Usually, when we have a new, trendy place to eat and drink in Madison, the local media and food bloggers over-review it. However, that has not been the case with Amara, which is surprising given its excellent food, cocktails and vibe.
Here’s the run-down: First on my list was the porchetta ($34), which was delicious. The pork belly was crispy and tender, and the spicy sauce on top was a nice enhancement. Plus, the accompanying gigante beans and chickories were surprisingly tasty.
I also liked the broiled striped bass ($35), as it was very fresh. Unfortunately, the saffron shellfish sauce was so beany that it became overwhelming to eat it.
The hanger steak ($35) had a good flavor, but it was tough to cut and chewy. (Note that it’s served rare.) I did enjoy the soft fingerling potatoes in the tasty leek fondue.
The paccheri ($28 large, $16 small) ragu was fine. The beef cheek was tender and savory but along with the tomato agrodolce, was a bit sparse. I could have done without the breadcrumbs, which brought an unwelcome crunch.
Among the appetizers, try the quattro formaggi lamb meatballs ($17), which are incredibly tender and bathing in a wonderful spiced tomato sauce, as well as the lasagna fritto ($13), which I appreciated for its crunchy exterior and avoidance of too much ricotta.
For dessert, I ordered the gelati (your choice of gelato or sorbet for $9) and found it a refreshing way to end a remarkable meal.
Given that Amara pushes its daily aperitivo happy hour, I’m surprised there wasn’t more seating in the bar area. At least there’s a large cocktail selection. For example:
The negroni classic ($12) was perfectly crafted with Death’s Door Gin and not too bitter.- The Black Manhattan ($15) uses amaro and was quite enjoyable.
- I found the Amaragarita ($13) to be refreshing. I taste the peach amaretto first, then the Lunazul tequila.
Amara serves lunch and dinner every day.
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See more photos in our Amara Flickr album.
