Mariner's Inn - Madison

I can honestly say this is the best food I’ve ever tasted! From the homemade rolls and appetizers all the way to the main course, everything was outstanding. Th... read more I can honestly say this is the best food I’ve ever tasted! From the homemade rolls and appetizers all the way to the main course, everything was outstanding. The rolls are so delicious that it’s hard not to overindulge. The seafood-stuffed mushrooms are also a delight. The lobster tail is simply top-notch—you won't find better anywhere else. We decided to give this place a try on a whim tonight, and I couldn’t be happier that we did. It has quickly become our favorite restaurant. The customer service is impeccable and operates like a well-oiled machine. Our waiter was incredibly attentive and anticipated our needs before we even had to ask. This experience is definitely worth every penny!

I visited this restaurant for the first time and was blown away—it’s truly a gem in Madison! We ordered the surf and turf, clam chowder, and shared key lime pie... read more I visited this restaurant for the first time and was blown away—it’s truly a gem in Madison! We ordered the surf and turf, clam chowder, and shared key lime pie, chocolate mousse, and cheesecake. Everything we tried was absolutely fantastic. The ambiance had a supper club feel with a charming nautical theme. Our server, Jill, was exceptional and provided excellent recommendations. The drinks were also impressive; we enjoyed old fashioneds and lemon drop martinis. This place is a must-visit if you're in the Madison area!

This charming, old-school restaurant by the marina has a lovely atmosphere! The food is good, though not exceptional. My steak was slightly overcooked (I ordere... read more This charming, old-school restaurant by the marina has a lovely atmosphere! The food is good, though not exceptional. My steak was slightly overcooked (I ordered it medium rare), and it would have been easier to enjoy on a larger plate.

Mariner's is consistent. Service was decent, although our waiter was very rushed. We noted that he didn't share with us the availability of various sides when w... read more Mariner's is consistent. Service was decent, although our waiter was very rushed. We noted that he didn't share with us the availability of various sides when we heard another waiter going over them with a nearby table. It was restaurant week, so the menu was limited. Shrimp were great; lobster tail was embarrassingly small and dried out. It was redeemed by the small steak that came with the lobster tail. Salads were clearly pre-made since they seemed wilted and the included deserts were decent—-nothing special. Mariners has announced they will be closing next year. This was a “farewell” visit since we were visiting from out of town, having lived in Madison for many years.

Once we were seated at our table, we waited over 10 minutes without any service. I noticed other tables received attention right away, with their servers bringi... read more Once we were seated at our table, we waited over 10 minutes without any service. I noticed other tables received attention right away, with their servers bringing water and checking in about drinks. Our waiter seemed completely absent throughout our meal. At one point, we even had to ask a different waitress if we could get a refill on the bread basket. As for the food, the portions were generous and the flavors were good, but I ordered my steak medium rare and it came out more on the rare side. To me, if it’s purple, that’s definitely rare. A medium steak should have some cooked edges and not be red to purple throughout. At that point, I didn’t want to send it back and wait even longer. Considering the overall experience, I can't say we'll be returning anytime soon.