patterson

Waking up in the morning can be a very difficult task, especially after a long night out However, one thing that can help to make your morning more bearable is a nutritious breakfast.

In order to give your body the perfect amount of energy to conquer the day, it is important to incorporate protein into your yummy breakfast. Moreover, a side of fruit, such as berries for fiber, and a whole grain carb, will give you the energy needed to stay satiated, while also having a delicious meal Therefore, I am going to enlighten you all on two perfect breakfasts that are easy to make in a pinch, while also being nutritious and filling

The first breakfast is a simple traditional breakfast. For starters, you are going to cook up some eggs in whichever manner you like, scrambled, sunny side up, poached, you name it! If you are doing egg whites make sure to use at least 4 or ½ a cup, and if you are using whole eggs use about 2-3. Then, on the side, you are going to put your favorite berries in a cup to add some healthy sweetness to your

plate. Lastly, get a good whole-grain bread, such as Dave’s Killer Bread, and give it a smear of your favorite nut butter. If you think your toast is a little dry, add a drizzle of honey and you will be drooling about this breakfast

Next, we are going to chop up some onions, peppers, mushrooms, and whatever other veggies suit your taste buds. While your veggies are being sautéed, you are going to get a wholegrain tortilla and put it in the bottom of a bowl Then you are going to add your eggs and veggies to the bowl Lastly, to top it all off, you are going to add the best parts, the toppings. Add your favorite cheese, sauce, salsa, guac, you name it! Finish the bowl off with some salt and pepper, and you are good to go Delicious burrito bowl in seconds While this second breakfast may seem time-consuming, if you chop up your veggies at the beginning of the week, then it will be very simple to put them in the pan and cook them up Hopefully, these breakfast ideas will help make your mornings a little more bearable, and at the least more yummy.

Comfort foods can be many things, from french fries and ice cream to your grandmother’s chicken noodle soup or the burger at your hometown diner For me, bagels are comfort food As a born and bred (no pun intended) New Yorker, I was practically raised on bagels In New York, bagels are much more than just a type of bread rolled into a distinct ring shape, bagels are like religion. There's constant debate over where to get the best bagel in NYC; Ess-a-bagel, Tal’s, Brooklyn Bagel, and Black Seed are all NYC household names, but which one is truly the best is a dispute I don’t think will ever be settled.

For me, bagels are a food I enjoy not only because of how undeniably delicious New York bagels are, but because they’re associated with so many happy memories throughout my life Almost every Sunday afternoon growing up my mom would set out a massive spread complete with dozens of fresh, hot bagels from our favorite local bagel shop, along with cream cheese, lox, tomato, onions, and more for my family to enjoy together

Coming to school in Madison, I knew bagels would be an issue I’ve had bagels in other states before, and not one has ever even come close to rivaling a New York bagel I did some digging and discovered that I would not be bagel-less going to school here. Luckily, Gotham Bagels and Bagels Forever seemed like two spots where I could find a taste of New York in Wisconsin.

Gotham Bagels was started by Joey Bagels, a New York native who made it his mission to bring real, authentic New York bagels to Madison, and Bagels Forever had been around since 1973 making NewYork style bagels I have to say, Gotham’s menu knocked it out of the park for me They have a whole list of bagel sandwiches named after parts of New York: the Long Island, the Port Washington, the Amagansett, the Bronx Bomber, the Brighton Beachthe list goes on. While these crazy bagel combinations definitely sounded delicious, I like to keep it pretty simple. I stuck with my go-to: an everything bagel with lox, tomato, and cream cheese. I went in with low expectations and was honestly blown away by how delicious the bagel was. Like a good New York bagel, the outside was crunchy and the inside fluffy, and the cream cheese was smeared in perfect proportion to the thinly sliced tomato and lox

At Bagels Forever I decided to mix things up and go with a Bacon Egg and Cheese, pronounced as one word where I’m from, on a plain bagel Again, I was shocked at how good my bagel was Though slightly less fluffy than my Gotham bagel, the bagel had a great crunch on the outside and was super soft on the inside The bacon was crisp, the eggs fluffy and the cheese melted flawlessly

Despite my initial doubts, I discovered that I was able to find a piece of New York here in Madison. Overall, both Gotham Bagels and Bagels Forever are two Madison bagel spots I can rely on for a New York bagel to comfort me whenever I’m missing home.

