Nestled in the heart of Madison, Wisconsin, Echo Tap and Grille offers more than just a casual dining experience. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, welcoming staff, and wide-ranging menu, this local favorite has something for everyone from craft beers and creative cocktails to hearty entrees and satisfying comfort food. Whether you’re visiting for a laid-back lunch or a fun night out with friends, the Echo Tap and Grille menu delivers on both flavor and variety, offering a perfect balance of traditional bar fare and innovative dishes made with fresh ingredients.
Overview of Echo Tap and Grille
Echo Tap and Grille is a beloved establishment that caters to locals, university students, and visitors alike. Its central location, within walking distance of Capitol Square and the University of Wisconsin campus, makes it a prime gathering spot for game days, happy hours, and casual dining. The menu is designed to accommodate different tastes and appetites, from light bites to hearty meals. Their rotating beer list and daily specials also make it an appealing choice for food lovers and beer enthusiasts alike.
Starters and Shareables
The appetizer section of the Echo Tap and Grille menu is built for sharing. Whether you’re starting off a meal or just looking to snack over drinks, there’s a good mix of fried favorites and lighter options:
- Wisconsin Cheese Curds Lightly battered and fried golden, served with ranch dipping sauce.
- Nachos Topped with cheddar, tomatoes, jalapeños, onions, sour cream, and your choice of chicken or beef.
- Wings Available in several sauces like Buffalo, BBQ, and Garlic Parmesan.
- Spinach Artichoke Dip Creamy, warm, and served with tortilla chips.
- Loaded Fries Crispy fries topped with cheese, bacon bits, green onions, and drizzled with ranch.
These starters are ideal for groups and perfect for pairing with one of Echo Tap’s many tap beers.
Signature Sandwiches and Burgers
The sandwiches and burgers at Echo Tap and Grille are a major highlight of the menu. Made with quality meats, fresh buns, and creative toppings, each sandwich is a meal in itself. They come with a side of fries, but patrons can also substitute for onion rings, sweet potato fries, or a side salad.
Popular Sandwiches
- The Echo Reuben Corned beef piled high with sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing on marble rye.
- Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Crispy chicken breast tossed in buffalo sauce with lettuce, tomato, and blue cheese dressing.
- Turkey Club Roasted turkey, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and mayo layered on toasted wheat bread.
Burger Favorites
- Echo Burger A classic cheeseburger with lettuce, tomato, onion, and your choice of cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack cheese.
- Bacon BBQ Burger Topped with smoky bacon, barbecue sauce, and crispy onion straws.
- Spicy Jalapeño Burger With jalapeños, chipotle mayo, and pepper jack cheese for those who like a little heat.
Vegetarian options are available, including a black bean burger or portobello mushroom sandwich for plant-based diners.
Entrées and Daily Specials
Beyond sandwiches and snacks, Echo Tap and Grille also offers a rotating selection of entrées and comfort food dishes that are perfect for a sit-down dinner. Many guests come specifically for the daily specials, which include seasonal items and local favorites.
Hearty Main Dishes
- Fish Fry A Wisconsin staple offered on Fridays, typically featuring battered cod, coleslaw, and fries.
- Chicken Alfredo Grilled chicken served over fettuccine with creamy Alfredo sauce and garlic bread.
- Steak and Potatoes A grilled sirloin steak served with mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables.
The daily specials change throughout the week and often include tacos, pasta dishes, or comfort classics like meatloaf or chili mac. These specials give regular customers something new to try while still offering that home-style flavor Echo Tap is known for.
Salads and Lighter Fare
For those looking for a lighter meal, the Echo Tap and Grille menu includes a number of salads that are anything but boring. Fresh ingredients and generous portions make these a filling option, whether as a main course or a side dish.
- Southwest Chicken Salad Grilled chicken with black beans, corn, tomatoes, shredded cheese, and tortilla strips on a bed of romaine, served with chipotle ranch dressing.
- Cobb Salad Classic combination of chicken, bacon, avocado, egg, blue cheese, and tomato on mixed greens.
- Caesar Salad Crisp romaine, shaved Parmesan, croutons, and Caesar dressing, with an option to add grilled chicken or shrimp.
These dishes offer a healthier option without compromising on flavor, and they’re great for lunch or dinner.
Drinks and Beverages
No visit to Echo Tap and Grille would be complete without exploring their drink menu. The tap list includes both local craft beers and nationally recognized brands. With over a dozen beers on draft, there’s something for every taste, from IPAs and stouts to lagers and seasonal brews.
In addition to beer, Echo Tap offers a full bar with signature cocktails, wine selections, and non-alcoholic beverages like sodas, iced teas, and lemonades. During happy hour, drink specials make it a popular destination for after-work meetups and pre-game gatherings.
Featured Beers and Cocktails
- Madison Craft IPA A local favorite with bold hops and a citrus finish.
- Old Fashioned A Wisconsin tradition made with brandy, muddled orange, cherry, and bitters.
- Moscow Mule Vodka, ginger beer, and lime served in a chilled copper mug.
Whether you’re unwinding after a long day or just enjoying a weekend out, the drink menu is designed to complement the food offerings perfectly.
Atmosphere and Dining Experience
The setting at Echo Tap and Grille is casual, welcoming, and perfect for all occasions. It’s the kind of place where you can catch a game on one of the many TVs, enjoy dinner with family, or grab drinks with friends. With a blend of modern design and rustic elements, the interior creates a warm and energetic vibe.
Service is consistently noted as friendly and efficient. Staff members are knowledgeable about the menu and often make great recommendations. Whether dining inside or enjoying the outdoor patio during warmer months, the experience remains consistently enjoyable.
Echo Tap and Grille has earned its reputation as one of Madison’s go-to spots for dependable food, a welcoming atmosphere, and great drinks. The menu is diverse enough to cater to different tastes, offering everything from cheese curds and wings to full dinners and salads. With its central location, friendly staff, and consistently tasty dishes, Echo Tap and Grille is a place worth visiting again and again.
Whether you’re in the mood for a juicy burger, a cold craft beer, or just some comfort food after a long day, the Echo Tap and Grille menu is sure to satisfy. It’s not just a restaurant it’s part of the Madison community, serving good food and good vibes seven days a week.