★ 4

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★ 5

To say this restaurant is amazing would be an understatement. It consistently produces amazing cuisine. The service is attentive and considerate of your requests. It can be a little loud sometimes but that never ditracts from the countryside bistro fare. The bar menu is a delight as well. I am never disappointed when I dine. Sorry no pictures with this review as it wouldn't due it any justice. Also it would be an insult to other diners enjoying themselves. Clean well lit and diverse.

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★ 4

I've eaten here a few times over the years. The food is always somewhere between good and very good. The fish dishes tend to be the best. I ordered the roasted chicken on my last visit and was a bit underwhelmed. The French fries are some of the best I've ever eaten. The drinks are also always very good.

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★ 5

Best meal in Madison by far. I had the wood-grilled pork chops while my wife had chicken paillard. We both loved it along with the cheesecake for desert.

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★ 5

Have to say a big thank you to the host and gm today. I “thought” I had reservations for 1pm for 4 of us. Apparently I never followed through. But as busy as the restaurant was they figured out how to get us seated within minutes. Amazing. Food was amazing too. Thank you

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★ 5

Had a nice brunch and the French toast was really good. I got the brunch special that day and the French toast was a recommendation. The restaurant is right next to a lake so it is a nice view if you sit outside.

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★ 5

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★ 5

Excellent

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★ 5

Favorite brunch spot in madison!

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★ 5

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★ 5

Amazing night! We had Debbie as our server and she was absolutely amazing. So detailed and attractive! WOW i always love a Friday night at Sardine after a long week.

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★ 5

Really enjoyed the entire dinner. Service was exceptional. Food quality and presentation was great.

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★ 5

Amazing food!Excellent service!

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★ 5

So the restaurant is nicely laid out. There’s a large bar area with counter seating and the stand is set back beyond the first few table (confused me when i first walked in). It’s got a really nice bar counter where you can sit and the main restaurant kinda has three areas. A outdoor terrace over the water, the bar area where you can also sit at some high tops and see the oyster bar /kitchen too, and then a larger seating area with another raised part towards the back. I sat at this bit toward the back which is nice it’s raised cos actually you can look down and still see the water. And you don’t see the car park. Once it’s dark the lake is also pretty dark so sunset is your time if you want the view but the inside is really nice.

Our area was also really easy to talk despite the restaurant being full it was easy to hear.

The service was amazing. Very friendly and relaxed.

I though the food was a little expensive at first sight given the local area is a little below chicago city pricing overall ($36 for two scallops for example) but I’d say the quality justifies the price here, and a lot of things are actually very nicely priced for us city folks. Like a $13 cocktail is nothing to sniff at, especially when their alcohol selection both in cocktails, non alcoholic and wine was pretty outstanding. Creative and very diverse. Get yourself a nice $13 sardine cola with root beer and absinthe, and fancy $30 old fashioned. The non alcoholic amaro sour was also really amazing. Exactly what you hope for when ordering n/a cocktails. The quality and taste of the alcoholic version with perfect presentation.

Food wise there are plenty of options. I was a little worried I’d be hungry because the scallop dish was a little light for the price, but bread, 6 oysters, a small plate and entree each and it was a good meal coming in around $200 for two with a couple of cocktails. Also there is a happy hour with $1 odd oysters, $7 house wine and $6 beer (duvel 666/ kroneburg1664) until 6pm. The 666 was great.

Main courses were nicely presented and the veggie ravioli was really nice. 4 large sized ravioli and a lot of veg around it, and the duck salad was also great. Had the hazelnut chocolate dessert. It’s so melt in your mouth I’d be sure not to miss that. It’s hard to find not sickly rich decadent desserts that melt in the mouth. It’s a great restaurant and you can also easily walk a little by the river if you want to, or walk from the city easily if you want to. Great for a special occasion, which this was hence a little light on the photos here!

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★ 5

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★ 5

Excellent French food here in Madison, always busy, reservations recommended menu has great selection and service was excellent

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★ 5

The venue is upscale with interesting details and lots of character. Our server was attentive and friendly. There was excellent variety in the food, and everything tasted great. The drinks were strong. Prices were reasonable for what we got.

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★ 5

The food was delicious. Oysters, mussles with fries, sole. Salmon was too herby, but accompanying the heavy other dishes, it worked well. Cocktails good. Cheese plate good.