By:SarahFieldman

A Cure to Your Cold

ByAbbyAltman

It is no secret that weekends of partying coupled with high-stress classes push college students toward their breaking points Whether that means the frat flu or crippling phenomena, for students, being sick in college has become routine

For many students, waking up with a sore throat can lead to days of unbearable symptoms and an infinite number of mid-day naps When feeling under the weather, what is better than some comfort food? For UW-Madison students, there are a variety of remedies to cure the common cold

Adamah

Located at the UW Hillel, Adamah neighborhood table is home to some of the best matzo ball soup in Madison The quick delivery times and impeccable flavor make this one of my go-to spots when I'm under the weather They also offer a wide variety of sandwiches, baked goods, and smoothies Not to forget, the toasted challah is the best thing on the menu

Flaming Wok

Sometimes being sick calls for some salty comfort food, and Flaming Wok has got you covered With various quality soups, this is a staple to cure congestion or a sore throat Their wonton and chicken noodle soups are fan favorites, coming with a side of fried noodles to top off their ideal combination of salty with a perfect crunch

Panera

While Panera is not solely a Madison local, you really can’t go wrong here when it comes to comfort food While they have quality soup, the focus is on their bread; carbs cure any cold Panera Bread is the way to the heart, whether it is the side baguette, cinnamon crunch bagels, or buttery chocolate chip cookies

Yume

While Yume is known for its sushi and hibachi offerings, I have recently been exposed to its hidden gem: the clear hibachi soup. The simplicity of the clear broth is the perfect remedy, especially when nausea comes into the equation. Pairing the clear broth with white rice is ideal for any nauseous afternoon.

Monty’s Blue Plate Diner

Nothing says comfort food more than Monty’s. Monty's is the place to go for those who don’t like soup or are looking to indulge in some food for the soul. Whether it is the buttermilk pancakes, mac and cheese, or delicious donuts, nothing says comfort like Monty’s.

Noodles and Co

When children come down with a cold and a fever, most parents run to give them their perfect remedy: chicken noodle soup Noodles and Co on state street is the closest thing to home for many students Their hot and hearty chicken noodle is the perfect formula; salty broth, a great serving of chicken and noodles, filling, warm, what is not to love?

When you feel the next itch in your throat or throb in your head, you know where to go; these remedies can get you through any illness Despite the circumstances that may bring you to these Madison favorites, you now know how to cure a common cold

Battle of the Breakfast Burritos

By: Kate Rautbort

Whether you are just a little too hungover from the night before or you are up, out and need a meal to fuel you before spending your entire Sunday at the library, here are three burritos in Downtown Madison that just might give you the right amount of serotonin to get you through the day!

COLECTIVO

583 State St, Madison, WI 53703

Potato Bacon Burrito: Classic. Simple. Ooey gooey. As long as it does not sell out before noon, this is my personal go-to burrito, whether it be placing an online order and quickly picking it up on my way to class or in recovery from the night before. When you unwrap the Colectivo paper and cut into the burrito, you are prompted with a magnificently toasty tortilla and a golden gooey center Cage-free scrambled eggs, chopped thick-cut bacon, roasted potatoes, Wisconsin cheddar (in Sconnie fashion), and the most delicious sweet homemade salsa with a kick creates the perfect burrito that satiates, while maintaining a balanced taste and not too heavy.

Overall rating: 4 5/5

Summarized review: A lighter burrito option with classic and fresh breakfast staple ingredients, always hits the spot and a great morning eat but could be slightly larger in size.

BASSET STREET BRUNCH CLUB

444 W Johnson St, Madison, WI 53716

Hot to Tot Burrito: Filled with scrambled eggs, bacon, tater tots, cheddar cheese, avocado, green onions, sour cream, and tomatillo salsa, this burrito is a great option if you have a strong stomach when it comes to heavier foods. Tater tots add a nice crunch while the cheddar cheese and avocado provide a nice creaminess to the burrito. The ratio of textural crunch to smoothness is always great, but sometimes the eggs are not seasoned enough, so you really have to rely on the tomatillo salsa to keep the burrito from tasting too bland The Hot to Tot can sometimes be on the greasier side, so it is definitely a little less friendly to folks with a more sensitive stomach.

Overall rating: 3.5/5

Summarized review: Hot to Tot has a great contrast of texture and pairs well with the tomatillo salsa, sometimes the eggs can be under seasoned making the burrito a little bland (depends on the day), and would be a lot better if they were more consistent making this burrito.

Comfort Food Guide to Madison Diners

By Ila Schrecker

I’ve always found comfort in diners. Growing up, my mom used to take me and my sister to a 24-hour diner in our neighborhood that we coined, “The Donut Shop.” When we were little, our meals would start with cups of hot cocoa and scrambled eggs, and end with one of their signature donuts; a sweet treat for the walk home. There’s comfort in the predictability of diners: eggs, toast, and stale, diner coffee taste pretty much the same wherever you go. They can almost seem stuck in time, a type of restaurant that has always stayed consistent in its simplicity Diners remain familiar and simple, and seemingly never changing.

