Country Inn & Suites By Carlson, Madison, WI

DOWNTOWN. Teutonic spirit runs deep and proud at this local institution, which caters to folks of German heritage and...

DOWNTOWN. Teutonic spirit runs deep and proud at this local institution, which caters to folks of German heritage and aficionados of the culture. The staff wear authentic costumes, and oompah music rings out as eager patrons tuck into wienerschnitzel, sauerbraten, and a variety of wursts. Beer-lovers can choose from 16 German varieties on tap or more than 200 international brands. A convivial ambience and instant camaraderie provide additional reasons to polka over and spend the evening.

Hours: Tue-Thu 3pm-2am; Fri-Sat 3pm-2:30am; Sun 3pm-10pm

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Diner's Club

DOWNTOWN. When you feel the need to trade in typical, rowdy clubs for a more subdued experience, Opus stands out as an...

DOWNTOWN. When you feel the need to trade in typical, rowdy clubs for a more subdued experience, Opus stands out as an ideal oasis of urbanity. Dimly lit and romantic, the establishment provides an optimal environment wherein patrons can enjoy international wines, sip well-mixed cocktails, or munch globally-inspired appetizers, including sushi and tapas options. Prices run a bit towards the high side, but for ambience and style, it's hard to find a place of Opus' caliber in the vicinity.

Hours: Mon-Thu 4:30pm-2am; Fri-Sat 4:30pm-2:30am; Sun 7pm-2am

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , American Express , Diner's Club

DOWNTOWN. Upscale and deliciously mellow, this establishment caters to folks who appreciate fine cigars and cocktails....

DOWNTOWN. Upscale and deliciously mellow, this establishment caters to folks who appreciate fine cigars and cocktails. As a result, you'll often find groups of business people scattered around, lounging on comfy sofas, taking in strains of jazz, and indulging in stogies from Honduras or the Dominican Republic. Maduro's poisons include premium scotch, tequila, bourbon, brandy, and all sorts of martinis, cordials, wines, and beers. Come Saturday, DJs spin house music and other intriguing mixes ­ a perfect cap to the weekend.

Hours: Mon-Thu 4pm-2am; Fri 4pm-2:30am; Sat 6pm-2:30am; Sun 8pm-2am

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , American Express , Diner's Club

DOWNTOWN. Business folks head to this hotel bar when the work day's over, looking to decompress after a day of...

DOWNTOWN. Business folks head to this hotel bar when the work day's over, looking to decompress after a day of appointments and obligations. The upscale environment welcomes them to ease back, chat with friends, and indulge in a good drink. While heavyweights take advantage of small-batch bourbons and single-malt scotches, other patrons favor a simple glass of wine or a microbrew. On Friday and Saturday, jazz musicians play to substantial crowds. Appetizers and pub fare available.

Hours: Mon-Fri 2pm-1am; Sat 11:30am-1am; Sun 11:30am-Midnight

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Discover , American Express , Diner's Club

DOWNTOWN. Retro styling and a young, upscale crowd impart a certain sophistication to this bar, whose dark, streamlined...

DOWNTOWN. Retro styling and a young, upscale crowd impart a certain sophistication to this bar, whose dark, streamlined interior glows with blue neon accents. Apropos to the decor, a martini menu offers up tasty potions and contributes a dose of mid-century chic. Try a fresh kiwi martini, or perhaps the Cajun with jalapeno-infused vodka. Beer, wine, and champagne cocktails are also available, along with frozen and ice-cream drinks. If food's in order, a selection of appetizers can help ward off the munchies.

Hours: Sun-Wed 8pm-2am; Thu-Sat 5pm-2am

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Diner's Club

DOWNTOWN. This kitschy downtowner is hard to miss, with its telltale purple facade and Art Deco design. Inside, you'll...

DOWNTOWN. This kitschy downtowner is hard to miss, with its telltale purple facade and Art Deco design. Inside, you'll find a laid-back atmosphere that encourages folks to kick back and hang out. Draft beer flows freely, whether it's pints of Irish stout or something more on the regional side. How does an ice-cold PBR sound? What's more, Vintage serves some of the tastiest bar food around ­ hearty appetites will want a basket of chili cheese fries to go with their burger or sandwich. During warmer months, patio seating allows patrons to enjoy suds and grub while overseeing the bustle of University Avenue.

Hours: Mon-Fri 3pm-2am; Sat-Sun 9am-2am

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , American Express , Diner's Club

DOWNTOWN. Situated in the space beneath Porta Bella, a well-known Italian restaurant, this cozy haven is especially...

DOWNTOWN. Situated in the space beneath Porta Bella, a well-known Italian restaurant, this cozy haven is especially favored by couples and small groups. The romantic place invites intimacy with its warren of rooms, and its wine selection includes Italian, domestic, and international selections. You'll also find a choice of beers (including microbrews), and a full bar ensures that any cocktail you desire is only a bartender away. In addition, a menu of light fare satiates any hunger pangs that may develop.

Hours: Thu 6pm-10:30pm; Fri-Sat 5pm-10:30pm

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Discover , American Express , Diner's Club

WEST. Distinguished by sweeping architectural curves and a two-level interior, this comfortable neighborhood bar is a...

WEST. Distinguished by sweeping architectural curves and a two-level interior, this comfortable neighborhood bar is a great destination when you want to throw back a few and watch sports on their large satellite TVs. Pool and darts entice those with a competitive spirit, and a fantastic jukebox fills the place with classic tunes. Draft and bottled beers, along with a full bar, satisfy liquid cravings, and the menu boasts great burgers, sandwiches, appetizers, and daily specials. ATM on the premises.

Hours: Sun-Thu 11am-2am, Fri-Sat 11am-2:30am

Payment Methods: Cash Only

DOWNTOWN. The college contingent descends on this casual place throughout the year, and for good reason. SSB's recipe...

DOWNTOWN. The college contingent descends on this casual place throughout the year, and for good reason. SSB's recipe for success is based on lots of cold beer, lots of hot bratwursts, and a plethora of TVs tuned to sports events. In fact, one of the monitors is huge and surrounded by tiered seats so that everybody has a great sightline. If you don't mind not catching the game, outdoor seating is available as well. Along with microbrews and brats, you'll find burgers, sandwiches, and appetizers.

Hours: Daily 11am-2am

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Discover , American Express , Diner's Club