Kevin Oresick
I’ve been a regular at Crescendo Espresso Bar for nearly a decade, dating back to their original location, which still holds a lot of personal meaning for me. I came for the coffee – which is consistently among the best anywhere (more on this in a moment) – and stayed because it became a genuine home and community. The team’s attention to detail is exceptional; they don’t cut corners and clearly care deeply about their craft.
Now living abroad, and although no longer able to frequent the shop in-person, I continue to purchase multiple five-pound bags of their Cap Stone espresso blend quarterly throughout the year, as this blend is simply one of the best I’ve had anywhere: a well-balanced blend that is appropriately treated / roasted in-house, enabling distinct notes as described.
Beyond great products, Crescendo fosters a forward-looking, welcoming culture that’s tightly woven into the Madison and greater Wisconsin community. An outstanding place run by people who truly do things the right way.
Kudos to the Crescendo Team all these years later. A+.
… moreBobbi Shannon
I was pleasantly surprised when I received the pumpkin spiced latte with oat milk I ordered. Honestly, so happy to see this cute latte art before applying a lid.
The latte itself was delicious. This was the first of three coffee shops I visited over my stay in Madison. I have been thinking about this coffee ever since my visit, it was so good. Definitely a top favorite in the area!
… moreBen Sirianni
Great location in Hilldale with easy parking. Great atmosphere that balances—lively without being loud, and cozy enough to settle in for a while. It’s the kind of place you can meet a friend, get some work done, or just enjoy a great cup of coffee or some great food.
… moreMadilyn Ellis
I like crescendo but today I was sitting at a table and someone (a food stylist?) took over the table next to me with a camera set up and was quite rude. I had to move and was lucky another table was available. It would have been so easy for her to set up somewhere else or ask or give an actual apology.
Staff could figure out a better set up for photography or at least prioritize being polite to patrons.
… moreJustin Jones
I stopped in Sunday morning for a quick coffee. I thought the service was rapid and friendly. My coffee was really good and I appreciate that they have the milk and simple syrup out for people to add as much as they desire. The one thing I will say is that the store can get quite loud. The location is not large and there isn’t much within the store to cancel out any excessive noise. Wouldn’t be my go to spot for studying. But overall would come back!
… morehtx herbivore
I had a pumpkin spice latte (upon the barista’s recommendation) and really enjoyed it. Though the price was a bit steep ($5.64 for a 12oz), both the coffee and the atmosphere were great. There was music playing in the background, but it was still a good place to read or get some work done.
… moreEloise
Stopped by for a snack while running errands. We got the bean burrito and the pesto egg sandwich. Both were good, pretty standard coffee shop food. Small portions but accurate for the price. This is a nice place to take a break from the cold at Hildale.
… moreKasey McKinney
Crescendo is fantastic. Their Monroe location was one of my favorite coffee shops in town and I miss the warmth and coziness of that space, but it’s nice to be able to still get their espresso and drinks, even in the mall area. It can get busy on the weekends and hard to find a space to sit, but there is plenty or room in the outdoor courtyard at the mall to take things to go in the warmer months.
… moreJen Rae
Wow. Ordered avocado toast. Got mushed avo on bread. Even my kid said she could make better. Not even an attempt to toast or to present something worthy of the cost. Ate it b/c we were hungry and long line up. Eat-in folks all had to-go containers. What a waste.
… moreNicola Porto
The best in Madison: always and forever. The coffee is delicious and thoughtfully made. The owners are some of the most creative and generous business owners in our community!
Highly recommended the Nitro Cold Brew — smooth, creamy, and a perfect medium roast.
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