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Tavernakaya
Tavernakaya: Authentic Japanese flavors, fresh sushi, and a welcoming Madison dining vibe.
4.4
Japanese
$$
Tavernakaya: Authentic Japanese flavors, fresh sushi, and a welcoming Madison dining vibe.
Tavernakaya in Madison, WI at 27 E Main St blends Japanese cuisine with sushi, Chinese fare, and casual bar dining. The restaurant earns praise for authentic Japanese dishes, friendly service, and a clean, inviting atmosphere, with outside seating noted as appealing. Guests compliment fast service and flavorful bites—including tempura-style cheese curds—and weekday lunch popularity, though a New Year’s Eve event received mixed organization.
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Enjoy a menu blending traditional Japanese dishes like sushi with creative twists, such as tempura-style cheese curds and fried chicken buns.
Visit during happy hour for discounted drinks and appetizers, perfect for socializing before events like Concerts on the Square.
Savor fresh, handcrafted sushi rolls and nigiri, with options for both classic and veggie varieties.
Sip on cocktails, beer, and wine in a lively bar setting, with skilled bartenders ensuring quick service even during busy times.
Book sections for special occasions like New Year's Eve, offering group dining and entertainment in a vibrant atmosphere.
Relax in the inviting outdoor area, ideal for enjoying meals and drinks in pleasant weather.
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Overall rating
Victoria Rose
Mid. Bought a section for New Year’s Eve. They played lofi beats until 11:34 when they played I gotta feeling by the black eyed pees. Severely disappointed that I purchased early tickets and sections tickets for this mediocre night. Check in with as confusing as heck. Bouncer told us to talk to the guy in suspensers and still took 15+ minutes to get us seated. I carried out complementary drink from the bar to our table. Seemed like no one knew what the standard of procedure was. Extremely disappointed in the general organization and the DJ wasn’t event good even though I asked him multiple times to play afrobeats & white girl beats. Waited at the ‘VIP’ section ordering station and still was ignored for 10+ minutes during a mediocre rush at 11:25pm. Could have gone anywhere else for FREE and had a better New Year’s Eve.
Jerry Murphy
After trying their food at Taste of Madison, we had to go. Got lucky going early on a Saturday night when they weren't too busy. Food and service was fantastic. Be sure to try their take on cheese curds, done tempura-style on a stick.
Hao Yuan
Came here during happy hour a few weeks ago when Concerts on the Square was happening and had a great time. While it wasn’t very busy when I first arrived, it quickly became packed. Despite how slammed they got, it was clear there was a good system in place as all of the appetizers and drinks that I ordered came out quickly. Everything tasted fresh, and there’s a variety of options to choose from. Special shout out to Tandra who was apparently the only bartender working at the time. I’ve never seen someone manage the blistering pace of drink orders coming in from both the main dining room and the full bar as efficiently as her. My experience that day made me want to come here more often.
Corina Mayo
If you're looking for authentic Japanese food, dine here. The service was impeccable! Our server was friendly and helpful in choosing our meal. The food temperature was perfect, and the taste, even better. Atmosphere decor was pleasant to the eye. The outside seating area looked inviting. Highly recommend this restaurant when you're in the area.
Sara O
We tried some sushi, fried chicken bun and the cheese curds. All were yummy. The veggie sushi was a little bland but to be expected based on the ingredients. The service was fast and very polite. Such a nice atmosphere. Clean and quiet for the amount of people in there. A little pricy but to be expected based on the location. Went for weekday lunch and it seemed well liked without being over crowded. Would recommend!
