Going Mad(ison) For These Sushi Spots

by Allie Woldenberg

As the capital of “America’s Dairyland,” Madison’s sushi selection is constantly overshadowed by the idea of cheese, and that stops here. Don’t get me wrong, the cheese in Madison is great, but it’s Madison’s sushi time to shine. And for us sushi lovers, finding a great sushi restaurant in Madison is a piece of cake. Madison is splattered with great options to dine-in or order out any roll of your choosing. In this article I will be highlighting three of Madison top sushi choices. Let’s ROLL!

Jacknife

Derived from the Madison sushi staple RED, I introduce Jackknife.The newest addition to the sushi community, Jacknife brings a fresh look to sushi restaurants.“Jacknife takes fresh, high quality ingredients and carefully crafts them into excitingly delicious food for you to enjoy in a flash,” says Jackknife co founderJackYip.What could be better? Fast and casual food that is healthy AND tasty? With a menu filled with choices from poke bowls and fresh sushi rolls, it’s hard to choose between the great options….speaking from experience. Ordering out is made fun with their high tech to-go pick up machine, and even an option for “antisocial ordering,” allowing you order without social interaction. This spot is the perfect place for cool pictures to post, while also enjoying freshly made sushi.

Sushi Express

Looking for a quick and easy sushi experience?

Look no further than 610 University Ave: Sushi Express! Sushi Express is a college student’s fan favorite, including my own. Sushi express is just a mere 5 minute walk away from southeast dorms on campus and has been my constant go-to, the vegetable roll and shrimp tempura roll satisfying my almost weekly sushi fix. You can never go wrong with a volcano roll, spicy tuna, or california roll, and Sushi Express has executed these rolls perfectly. Ordering here won’t hurt your wallet, getting 3 rolls forunder$15.Most times thewaiting area is filled with pick up orders, all the tables full because of minimal seating. Carryout is a reliable and timely option, and I suggest ordering on eatstreet or calling to place an order. With efficient and friendly service, this spot on the UW campus is a staple in the sushi community of Madison.

Yume

Although a little hidden on the second floor of 449 State St, once you discover Yume Sushi, you will not be disappointed. This homey and family friendly environment feels comforting, as you enjoy your food with large windows providing a great view of State street. If you are looking for dinner out with a group of friends, with great people watching while you eat, I can vouch for Yume as being the best option. The ginger salad is a great way to start off while you wait,the spicy tuna roll and veggie fried rice being my favorites entree. I usually end up taking some home, and the fried rice is a great next day or late night snack.But ifyou’re wanting sushiwithout leaving your dorm, delivery options are available on door dash and eatstreet, all so quick and easy.

Fresh Market

Although these are great restaurant options that I hope you will branch out and try next time you eat out, Madison restaurants are not the only way you can enjoy sushi on campus. Next time you’re at Fresh Market; the grocery store located on 703 University Ave, I suggest you take a deeper look at the sushi section. Fresh Market constantly has a variety of options to grab on the go, ranging from nigiri, rolls and poke bowls. Fresh Market has never failed to provide me with a roll that I can take back to my dorm and stash in my fridge. Don’t sleep on these sushi options!

I hope this article has opened your eyes, and of course, stomach, to Madison’s wide assortment of sushi options. The integration of Japanese cuisine into the UW lifestyle is something so special to our campus, and hopefully it grows even more in the future.

As the state capital, Madison’s diverse and dynamic food appeals to various cultures and flavor palettes. The restaurant scene is a well-rounded mix of classic and fusion-style cuisines.When I was touring schools during my senior year of high school, I remember feeling captivated by Madison’s lively State street and popular restaurant scene. Its diverse cuisine allows students from across the world to experience a familiar feeling of home while expanding appreciation for different cultures through their taste buds. I plan to open a restaurant later in life, and to get to share meals with my close friends at school solidifies my love for food and business. While loving many kinds of food, eating three meals from all different origins inspires me to appreciate the beauty in our differences and celebrate moments big and small.

