One of the best things about 608 living is the opportunity to experience a variety of cultures right here on the isthmus. Take a culinary tour of the world via some of our favorite spots serving international cuisine.
1. Ethiopian | Buraka, 1210 Williamson St. | Stop by for appetizers + specialty drinks or kick back in the garden patio for a relaxed, outdoor dinner.
Meeting a group for dinner? Try Buraka’s family platter. | Photo by Buraka
2. Russian | Paul’s Pel’meni, 414 W. Gilman St. | Paul’s keeps it simple with one thing on its menu, Pel’meni. (Think: potato-filled dumplings.)
3. Brazilian | Samba, 240 W. Gilman St. | This one is for the meat lovers. Indulge in table-side meat carving paired with salad, cheeses, and other small bites.
4. Indian | Maharani, 380 W. Washington Ave. | A must-try for traditional Indian cusinse + one of Madison’s best lunch buffets. Must-try: vegetable samosa.
5. Canadian | Cooper’s Tavern, 20 W. Mifflin St. | While Cooper’s serves more than just Canadian cuisine, it’s the 608’s go-to for poutine.
6. Cajun (Rooted in French Canadian culture) | Louisianne’s, 7464 Hubbard Ave., Middleton | Transport yourself to the French Quarter with dishes like crawfish cheesecake and pecan catfish.
7. Italian | Osteria Papavero, 128 E. Wilson St. | Don’t leave without trying the budino at this James Beard award-winning spot.
8. Laotian | Lao Laan Xang, 2098 Atwood Ave. | Madison’s first authentic Laotian restaurant has been feeding locals since the 90s.
9. Greek | Mediterranean Cafe, 625 State St. | Check the Facebook page to stay up to date on daily specials at this popular family-owned lunch spot.
10. Mexican | Taquiera Guadalajara, 1033 S. Park St. | Here, the goal is to “bring a little bit of Mexico to the isthmus.”
