The Hilldale experience: Food and drink that’s out of the ordinary but appealing to all

Madison.com | June 15, 2021

The Hilldale experience: Food and drink that’s out of the ordinary but appealing to all

In a city that boasts personality and local pride, a place like Hilldale just makes sense. Hilldale offers a taste of Madison, Wisconsin, and emulates all walks of the area’s culture and people. With foodies, creatives and Badger fans abounding, Hilldale makes Madisonians feel right at home and tourists feel like locals.

Located on the West Side, Hilldale functions as a one-stop shop for just about anything from retail shops, farmers markets, fitness classes, events and a killer dining scene. But it’s so much more than a retail destination – it’s a community.

Foodies rejoice

Among the plethora of destinations that Hilldale has to offer within its strollable, getaway-in-your-backyard style neighborhood, its food and drink scene is unmatched. Cuisine choices and outdoor patios are aplenty, and your taste buds will thank you at each spot.

If you’re in the mood for sushi, stop into Muramoto and watch the cooks prepare your rolls right before your eyes. Step into beach culture in Brazil, Uruguay and Southern California – all in one – at bartaco. This coastal-style joint serves up tacos, bowls, amazing sides, cocktails and so much more. For something on the lighter side, perhaps after your spin class, check out Blended. This locally owned acai bowl, juice and smoothie shop has the perfect, healthy pick-me-up foods. If you need a caffeine boost, stop into Crescendo Espresso Bar for some specialty coffee that is approachable for everyone.

Each business within the food and drink scene offers a distinctive experience for Hilldale guests. The best part? You can stroll and eat, or enjoy an outdoor patio and stay awhile. Hilldale brings the choices, you control your dining experience.

Eat, drink and be merry

For the ultimate Hilldale patio experience, Café Hollander is the place to be. “Bringing our concept [to Hilldale] introduced us to a whole new community,” said Trevor Nackers, director of marketing with Café Hollander. “What makes Hilldale distinct is its variety. We have a little bit of everything here.”

Café Hollander, with several other locations in the area, brought their concept to Hilldale in 2016, and it has remained a Madisonian favorite ever since.

Café Hollander’s owner loved the charm of the Grand Café-style culture while traveling abroad in countries like Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg and wanted to bring this back to the states. “He wanted to bring the food, the beer and the entire experience home,” said Ileana Rivera, chief operating officer. “People ate, drank and were merry there.”

The Grand Café culture is a robust, inside-outside way of dining, and it was perfect for Hilldale.

“What we love about our Grand Cafés is that we are able to welcome such a wide, diverse demographic between student, government and hospital employees, tourists and, of course, the neighborhood that has embraced us,” Nackers said. “We love the energy level of the Madisonians and their willingness to participate in new activities from ice bars to green houses – everyone is always game here.”

Check out Café Hollander’s open-concept space this summer for a place to gather with your crew.Be included

The culture of Hilldale is inclusive and welcoming. So, consider this your invitation. Get back out there, experience something new, connect with others and join the community at Hilldale – they’re waiting for you!

Visit their website to see all that the Hilldale dining scene has to offer.

See the full feature here.