Hey Madisonians, Ryan + Audrey here. Between the two of us, we get the privilege of sharing local news, events, and conversations with 57,000+ readers in Madison, daily — here, and on our socials.
After three months of bringing you 608today, we thought we should formally introduce ourselves. Consider this us going in for a fist bump, then switching to a handshake, then settling on a hug.
Meet Ryan 🤠
Q: Describe your perfect day in Madison in the length of a Tweet (240 characters)
A: Group ride with the bike team at Machinery Row Bicycles, post-ride beers at Essen Haus, a lunch feast at Banzo Mediterranean, an unnecessary trip to REI + end the day off with a sunset at Monona Terrace or James Madison Park.
Q: You can only choose one local restaurant menu to bring with you to a deserted island — which one is it + why?
A: Mint Mark — 1929 Winnebago St. I love a restaurant with a small menu that picks a few things and masters them. Mint Mark has only 12 dinner items available, not including dessert. From the cultured butter + honey biscuit to the steak frites, this Willy Street institution simply does not miss.
Q: If you could only write about one Madison-specific topic for the rest of your life, what would it be?
A: Bikes. Road bikes, mountain bikes, gravel bikes + more. If its got two wheels — and no motor — I’m interested. Madison is a haven for cyclists of all kinds. Our local bike shops and group ride atmosphere are second to none, supporting commuters and endurance athletes all the same.
Meet Audrey 🎉
Q: Describe your perfect day in Madison in the length of a Tweet (240 characters)
A: A walk to Gotham Bagels for a Brighton Beach sandwich, coffee from Wonderstate, hiking at Devil’s Lake State Park + a treat from Culver’s on the way home. Maybe catch the sunset over Lake Mendota.
Q: What secret menu item from a local restaurant are you kinda wanting to keep secret, but also kinda wanting to share with the city?
A: This might be an open secret, but Short Stack Eatery’s blind special is one of my favorites on the weekend. All you know is whether it’s sweet or savory + you take a gamble on your breakfast. Pro Tip: You can call to ask if it’s vegetarian-friendly.
Q: You’re taking someone on a date in Madison. Where are you going?
A: In the evening, the vibes at Gibs Bar on Willy St. are immaculate. I think I’d start there for drinks and work our way over to Atwood for dinner at Bar Corallini. If it’s during the day, we’re grabbing coffee from the Union and walking along the Lakeshore path.
