I love the big, open, garage-like space at Lucky’s 1313 Brew Pub, a true homage to the former Foreign Car Specialists. However, other than grabbing a snack before or after a game at Camp Randall or the Kohl Center, there’s nothing on the menu that would bring me back otherwise.
I feel bad for saying that, since I do like Kipp Thomas, who serves as executive chef. Take for example the ultimate grilled cheese ($9.75). It’s good in concept, with buttery Texas toast, avocado and bacon, but the cheese was only partially melted, and there was so little of it that I don’t think all four slices of cheese were included.
For Friday fish fry, you may choose among cod, walleye, perch and catfish. The thin walleye ($14.50) didn’t have much meat to it, and it was dry and bland–you really need some salt and tartar sauce to get through it. I did like the accompanying creamy coleslaw, which has a slight bite from the red peppers.
Don’t get the tater tots as your side. You know how Ore-Ida tater tots taste when they have been under-baked? That’s what Lucky’s tater tots taste like, and they were served this way in two different visits.
The Dayne #33 ($11.25) is quite messy. The bountiful pulled pork–which wasn’t tender–is topped with big strips of bacon and crunchy coleslaw inside a thick pretzel bun. At least all the flavors worked well together.
Other menu items include Kaminsky’s Frank (a Chicago hot dog, $9.25), pizzas/flatbread and tropical coconut grilled chicken ($14.50).
Lucky’s also brews its own beers, including a Madtown Hops IPA and 5th Porter. I really enjoyed the Regent Street wheat. It had a good aroma, the flavor of the wheat comes through and it’s a beer that pairs well with anything.
Lucky’s 1313 Brew Pub is open every day for lunch and dinner. You can enter the parking lot from either Regent Street or Bowen Court.
Next time you’re at Woodman’s on the west side, see if you can spot 
The century eggs ($6.95) were some of the best I’ve ever had. Perfect gelatinous texture of the whites, paired with the creaminess of the yolk, mixed with the spiciness of peppers, makes for a satisfying appetizer.
Obviously many restaurants are having Valentine’s Day specials. Beyond dining, here are some V-Day-related events–running the gamut from parties to family-friendly–going on in Madison today through the 14th.