Whenever a visitor comes to Madison, my go-to breakfast place is Marigold’s Kitchen. Located off the capital, Marigolds describes itself as an “Upbeat downtown Madison, WI brunch & lunch cafe beaming w/ bright smiles & coastal vibes.” I took my family here the first time they visited me my freshman year, and we always go back for the bright and warm dining room and even better service. The dining room feels like an oasis in Malibu, with graband-go options and a full-service restaurant. The staff is friendly, helpful, and familiar with proper dietary restriction protocol. As someone with food allergies, it’s always relieving to notice the extra attention staff members take as precautions. The menu’s daily specials reflect seasonal produce with a modern, refreshing twist. This menu also features extensive gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan options for all dietary needs. In addition, Marigold’s Kitchen features goods from Miggy’s local bakery; the cinnamon donut muffins are a must. My roommate’s mom is the best for always leaving us with a box of them as a departure gift. My favorites include the Chillaquiles, the Pumpkin Buckwheat Cinnamon Roll Pancakes and the Lemon Dill Chicken Salad. The full coffee and cocktail bar makes Marigold’s Kitchen the perfect brunch date. Whether savory or sweet, Marigold’s Kitchen brings a part of the California coast to Madison for everyone to love and enjoy.

Located at the heart of State street, the Mediterranean Cafe is known for its casual lunch combos, intimate atmosphere and even bewtter service. Mediterranean Cafe’s daily combos and deals beat any other in the state. No matter if you are in the mood for a light greek salad or a divine chicken shawarma plate, the extensive menu options have something for all. While moving out for the summer last year, my friend and I were starving after carrying our boxes from our dorm. Mediterranean Cafe revived and refreshed us; we were ready to go back to ship more boxes. It’s always just what I need,whether running to class, having a fun dinner with friends or a pick-me-up. Takeout is quick and convenient, but when dining in, the experience provides a sense of community and escape from the arctic tundra. The menu includes Mediterranean staples like Hummus & Pita, Falafel, Roti Chicken, and a delectable Baklava assortment. The service staff is always helpful while answering all my questions, including recommend-

Madison Goes Global: Three Meals, Three Three Three Different Cuisines Cuisines

by Charlotte Khuzami

ing some of their favorites. The Mediterranean Cafe is a staple in Madison, WI, and an established home to all.

My favorite dinner is Sushi, and it’s hard to talk about Madison’s sushi restaurants without mentioning Red. Red Sushi is a Japanese restaurant located in downtown Madison, WI. It serves a variety of Sushi, sashimi and other Japanese dishes. My dad and I always eat Sushi together because the rest of our family isn’t big fans of raw fish. It’s always a ritual when I visit home, and I have amazing memories with him while tasting incredible Japanese cuisine. Their sushi options include classic rolls like California Roll, Spicy Tuna Roll and Rainbow Roll, as well as specialty rolls like the Crazy Monkey Roll, which contains spicy crab, shrimp tempura, avocado, and cucumber, topped with banana and strawberry sauce. They also have vegetarian rolls, like Avocado and Vegetable Rolls. In addition to Sushi, Red Sushi serves other Japanese dishes like udon noodles, donburi rice bowls, and teriyaki entrees with chicken, beef, or salmon. They also have a selection of appetiz- ers, including gyoza (pan-fried dumplings), edamame, and miso soup. Red Sushi combines classic dishes with modern, festive twists. The intimate atmosphere makes Red Sushi a perfect date spot, and the food proves it’s an even better second date spot. Not only is it within walking distance from campus, it always brings a smile as I gaze upon the capital in all its glory. I cannot wait to introduce my dad to Red when he visits later this semester.

Madison’s globalized population manifests throughout its culinary outlets. However, one of the best things about Madison is its diverse range of cultures manifested in its restaurant scene. There’s always something new to try as our community grows. As residents, it is our job to enjoy the diverse cuisines and to appreciate the different cultures that compose our midwest home.