HopCat is actually a chain, but the State Street location is a go-to on weekends. They have a lineup of 130 taps of unique beers, which is pretty much crazy. Last time I went there late night on a weekend we weren’t able to get a table, I blame it on the fries.
HopCat’s Cosmik fries (previously named “crack” fries, if you’re a HopCat OG) are out of this world good. They’re great alone, but they have really fun variations like the Vladimir Poutine, Loaded Fries, and Sloppy Fries. Oh my goodness, those Sloppy Fries ($9 – Cosmik Fries with Sloppy Joseph, cheese sauce & scallions) are so good that songs could be written about them. The Sloppy Jo-seph had such a great flavor, a good combination of sweet and savory.
It’s a great place to go for a unique beer, but it might not be the best place to go for a really fresh beer. I was really sad when one of my favorites tasted off, but what can you expect with that many tap lines?
The first time I went to HopCat was late night and we had a few apps, the regular Cosmik fries, cheese curds and probably more. It was during Madison Craft Beer Week, so you can’t judge me for not remembering.
This past time that we visited was during lunch, and it was so weird to see the restaurant so quiet. The space is so huge and inviting, it’s no wonder why it draws such a crowd.
AJ had the Nashville Hot Chicken ($12.50- Skin-on chicken thigh with our Nashville hot seasoning, garlic aioli, lettuce, tomato, onion & pickles on a brioche bun. Served with a side.) it definitely wasn’t Nashville hot, but it packed a lot of heat and flavor.
I had the classic cheeseburger ($11.25 – Plain or with a choice of cheese; cheddar, pepper jack, Swiss, dill Havarti, Muenster, smoked Gouda, feta or blue cheese crumbles or bar cheese. Served with lettuce, tomato & onion. Served with a side.) can we talk about how epic the choice of cheese is? Oh, how very Wisconsin. I went for the Muenster and it didn’t disappoint. Just look at that melty Muenster.
HopCat is a fantastic place to have some late night food on Madison’s famous State Street, even though the address is technically 222 W Gorham St, Madison, WI 53703. Where is your favorite place to snack late night?
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