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Welcome to Ideal Bar

At Ideal Bar, located at 1968 Atwood Ave in Madison, WI, the focus is on creating a welcoming environment for locals and visitors alike. With a vibrant yet low-key atmosphere, patrons enjoy chill nights filled with laughter over drinks and games like pool. The talented bartenders, including Mary and Joey, are known for their exceptional service and attentiveness, making every visit feel special. While the food menu is minimal—featuring options like pizza and chips—it's the inviting ambiance, friendly staff, and classic amenities like a jukebox that keep people coming back. Ideal Bar is truly a local gem for unwinding with friends.

LOCATIONS

Welcome to Ideal Bar, a hidden gem nestled at 1968 Atwood Ave in Madison, Wisconsin. This establishment isn't just another watering hole; it's a slice of community charm that has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike.

With its relaxed ambiance, Ideal Bar serves as the perfect backdrop for winding down after a long day or kicking off a fun night out. While the food offerings are limited—mostly pizza and snacks—the true allure lies within its inviting atmosphere and superb customer service.

  • Atmosphere: A low-key environment, Ideal Bar boasts two pool tables, a juke box, and multiple TVs airing your favorite sports, including football games. This spot effortlessly balances a friendly vibe with the excitement of game day.
  • Exceptional Service: Patrons rave about the bartenders, especially Marry, Joey, and Bill, who not only craft amazing drinks but also remember your favorites. Their warm greetings and engaging personalities make every visit feel personal.
  • Affordable Drinks: Guests appreciate the strong, cheap drinks available, with daily specials running from Monday to Thursday. It's the ideal place to enjoy a cold beer after hitting the happy hour at nearby eateries.
  • Community Feel: The friendly atmosphere encourages camaraderie, making it a hotspot for playing pool, sharing stories, and even participating in pool tournaments.

Whether you’re swinging by for a quick drink, catching up with friends, or enjoying a night of pool, Ideal Bar embodies the spirit of a classic neighborhood tavern. With countless reviews praising the warm atmosphere and knowledgeable staff, it's clear that Ideal Bar is more than just a bar; it's a community staple. So, if you're in the area, do yourself a favor and stop in—you won’t be disappointed!

START YOUR REVIEW OF Ideal Bar
Jon Nash
Jon Nash

One of my favorite bars. Been going there for years now. It's a bar so there's not much for food. There's places to eat right next door. They have pizza and chips and maybe a couple more things.

emily cameron
emily cameron

The bartender Marry is amazing she even remembered our fave drinks. We played pool danced and had fun in a low key environment. Great place to grab a beer at the end of the night

Lauren Hermes
Lauren Hermes

If I could give 100 stars, I would. Every single bartender is extremely friendly and knowledgeable. This place really knows how to make someone feel welcome. If you ever have a chance, or are in the area, stop in.

Peter Johnson
Peter Johnson

Great place to relax and have a drink. Bartenders are extremely nice and engage with customers. Joey and Mary are the best!

Morgan Murphy
Morgan Murphy

Hopped by after happy hour margaritas & tacos across the street. This spot was an awesome no-frills bar. They’ve got a private room in the back, two pool tables. Juke box, pull tabs, tv on for football games (the lions were playing so I was tuned in). Beer on draft and also cans. Bartender was easy-going. The only pic I took was in the bathroom stall, haha. There’s a male bathroom and a female bathroom.

Kristin Olson
Kristin Olson

Stop asking if you should go, just do it. Excellent ambiance and customer service. A great place to go to watch the Packers. Bartender Bill and Karington are Amazing!!! You won't be disappointed.

Ray Plum IV
Ray Plum IV

Played in a pool tournament with 20 people, nice friendly atmosphere. I only seen pizzas on a menu board, but I didn't have any so I won't give it a food rating, maybe next time.

Joshua Storer
Joshua Storer

Great bar with strong, cheap drinks. The bartenders are great, they have daily specials M-Th, 2 pool tables, and the atmosphere is totally chill. Plus, who isn't into an old school jukebox?