When I go out to eat, I usually try to get something that I couldn’t make myself at home. Diners, though, are different. In general, nearly everything on a diner menu is something I could cook at home, and yet, that’s the very reason I love going to them: they feel like a “home away from home ” Since moving to Madison, I’ve tried to find the best diner Here are my suggestions:

Monty’s Blue Plate Diner:

Perhaps one of the most well-known diners in the Madison area; and for good reason. Show up at Monty’s around brunch time on Saturday or Sunday mornings, and you ’ re sure to see booths and bar seats full, people chatting over steaming cups of coffee, eggs, and milkshakes. My go-to is always the Monty’s breakfast sandwich: complete with sourdough bread, eggs, bacon, and herbed goat cheese, it’s a must-try. If you ’ re in the mood for something more adventurous, check out the “Monty’s Cristo,” or the biscuits & gravy

Mickies dairy bar:

Micky’s Dairy Bar: Located on Monroe St. Micky’s is the most accessible diner to get to from campus. There’s always a line outside the door, with customers waiting for their scramblers and milkshakes, two things that Micky’s is known for. While you can get milkshakes at nearly any diner, Scramblers are Mickey’s specialty: a huge plate with potatoes, eggs, sausage, and cheddar cheese, it’s not for the faint of heart. You can even buy a shirt that says, “(Scrambler) finisher.” If you haven’t tried it before, Mickey’s is a Madtown necessity.

Willaby's Cafe:

Willaby’s is a classic diner, located on Willy st. With traditional offerings like omelets, pancakes, and waffles, Willaby’s offers a straightforward, no-frills approach to diners Make sure to check out the Belgian waffles and the “Willaby’s omelet.” With its intimate and cozy atmosphere – there are few tables, and just a small bar –it’s a perfect Saturday morning brunch spot.

East Johnson Family Restaurant:

East Johnson Family Restaurant (EJFR) takes the traditional diner model, and puts its own spin on it. With traditional booths and barstools, EJFR has a traditional diner atmosphere; but there’s something almost modern and “hip” about it With unique offerings like a “ spam & egg ” breakfast sandwich to classics like waffles and burgers, EJFR is a must-try Located near James Madison Park, EJFR is a bit further to get to than other diners: but definitely worth the trip.

THE COMFORT

of Cheese curds of Cheese curds of Cheese curds

Sharing small plates of food is an activity that allows us all to come together and facilitate a bond over our common likes and interests. It’s no secret that the most common sharing plate in Wisconsin is the traditional cheese curd. Small, succulent bites of fried comforting cheesy goodness, a staple for any Wisconsinite.

Growing up in Madison, cheese curds have always been a comfort food of mine that I would frequently share with my loved ones. This Wisconsin custom is something that has brought family and friends together for years. Over the years, one of the biggest challenges has been finding the best ones within the city. To help you narrow down your decisions, here’s a list of five favorites around the capitol square, in no particular order, that are sure to please any cheese curd lover's cravings So if you’re a Sconnie or someone who just loves this comforting Wisconsin tradition, this one’s for you.

Merchant Merchant Merchant

A cozy gastropub with a chic and inviting bar, this place will certainly cure your comfort with its soothing ambience and buttermilk fried cheese curds. Merchant’s cheese curds are the perfect combination of light and delicious Served with honey, buffalo and ranch, they can be paired with a multitude of flavors - whatever you’re feeling!

The Curd Girl The Curd Girl The Curd Girl

If you ever find yourself walking the square during Saturday mornings for the annual Farmers Market or attending the Taste of Madison, make sure to stop at The Curd Girl for a salty, comforting treat The Curd Girl is a food truck in Madison that offers nothing but fried cheese curds Since this is the only item on their menu, it is definitely a rare and noble speciality.

DLUX DLUX DLUX

A modern, upscale burger bar that provides guests with a plethora of warm comfort foods. The best thing about DLUX and their curds is that they use a notable amount of chewy, thick cheddar cheese that is then wrapped up into an indulgent and rich piece of fried deliciousness. Who doesn’t love a place where you can get an outstanding starter of cheese curds to be followed by some of Madison’s best cheeseburgers?

The Old Fashioned The Old Fashioned The Old Fashioned

You can’t talk about the city of Madison without mentioning The Old Fashioned. A Madison classic, this American style restaurant offers all things greasy, cheezy, and tasty. The most notable item on the menu is their cheese curds. What makes theirs so great is their secret house-made beer batter and grand selection of dipping sauces to choose from Whether you’re feeling smoked paprika, roasted garlic, or buttermilk ranch, The Old Fashioned will heal

Coopers Tavern Coopers Tavern Coopers Tavern

A contemporary Irish Tavern located within view of the state capitol, their white cheddar cheese curds most definitely complement the rest of the restaurant's English inspired dishes. Stretchy, gooey, and lightly battered, the Coopers Tavern curds are sure to provide a comforting experience for anybody

You can’t go wrong with any of these cheese curds. Grab a few friends and make sure to check out these five places around the capitol square to share a comforting small plate, delicious experience.

