Rustic Tavern - Madison

Very cozy, real diving bar feeling. Beverages were made good and strong, at a fair price (but note that they only take cash). Will definitely return here read more Very cozy, real diving bar feeling. Beverages were made good and strong, at a fair price (but note that they only take cash). Will definitely return here

6 out of 5 stars So THIS is how the other half lives! This is the type of place that puts a capital F in Fancy! The lack of windows provide an exclusive feel- l... read more 6 out of 5 stars So THIS is how the other half lives! This is the type of place that puts a capital F in Fancy! The lack of windows provide an exclusive feel- like you 're in the VIP section of an old-timey cocktail lounge: the kind the spells old olde and everyone wears a monacle. The facility is state-of-the-art, equipped with every modern luxury: swivel seats, color television, and even dim-able lights! The beer selection is top-of-the-line, with imported ales from as far away as Colorado. Now, most establishments are too concerned with making a quick buck to let their beer properly age. Not here- I was able to sample a Coors Light Tall Boy from 2009, which any Coors connoisseur will tell you was a near-perfect batch. I will most certainly be back as soon as my ankle bracelet is removed. One quick note, though. The Rustic does NOT have a valet service. It turns out someone just stole my car.

Can be sketchy, but the bartenders are great about dealing with situations kicking people out if need be. Great neighborhood bar with tons of regulars who have... read more Can be sketchy, but the bartenders are great about dealing with situations kicking people out if need be. Great neighborhood bar with tons of regulars who have been patronizing the place since their parents were young and coming. Plus the hottest bartender in town on Thursday nights!

I like this place. Friendly bartender. Very relaxed. Some tip beer options. Much alcohol. Pull tabs. Touch tunes. Darts. Accompanying regulars. A cross between... read more I like this place. Friendly bartender. Very relaxed. Some tip beer options. Much alcohol. Pull tabs. Touch tunes. Darts. Accompanying regulars. A cross between a diving bar and a communal bar. Anyway, it'll be back.

I really wanted to like this place because I love a good dive, however the tile floor reminded me more of a restroom or hotel pool. There was nothing very rusti... read more I really wanted to like this place because I love a good dive, however the tile floor reminded me more of a restroom or hotel pool. There was nothing very rustic about it and it was very difficult to get the bartenders attention. He was on his phone quite a bit.