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Cold treats for a hot day in Madison, WI

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Have you seen the goodness at Ice Cream Social? An absolute IG moment. | Photo by 608today team

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Grab your sunscreen + throw on those shades, a heatwave is rolling into the 608 with temperatures in the 90s expected all week long.

We asked Madison for the best spots to grab a cold treat + sprinkled in a few of our personal favorites too. Here’s the scoop.

Brew-tifal ways to start the day

Fuel up for a long day in the sun.

Cafe Domestique | 1408 Williamson St.
At the intersection of bikes + espresso is this Willy St. coffee cafe. Cyclists welcome.

Leopold’s Books Bar Caffè | 1301 Regent St.
Beat the heat + grab a cold coffee or cocktail while relaxing and reading.
Pro tip: Check out Leopold’s recently launched wine of the week program.

Bandit Tacos + Coffee | 640 W Washington Ave.
Hangout in Madison’s historic train depot and grab an iced coffee, juice, or maybe even something a bit stiffer if it’s going to be that kind of day.

Beat the midday heat

For when even a warm meal is too much.

Miko Poke | 2701 Monroe St.
The neighborhood favorite known for Hawaiian-style rice + salad bowls, shaved ice, plus beer and wine.
Pro tip: Reader Sam S. says level up your meal with a Dole Whip for dessert.

Blended | 717 Hilldale Wy.
Hilldale’s smoothie and acai bowl spot with an eclectic mix of smoothies, juices, and shots.

Casetta Kitchen and Counter | 222 W Washington Ave.
A downtown eatery shop that has mastered the art of the cold sandwich.
Editor’s Pick: Ryan insists that The Paradigm might just be the best bite in the 608.

Worth desserting the rest of the evening for

Cap the day off with a sweet treat.

Ice Cream Social | 2421 University Ave.
A sweet treat shop with a mission to give back to the community + fight for equality.
Pro tip: Reader Courtney M. says the lavender honeycomb is a must try.

Good News Ice Cream | 117 King St.
Downtown’s one-stop-shop for ice cream, coffee + grab-and-go sandwiches.
Editors pick: Ryan tried a non-dairy scoop and won’t stop talking about it. It was that good.

La Michoacana Homemade Ice Cream | 6712 Odana Rd.
Cool off with popsicles, fruit drinks, and ice cream inspired by the state of Michoacan in Mexico.

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