Burger lovers have spoken, and for the third year in a row, Licari’s Bar & Grill has claimed the title of Madison Burger Week champion.
Madison Burger Week invited diners to explore some of the area’s best burgers and vote for their favorites. Votes were collected from May 15-22. A total of 952 votes were cast during this year’s competition.
Licari’s Bar & Grill took the top spot with The 65’er. The win makes them the first restaurant in Madison Burger Week history to win three consecutive years.
“We work very hard, and we are so grateful for everybody that comes in here to support us every single day,” said Sarah Nelson of Licari’s Bar & Grill. “We couldn’t do any of this without everybody who comes in, especially after being in this location for the last 65 years. We could not be any more proud of our staff.”
Top 3 Finalists
- Licari’s Bar & Grill – The 65’er
- Union Corners Tavern – Union Smash Burger
- Hank’s Burgers & Fish Fry – Double Hank Burger
Licari’s roots in Madison stretch back decades. The restaurant originally started in the West Washington area in the 1940s before moving to its current location in 1961. Nelson’s grandfather, Larry Schmidt, purchased the business in 1981, and the family continues to build on that legacy today.
Nelson said Madison Burger Week has helped introduce new customers to what she describes as one of Madison’s hidden gems.
“We know you can get really great burgers in a lot of different places in Madison, but we pride ourselves on coming up with something that adds a little spice, a little fun and a little diversity to the menu,” Nelson said. “Madison Burger Week has been a great way for people from across the city to find us and try those unique burgers.”