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★ 5

Absolutely Fantastic.

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★ 5

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★ 2

Food was pretty good but small portions. The service was AWFUL and it was terribly loud. I didn’t get a water for 20 minutes

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★ 5

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★ 5

PAN-SEARED FLOUNDER smashed gem potatoes, roasted carrots, overwintered spinach, capers, Meyer lemon brown butter, toasted pecans - DELICIOUS!!!!!!!!

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★ 4

Really solid and enjoyable.

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★ 5

Do not pass on Sardine. Everything was amazing.

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★ 5

For a great time,safe quality atmosphere. Frenxh flare, food & staph attire ! FUN

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★ 5

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★ 3

Had the espresso martini was really good. Didn’t try the food but looked very different. Will have to come back an try the food.

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★ 5

Fabulous experience at Sardine - almost everything tasted fresh and well-executed. House salad and pork chop were excellent. We also had the duck dish; I thought the mashed potatoes were a tad too salty and duck would have fared better if less cooked (perhaps a medium rare rather than medium). Extensive drinks list and attentive service too. Overall, a wonderful time and possibly the best restaurant in Madison!

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★ 5

Wonderful brunch at Sardine’s. Crab, bacon, lardons, and shrimp cakes were unbelievably delicious, composed of adobo beurre blanc, two eggs any style, mixed greens, parsley, and pickled red onion salad. Service by Sam was first rate. Highly recommended!

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★ 5

Classic French spot for brunch or dinner. Best oysters and best Bloody Mary in Madison. Great wine selection and lovely staff!

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★ 5

Mary Sue was a very kind and thoughtful server. She made our anniversary very special. Food was so fresh and delicious. Highly recommend the cured salmon.

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★ 5

Steak properly done, fries ok, server was inattentive, but 2 others picked up for the slacker, and made it exceptional service

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

Everything about this experience was amazing. Thank you to all the staff members for their great service. If we spent more than 20 or 30 per person its because we couldn't stop ordering more food. Everything was delicious!

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★ 5

Fantastic!

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★ 4

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

Lived in Madison for a long time but have never been to Sardine. I’m sad I waited that long. Brunch was amazing, service was wonderful; loved the atmosphere. PEI oysters were phenomenal, and ice cold. Creamed egg dish was so good, eggs were a little overcooked and I’m sure they would have remedied it for me but didn’t wanna bother and scraped the plate clean regardless. Sorbet and pot de cremé also delicious. Bellini was standard and good. American coffee was a pleasant surprise and best I’ve had anywhere in Madison. Will definitely be back for brunch and hoping to try dinner and happy hour as well.

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★ 4

Delicious selection of impeccably crafted french food . If I lived here I would try so many things. The sablefish and pork chop were delicious.

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★ 5

Best food in Madison! I'd give them 10 stars if they'd let me. The beet salad was especially divine. Excellent service, lovely atmosphere.

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★ 5

The food and service was absolutely amazing, and the lake view is beautiful!

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

Best place for oysters! Everything thing on their menu is to die for! Cocktails are out of this world!

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★ 5

Never had a bad meal here. Always had excellent food actually 😋

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 4

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★ 4

Everything was absolutely delicious, as always. My favorite brunch spot in Madison when I have out of town friends visiting. Jenna, our waitress, was outstanding—she went above and beyond, bringing such warmth and joyful energy to our table.

The only downside recently was the seating experience, which felt confusing and a bit disappointing. When making the reservation, I had specifically requested a window table. Upon arriving at 9:04 a.m., the hostess declined our request, even though two window tables were open at the time, explaining they were being held for a larger party. However, about 20 minutes later, one of those tables was given to a couple. When I asked about it, the hostess said she needed to seat them there since all other inside tables had filled up, despite initially telling us those seats were reserved for a larger group.

While the food and service from Jenna were excellent, the handling of the seating request from the restaurant reservation could have been clearer and more consistent.

