Owen Martin
My friends and I always get together in Madison for a holiday reunion. DelecTable’s been on our shortlist for a while. We tried to get in last year, but they were already booked. Apparently, some rock star bartender was doing a residency, and tickets were scarce…anyway. Upon arrival, the parking area was quiet, and the strip mall location, inconspicuous. By now, we’ve all come to know locations like these tend to hide the most precious gems. It hopefully means the money saved on the space is instead spent on the quality food–and in DelecTable’s case, I learned they also use it to pay their staff a livable wage.
I notified them that I was running a few minutes late, which they informed me was no problem. When I entered through the Vom Fass storefront, I still needed a pen to sign my Xmas cards, which they were quick to provide before taking my coat and directing me to my friends. I was pleased that I had only missed the first course, and even more so when they immediately dropped it in front of me so that I could quickly catch up while my friends politely scolded me. I was also greeted with a glass of sparkling wine, which I appreciated but declined, since I don’t drink. They took it away, and immediately replaced it with some n/a bubbles that were light, crisp and welcoming. Before I knew it, the top of the dish in front of me was opened with a blowtorch, revealing a few bites of the most delicious (and still warm!) Pumpkin Soup.
A few courses later, came these volcanic rock orbs, filled with two pieces of expertly sliced Tuna Sashimi with a dusting of Ground Ginger and Cantaloupe Microgreens. Our friend from LA commented on how she didn’t expect to come to the landlocked Midwest during the winter to find such delicious fresh fish. She didn’t immediately put it up there with chef Nozawa’s, but she was pleasantly surprised. Course six arrived shortly thereafter. An Oxtail Cavatelli, braised for over 24 hours with al dente pasta made fresh in-house. The table agreed…this dish very well may have been the highlight of the night.
Dessert was a Deconstructed Butterscotch PB&J Custard with a Cinnamon Toast Crunch Touille, served in a small jar coated in Peppermint Marshmallow that was once again torched tableside. I didn’t ask for it, but I also received a small cup of Belgian Cocoa with a dollop of freshly made Whipped Cream and Orange Zest. It felt like liquid velvet, as it passed into my sated belly.
11 courses came and went in just under 2.5 hours (including 15min intermission!). The biggest surprise of all was when we learned that this was the VERY FIRST night of their new Winter Menu. It was the best meal we’ve ever had, and you’re telling me it was the first time they’d ever served it?! Dude, these guys are pros. At no point did the dinner feel rushed. The four-person FOH team moved fluidly, communicated well, never appeared overwhelmed, and seemed to genuinely enjoy what they were doing. I did notice several tables needed their checks revised, but that could’ve been some technical issue.
All in all, we were absolutely blown away. We’ve always kept the tradition of selecting a new, fun Madison establishment for our Holiday dinner, but after our experience at DelecTable, it will remain part of our tradition moving forward. We would put it up there with the best in the Midwest. It’s an Alinea-style experience, with a Wisconsin flair, at a fraction of the price.
Thanks to everyone at DelecTable for making our holiday that much more special.
… moreStephanie Flock
The entire crew was fantastic! Forster really stuck out to us though. He was not only I formative but he was also fun. We’ve eaten at other chef’s tables were the food was great but the chefs were very serious. Forster really put us at ease and we felt like we could ask questions. The entire pm experience was amazing, from check in to paying the bill, I’ve rarely had such exceptional service. We will definitely be back
… moreSteve varsos
This was our first time trying DelecTable. We will definitely be back again. Everything was top notch! The food was incredible, the wine pairings were spot on and the service was wonderful.
… moreMary Schreiber
My husband and I both thoroughly enjoyed our dinner at Delectable. Everything served was fabulous! Can’t say enough about it. Also had fun with the chef and all the people involved.
… moreSandy
Great tasting experience! We sat at the Chef’s counter and were able to see everything being prepared for presentation. Terrific presentation and interaction with the chef and other staff. I would definitely recommend this experience for a fun evening out.
… moreSheila McGraw
Our whole experience was superb! The service is spot on and the food and wine descriptions provided by the executive chef and sommelier were educational while we enjoyed each course. We loved being treated so well! The food was delicious and just enough of a portion to taste but not overly filling. This experience is perfect for the special occasion as it is in the expensive side but worth every cent! Thank you.
… morebanders
Great food and even better staff. The wine pairings were great yet affordable enough to buy a bottle or two for home. Even though I attended the 5 course Thursday, the menu offered options from elevated comfort food (citrus mashed potatoes) to adventurous (perfectly prepared octopus). I hope to attend their other dining experiences as time allows. I hear there may be a new 10 course offering in the near future? And more hands-on cooking classes?
… moreAshley Toy
Amazing experience! We did the winter themed menu with quarter pour wine pairings and it was perfect. Not a bad bite or sip all night. Highly recommend for any foodies that like to hear the why behind the meal. We sat at the counter and it was worth it for the up close and personal experience.
… moreMegan Koth
We recently held a private event at DelecTable and the entire experience was incredible! Justin was super easy to work with and kept in touch every step of the way. The staff during the event was phenomenal and the food was outstanding as usual. We couldn’t have asked for a better venue and we can’t wait to come back! Thank you to everyone at DelecTable for such an amazing time!
… moreDevin Ganka
Very unique and fine dining experience. This 8-10 course meal is exquisite. Five star service for sure, you definitely get what you paid for. About 3 hours with each course expertly paired with a cocktail, mocktail or wine that is then explained during each course. Love the fact that they have a whole mocktail menu that directly replicates the normal cocktails to make us feel included. I brought my 13 year old sister with me and didn’t want to drink with her with me. It was nice she was able to enjoy it just as much as everyone else. With that being said, she is 13 and her palate was definitely not enhanced enough for this meal. Very unique, delicious and sophisticated flavors. I really loved the blindfold course, leaving you discover what’s on your plate through your other senses. I loved almost every thing and plan on coming back.
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