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Welcome to The Downtowner

At The Downtowner, nestled in historic downtown Madison, we celebrate comfort food in a warm, friendly atmosphere. Our menu features an array of fresh salads, hearty sandwiches, and delightful coffee and tea options — with something for everyone, including kids and pets. Our customers rave about our generously portioned sandwiches, like the beloved pesto chicken Alfredo, and our homemade soups, perfect for a satisfying lunch. With outdoor seating and a dog-friendly vibe, it’s an ideal spot for vibrant social gatherings. Join us to experience the true taste of Madison, where every visit feels like coming home.

The Downtowner: Reviews & Ratings

Steve C.
Steve C.

Yummy food. Great place to visit when we're in Madison. Always great sandwiches and soup

L S.
L S.

Perfect spot in historic downtown Madison with dining spots on the sidewalk to dine with the dogs. Shade side of street and staff offer up dog waters. Wish I had taken pics of how BIG our sandwiches were. Our three cheese sandwich with ham was huge and delicious; the homemade chicken salad with whole grapes was hands down the winner for lunch. So tasty with a buttery toasted sour dough bread, bag of chips and a dill sliver. Great lunch spot and seems many knew this. YUM!

Jerrod W.
Jerrod W.

Pesto Chicken Alfredo Sandwich!!! This is hands down the best chicken sandwich I have ever eaten. The grilled cheese is almost as good as mine, according to my daughter. Wonderful, friendly staff and great atmosphere. Do not visit Madison without checking it out.

Christina B.
Christina B.

This cute cafe is right in the middle of Downtown Madison as the name suggests. There's plenty of free street parking outside. They have lots of sandwiches to choose from, in addition to pizzas, soups, and salads. I had the spinach chicken wrap. Everything tasted fresh, which is why I was so surprised it was served with a bag of chips. It was still good though. My mom had the potato soup and loved it. The staff were friendly and we got our food quickly.

Leslie S.
Leslie S.

I had the grilled cheese which was delicious and my husband had the hot brown. Both were delicious. I did think the price was a high considering plates and utensils were plastic or throwaway. Napkins were paper towels. Chips were a Ruffles bag. Homemade Cookies ended the meal and were fantastic and a steal price wise. I would go back though.

Laura M.
Laura M.

The locals recommended Downtowner for a casual lunch and it was a great choice. There is a nice selection of sandwiches, wraps, salads, soups, pizzas and don't miss dessert. We had the chicken salad with the side of red potato salad and the Italian turkey pesto on focaccia. Best sandwich I've had in awhile. Portions are large so you won't leave hungry. Checkout the oversized cookies they are worth it. Our server Chelsea was excellent!

Billie K.
Billie K.

Food first, the potato soup was really good. The potato salad had no flavor. Salad was bigger than expected. There is a lot of seating. Nothing fancy just a casual place to have a casual lunch or dinner. The service was slow but they are low staffed. We waited at least 20 minutes for them to take our order. Would likely try a different spot while in Madison next time, but, that soup- YUM!

Laken T.
Laken T.

A Madison staple!! The Downtown is a classic Madison experience for lunch! Friendly staff and service. I crave the loaded potato soup and grilled cheese and when I'm back in my hometown it's a must stop! So yum! Also save room for dessert and get a cookie or slice of cake. Parking is always free and lots of adorable shopping in the area!

Location

Welcome to the heart of Madison, Indiana, where culinary delights meet a casual yet inviting atmosphere at The Downtowner. Nestled at 104 E Main St, this charming establishment offers a delectable selection of salads, sandwiches, and beverages that are sure to please every palate.

The Downtowner prides itself on its versatility. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite on-the-go or settling in for a leisurely lunch with friends (or dogs, as it's pet-friendly), there's something for everyone. The outdoor seating allows guests to soak in the vibrant vibe of historic downtown Madison while enjoying a meal that is as hearty as it is satisfying.

  • Menu Highlights: Customers rave about the generous portions and fresh ingredients. The homemade chicken salad, featuring whole grapes and buttery toasted sourdough, is a standout, alongside the famed pesto chicken alfredo sandwich—a must-try for any sandwich aficionado.
  • Community Vibes: The casual atmosphere is perfect for families and groups, along with options for outdoor dining that welcome furry friends. Many patrons have commented on the friendly and attentive staff, contributing to the warm and inviting feel of The Downtowner.
  • Accessibility: With utilities like takeout, delivery, and catering available, it’s an ideal choice for busy days. Plus, the complimentary Wi-Fi makes it a great spot for those who want to work remotely while enjoying a good meal.

The ambiance strikes a balance, maintaining a relaxed vibe with moderate noise levels, making it conducive for both social gatherings and family outings. The food is complemented by a selection of drinks, including coffee, teas, and even alcohol, catering to different tastes.

The Downtowner isn’t just a cafe; it’s a community hub. It’s a place where the love for food meets togetherness. Customers have expressed their delight in returning, knowing they can always find a hearty meal and friendly faces waiting for them.

In summary, whether you’re in the mood for a crisp salad, a sumptuous sandwich, or a cup of coffee to savor, The Downtowner stands out as a premier destination in Madison. Next time you’re in the area, make it a point to stop by and indulge in a dining experience that’s both satisfying and memorable!