HAVE YOUR CAKE & EAT IT TOO

MADISONS MOST INVENTIVE DESSERTS

by miranda poradeck

For those looking to round off their meal with a sweet treat, Madison is the place to be. From reimagined classics to bold new creations, Madison is home to several dessert spots that you won’t want to miss. Here are our top picks for the most inventive desserts in Madison:

Bloom Bakeshop

Each morning, loyal customers flock to Bloom Bakeshop’s distinct mint awning on Monroe Street to enjoy their small-batch pastries

Although the bakery offers staples such as sourdough bread and croissants, some of its more unique offerings have developed their own cult following. One guest favorite is the sweet potato donut– a soft, perfectlyspiced, cake donut that is bound to leave even the biggest donut-skeptics asking for seconds. As Bloom puts it themselves, “You must try it to understand!”

Guests should also keep an eye out for “the cruffin”: a glorious, sugar-coated, croissant muffin stuffed to the brim with pastry cream and adorned with color sprinkles. Although the dessert resembles something out of a children’s picture book, it is sure to be enjoyed by taste buds of all ages

As of this month, Bloom is now officially open for business at 577 North Street, a collaborative space with Cafe Domestique and Youngblood Brewing. With this exciting development, customers all over Madison can treat themselves to Bloom’s unique goodies.

Ice Cream Social

Katrina Ervin, founder of “Ice Cream Social,” is a testament to the fact that adversity often gives way to unexpected sweetness. After losing her job during the COVID-19 pandemic, Ervin decided to dedicate more time to one of her favorite hobbies: making ice cream. However, Ervin’s true

call to action wasn’t until the protests that followed the murders of Breonna Taylor and George Floyd.

In June of 2020, Ervin virtually debuted “Ice Cream Social” with the goal of selling ice cream to raise money for local racial justice organizations Ice Cream Social recently opened its brick and mortar location in March of 2022 and remains dedicated to donating a portion of its proceeds to a rotating set of nonprofits.

Ice Cream Social rotates flavors on a weekly basis, giving customers a reason to always come back for more. One current flavor, “This Sh*t is Bananas,” includes “banana bread ice cream, nutella freckles, and crunchy brown sugar cinnamon streusel.” Another particularly inventive flavor, “A Song of Fire and Ice,” includes “maple and cayenne ice cream with Nutkrack’s chilispiked candied pecans.”

Guests with dietary restrictions need not worry; all flavors at Ice Cream Social (and their maple waffle cones!) are 100% gluten free. To enjoy truly adventurous ice cream flavors and support a good cause, be sure to stop by their location on University Avenue.

Miggy Bakes

Created by UW-Madison alum She Olstad, Miggy Bakes is an online-b small batch bakery that offers un varieties of cookies, brownies, ca more. The inspiration for the bus name comes from Olstad’s “two f things in life,” baking, and her do Wrigley (who is lovingly nickname Miggy)

Customers who are looking for new renditions of classic treats are bound to delight in Olstad’s “deluxe cookies,” which come in unconventional flavors like “donut stuffed sugar cookie” and “dirt cup. ” Perhaps Olstad’s most distinct specialty is her cookie cups. These sweet treats consist of a muffin-shaped cookie shell, which customers can choose to top off with a cookie dough or cheesecake filling.

Miggy Bakes conveniently offers two pickup locations at Marigold Kitchen and their Middleton address, along with a delivery option Additionally, Olstad offers a variety of virtual and in-person cake decorating classes for bakers who aspire to make their own unique creations. Regardless of the event or occasion at hand, Miggy Bakes is bound to deliver a show-stopping dessert.

Love, Allie Desserts

Hands down, one of the best desserts in Madison. Allie is a sophomore at UW-Madison who recently has started a baking business right from her apartment. She has a packed menu with easy pickups right on campus. Orders can be placed by the push of a button through her Instagram account.

"I learned to bake when I was 6, and it was the only hobby I ever stuck with and it became my passion. Since then, i’ve worked at a bakery for four years and learned how to decorate baked goods and build my own recipes. I'm motivated to bake every day when I see my friends and family’s reactions to my desserts, and one day I hope to open my own bakery where I can share my passion with more people”

Allie's menu is packed with various cookie flavors and bread loaves. She can be personally contacted for a special orders as well. One of my favorites is the “Kitchen Sink Cookie” which has chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, pretzels and potato chips. It may sound interesting but trust me nothing beats it. These dessert destinations prove that no meal is really complete without a treat. Next time you’re craving something sweet, be sure to check out our picks!