Fuddruckers is back in the Madison area for the first time since its State Street location closed in 2007. It took over the space once occupied by Cheeseburger in Paradise last October.
Speaking of which, do you ever remember Cheeseburger in Paradise’s parking lot being anything but full? It’s strange to see that lot typically empty, but after dining at this particular Fuddruckers, I can see why.
Needs improvement: This Fuddruckers is not up to the standards that the national chain sets.
- This location has zero atmosphere–it’s very sterile inside.
- Condiments such as ketchup weren’t stocked.
- No trays are given when you pick up your food order, which means multiple trips carrying hot pans.
- The lids for the cups don’t even fit the cups!
The menu: I’ve been to several Fuddruckers, and at least the food here was consistent in quality compared to other locations. If you’re not familiar, the menu is made up almost entirely of burgers (I miss the range of appetizers that Fuddruckers used to serve).
- The Bourbon burger ($7.99) was a satisfying combination of bacon, onions and BBQ sauce on a fresh-baked bun.
- The chili on the chili cheese fries ($3.99) was surprisingly delicious–meaty and not too watery. More cheese was needed, though.
- My favorite topping at the condiment bar was the jalapeno nacho cheese. Good thickness and a slight touch of heat. It goes well with everything on the menu, even the salads.
Fuddruckers is open every day for lunch, dinner and carryout. Beer is served, too.
The owners of 
Other entrees include curry dishes and stir-fried noodles dishes. I enjoyed the simplicity of the Tom Khem ($8 at lunch), which was white rice, a hard-boiled egg and braised pork. After you’re done eating the tender pork, you may want to soak up the rest of the soy sauce gravy with the rice.
Earlier this year, KFC released the limited-time Nashville Hot Chicken in bone-in and tender form. This red-orange-colored, extra-crispy chicken is actually spicy (maybe a 6 out of 10), unlike KFC’s hot wings. The restaurant claims “you are about to taste the best spicy chicken you’ve ever had,” and I don’t totally disagree. That’s because the Nashville recipe isn’t just spicy, it also has a touch of sweetness to give the chicken more depth.
I had low expectations for the Jalapeno Fresco Spicy Chicken Sandwich at Wendy’s, only because its Spicy Chicken Sandwich is a joke. It turns out, I actually like this new entry, which is around for a limited time. The fresh, diced jalapenos are the only thing that makes the sandwich spicy, but it’s an enjoyable heat.
