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CIRC

CIRC, 1 W Dayton St, Madison

4.1
RESTAURANT RATING: 
VERY GOOD
4.1 out of 5 (553 Ratings)
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0.8 miles The Sylvee Madison
About CIRC
The Spotlight on CIRC

Stylish Pre-Show Dining in the Heart of Madison

Located inside the elegant Madison Concourse Hotel, CIRC brings a polished yet approachable vibe to downtown Madison. Just steps from major music venues, this Contemporary American restaurant stands out for its modern decor, seasonal menus, and locally sourced ingredients. With floor-to-ceiling windows and warm lighting, it strikes a balance between upscale and comfortable—perfect for kicking off your concert night in style.

Why Concert-goers love it

CIRC is a favorite among music fans thanks to its prime location near key venues like the Overture Center and The Sylvee. It’s known for efficient service, so you can enjoy a full meal without worrying about missing the opening act. The space is quiet enough for conversation but still lively, making it a great spot to build pre-show excitement. Many guests also appreciate the thoughtful cocktail menu and curated wine list—ideal for a celebratory toast before the show.

Who this Restaurant is great for

  • Groups of friends looking for a fun, classy spot to fuel up before the music starts
  • Solo travelers wanting a relaxed, welcoming place to dine before a show
  • Couples planning a romantic night out with dinner and live music
  • Fans who want a pre-show buzz in a stylish setting
  • Budget-conscious concertgoers seeking upscale flavor without over-the-top prices

What People Say

Guests rave about the fresh, creative menu featuring local produce and inventive takes on American classics. The brunch and dinner menus are both highly praised, and the staff earns top marks for being attentive and knowledgeable. Many reviewers mention how easy it is to grab a quick bite before a show, and how the ambiance strikes just the right note—elegant but not stuffy.

Areas for Improvement

Some diners noted that prices can be a bit on the higher side, especially for drinks. A few reviews mentioned slower service during peak hours, especially when there’s a concert rush. Still, most agree that the quality and location make it worth it.

The Bottom Line

For concert-goers in Madison, CIRC is a stylish, convenient spot to enjoy great food and drinks without missing a beat.

Average Price
$30 and under
Cuisine
Contemporary American
Dress Code
Casual Dress
Opening Hours
Breakfast
Daily 7:00 am-11:00 am
Lunch
Mon-Fri 11:00 am-2:00 pm
Brunch
Sat, Sun 11:00 am-2:00 pm

CIRC Customer Reviews

Many have visited, but none have returned to tell the tale. Will you be the first to write a review of CIRC?

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TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

CIRC is #78 of 1030 things to do in Madison

5 of 5 stars5 out of 5
By: wecanoe, Wausau, Wisconsin
Sat 1 Apr, 2023
l Dinner was served in the bar area, which was a much cozier atmosphere than the average looking main restaurant. We enjoyed a charcuterie board and flatbread pizza as a light meal along with generous...

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5 of 5 stars5 out of 5
By: Taylor B, Chicago, Illinois
Wed 11 Jan, 2023
l The Madison Concourse Hotel in Madison, Wisconsin, checks all the boxes...convenient location, parking, luxurious rooms, quiet, amenities, attentive service and house-keeping, bar/lounge and an...

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5 of 5 stars5 out of 5
By: Mariah-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
Wed 10 Aug, 2022
l Went to CIRC for lunch today with a family member from out of state. She’s a vegetarian and absolutely loved the salad buffet. I’ve known how amazing the buffet here is for years. Fresh salad...

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CIRC 1 W Dayton St, Madison