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★ 4

Nice variety of dishes, wine, and appetizers to pick from. Some aspects of service were really slow, like getting a glass of wine, and other aspects were too rushed resulting in having my app, main, and salad all on the table at the same time. However the staff were very nice and I enjoyed my experience overall

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★ 5

We had the most fantastic experience here last night!! There were no reservations available for the times that we wanted so we winged it and went in hoping for a seat at the bar. Carlin helped us right away and got us a couple of glasses of wine while we waited and let us know which seats would be opening up and kept an eye on them for us. We moved to the open seats as soon as another couple finished and left.
The restaurant is beautifully decorated and from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. it was very busy and lively but not crazy or overly loud. Cocktail list is creative and impressive. We had oysters, mussels, salted beets, steak frites and the hazelnut dessert with a latte and Irish coffee. Manhattan and sidecar from the cocktail menu for both delicious and the armagnac selection was stellar. Everything was spectacular!
Can't say enough about The level of attention and professionalism that Carlin provided... Friendly, knowledgeable and professional. He took such good care of us ... Sardine is lucky to have him on staff. The two female bartenders working were also wonderful.
We will be back!!

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★ 5

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★ 1

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★ 5

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★ 5

I arrived here for business from San Francisco, and an Uber driver told me about this place. It has an upscale vibe, with a somewhat limited menu. But what it has is good, I especially liked the oysters, which are on the happy hour menu. I also really enjoyed their salmon dish. I found myself sitting in the bar area a lot because I'm here alone. I just wish they had a TV at the bar so you could watch games. Instead, you're left kind of staring around at nothing. I guess they expect you to always be accompanied.

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★ 5

This place is a VIBE! My only regret was not being able to order every single item on the menu! Our family of 3 (including a 10 year old) enjoyed ourselves so much during our weekend trip to Madison. We will definitely come back! Food was amazing - we had oysters, chicken liver toasts, mussels and the sable fish. All 10 out of 10! The cocktails were great too. I absolutely loved the building, decor, lighting, everything was top notch…it felt like we were in Seattle 🐟 🦪🍸

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★ 5

Fantastic bistro, went for brunch for first visit. Cocktails were great, especially the Greyhound with fresh grapefruit. Pastries were better than any bakery within miles of where I live.

I didn't like the Belgian Waffle - it was very thin, flavorless, and soggy due to the compote. But the eggs were cooked perfectly and the sausage very good.

Still giving 5 stars because most of the food was so much better than most other places. And because they're the most disability-friendly restaurant I've ever been to in my life. They seated my table in a quieter area in the back due to being hearing impaired.

Will definitely be going back for both brunch and dinner.

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★ 4

This was a wonderful place overlooking the water. The food was inconsistent. I had the special a striped bass, I would say it was ok. My dinner mates had the ravioli and the whitefish and loved it. We had oysters which were good. The noise level in the restaurant was quite loud and made it difficult to hear each other

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★ 5

I’ve been going to Sardine for years and it is a favorite of mine but I felt compelled to leave a review after our amazing service experience with the hostess Angelina. She went above and beyond, was incredibly attentive and helpful, and made our time at Sardine lovely. Thank you Angelina!

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★ 5

Start with the beets, whitefish for your entree & complement it all with a bottle of Watermark Cabernet. You won’t be sorry!

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★ 5

Everything was amazing! Kate was our server and her choices never let us down. Great cocktails and wine menu, food was delicious! I will visit again.

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★ 4

Ever reliable, semi-contemporary, lovely atmosphere, and good service.. are the factors that keep pulling me and most people I know back to Sardine! Very well done and executed from brunches to dinners to private events. Food is reliably good/very good.. and matches the pricing. Great big bar area that still feels cozy and fun; knowledgeable staff. During summer they have outdoor seating; even with the parking lot in front it’s nice to see the lake. The interior has a more formal white table cloth dining area, as well as a more private spot to side where you can host a decent 20-25 people team dinner. They do well with organizing such events and customize the menu. I do recommend it. We live pulling up to the bar for a boozy brunch or a happy hour cocktail - has not disappointed! ... on replay!

Post pandemic - open now and fantastic as usual! Staff is incredible and welcoming after a long period of down time.

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★ 5

Absolutely wonderful french inspired seafood restaurant on the shore of lake Mennona. Well appointed restaurant hidden in the back of the historic machinery row building with amazing views of the lake from thier back patio. impecable service and unexpectedly wonderful cuisine for a reasonable price.

