14 College Towns with Secret Food Scenes That Rival Big Cities

5. Madison, Wisconsin: A Cheese Lover's Paradise

Madison, the capital of Wisconsin and home to the University of Wisconsin-Madison, is a cheese lover's dream. The city's food scene is deeply rooted in the state's dairy heritage, with an abundance of artisanal cheese shops and restaurants that celebrate this beloved ingredient. From the famous cheese curds at The Old Fashioned to the gourmet offerings at L'Etoile, Madison's culinary landscape is rich with dairy delights. The Dane County Farmers Market, one of the largest producers-only markets in the country, offers a wide array of local cheeses and other artisanal goods, making Madison a must-visit for any cheese enthusiast.