skopman

Hello all,

My Dh is running the Mad City Marathon in Madison this coming Sunday and we are looking for a good Italian restaurant to carbo load at on Saturday night. Any suggestions? We don't need anything fancy, just good, hearty pasta...and lots of it!

We found one, Tutto Pasta, that looked pretty good...is it? Is there something better?

Thanks!

JulieVikmanis

Greenbush Bar in the Italian Workmen's Club Building at 914 Regent St.
(608) 257 2874 has something of a cult following for it's "real" Italian vibe. It's in the basement of the typical old ethnic group hall kind of place and it's wonderful. It's not just old-fashioned schmatlzy either. They update some of the classics as well. Do a google search on it and you'll find reviews in the local Madison papers and magazines as well as reviews of foodie blogs. With a dinner at Greenbush under his belt, your DH will probably win the marathon. Enjoy

Holldoll

There's also a place that's been there for ages called Lombardino's. I haven't been there for a long time, but it's had a great reputation. They have a website--lombardinos.com.

ChiDad

If you are staying on the west side, I'd recommend Biaggi's on Junction Road. It is a small chain, great food, decor and service. Not as upscale at Lombardinos, but very nice.

And, save room for Bratfest which will be in full swing right by the marathin's finish line.

Weather forecast is for mid to high 70s. Should be a great race day.

bethke14

I love Tutto Pasta! The portions are quite large and it's very tasty. There is one on State St and one on King St. The one on King St. is more spacious - the tables at Tutto Pasta on State St are very close together. But I love it anyways

I also agree with Biaggi's, and is a good choice if you're staying on the West Side or in Middleton.

afields

Lombardino's was purchased and re-vamped a few years ago. It is one of our favorites. I'd make a reservation ahead of time.

Greenbush is unique. I don't think they take reservations.

Tutto Pasta is on State St. so the ambience is more interesting

Biaggi's is suburban chain food.

Going to Bratfest, AFTER the marathon, is a must.

skopman

Thanks for the tips! We made a reservation at Tutto Pasta on King St since it is closer to where we are staying (near Alliant Energy Center) and the menu looked like what we were looking for. We'll definitely be heading to bratfest after the race. It's pretty much his motivation for running!

Any help with cooling down the weather on Sunday would be much appreciated

Thanks again!