"American red sauce joints have come and gone in Madison (and seem to be on the verge of a little renaissance), but Osteria Papavero has been the OG of Old World Italian for nearly 20 years. Chef-owner Francesco Mangano has an intense appreciation for seasonality, proportion, and maybe just a hint of whimsy. His wild boar pappardelle and butterscotch budino are each Madison classics, and there may be no better date night spot downtown. If you see a special you like, order it; it could be gone the next day." - Kyle Nabilcy
