I’ve heard Madison Cuisine, located in the Lucky building, described as a food court, but it’s actually more of a cafeteria. You grab a tray when you walk in, and then you are met with a sushi bar, Chinese dishes and American dishes (including breakfast).
So, if you’re looking to eat pancakes, General Tso’s chicken and pepperoni pizza in one meal, this is your place.
Note, the layout is weird. For example, the cups and the soda fountain are not located near each other (the former is located by the Chinese food). Meanwhile, you need to flag down a cook to take your order at the American station.
The sushi is made fresh, on the spot, and then put in those to-go containers you see at grocery stores. My Ocean Sampler ($9.99) had two pieces each of salmon, tuna, eel and shrimp. They were super heavy on the rice, and I wish the wasabi was stronger.
The noodle bowls ($8.95) aren’t on the printed menu. You can choose noodles such as rice, thick or ramen, and then top it with meat such as beef or duck. Don’t mistake the broth for pho; this version is basically tasteless, making the noodles bland as well. At least you get a lot of meat, which in my case was tasty pieces of Peking duck.
I fell for the Best Philly Cheesesteak in Madison ($8.95). It’s got some merits–the sandwich is cooked right on the spot, comes with a generous helping of toppings and includes lightly grilled bread. However, the two slices of cheese were inadequate for the size of the sandwich, and the green peppers and onions needed to be sauteed longer.
As I eluded, the rest of the varied menu includes items like burgers, omelettes, French toast, chicken wings and Teriyaki shrimp.
Madison Cuisine is open every day for breakfast, lunch, dinner and carryout. Park in the ramp underneath (enter from Lake Street).