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★ 5

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★ 5

I went to Sardine with friends while visiting Madison for a few days. I had a short list of restaurants to try while in town and not enough days to visit them all, I'm really glad we ended up here. The food and drinks were incredibly good and the service was great. If I'm ever in town again I'll be making sure I have a reservation here.

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★ 5

Good oysters and mussels, will come back here.

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★ 4

Incredible, thorough service. We went for brunch with a last minute change in numbers and the servers were very accommodating. Great atmosphere, feels very high-end. My only reason to give it 4 instead of 5 stars is everybody at our table that had been prior said they preferred their dinner menu. I got the mushroom toast with cashew cream and an added egg. Was it good? Yes. Do I feel that other people’s meals were a little mid for the price of their plates? Also, yes. Two people at our table said that it was their 2nd brunch there, but they’d stick with giving them service at dinner time since they’ve always said it’s exceptional. I’ll definitely go back for dinner as the number of 5 ratings has to be a testament to them :) no notes on wait staff- incredible.

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

Hands down, Sardines is one of our very favorite restaurants in Madison! The ambiance, cocktails, wine list , service and the food are top notch! Everything they serve there is made of quality ingredients and beautiful presentation. The flavors are exquisite!

We had the best server we have ever had at a restaurant! Taj!! He was professional, polite, knew the menu so well, personable, and made our evening so enjoyable! Thank you Taj!!

The hostess was very kind and sweet too. Everyone there is warm and welcoming!

Can't wait to go back!!!!

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★ 5

Great food and great wait staff!

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★ 5

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★ 4

They really need to get rid of their paper tablecloth protector thing. It’s not a dining hall…

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★ 3

We live in Middleton and typically eat in some of our favorite local spots, but decided to venture downtown for a birthday dinner. We were a party of 4 that sat out on the patio, the first table by the door. Our food was amazing. Our service and overall experience was not. We sat for almost 20 minutes with nothing but water and a bread basket before a server came over to take our drink order. This was after I went inside the restaurant and let one of the hostesses know that we had not had a server come to the table. It took almost 15 minutes to get our first round of drinks delivered. We ordered our second round when the food came, but those did not arrive until three out of the four of us were done with our meal. The beer that was brought for one of our party was wrong, and the right one took another 10 minutes to bring and was not comped on the bill. Very disappointed overall. Almost 300$ bill and the slow service really ruined the visit. Would not recommend.

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★ 5

10/10 happy hour - great oysters, mussels, and fries.

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★ 1

So I went here due to a family Birthday celebration! This was on the 13th of July! We were a party of 18! I have been sitting on if I should do a review or not! Well everyone at my table loved their food! Even my daughter who is picky! But I am posting on my behalf! I told my waiter that I have a shellfish allergy he said no worries! Well guess what buddy you didn’t listen and I got super sick right away. I had to run to my truck and grab my epi pen! Cause my waiter didn’t listen to me! Now remind you we had 3 servers taking care of us! But when of your customers say they are allergic to Shellfish maybe you should pay more attention! ( do you think I want to be sick for the next few days cause you cooked my meal right next to Shellfish)

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★ 5

I made a reservation at Sardine but was not super excited about their menu. They didn't have the typical things that I would order from a French restaurant, but it had fantastic reviews and I gave it a shot. They were going to seat me at the front of the restaurant but I asked if I could get a table with a lake view as it was my birthday. I waited at the bar, had a couple of delicious cocktails, and they sat me at the next available table on the patio. Every single thing I ordered was phenomenal and I do not regret choosing to dine at Sardine. Several different staff members also came by my table to wish me a happy birthday or to check on me in general.

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★ 5

Incredible in every way! Sweet breads.

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★ 5

There are a lot of good brunch options n Madison, and this is at the top of the list. Excellent location and the fare to match. Plus, they are relatively true to their French roots. Hard to go wrong here. Always great.

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★ 5

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★ 5

Always amazing! Best place we eat when we’re in town. We had brunch and dinner here this weekend and both were great!

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★ 3

This was our second time visiting Sardine. Our first experience was for dinner, and this was our first brunch outing. We were excited to return, especially with the lovely view of Lake Monona, which adds charm to the understated exterior of the building.

Getting to the parking lot took a bit of maneuvering due to the sharp turn off the street, but looping around made it manageable. Inside, we found the host stand wasn’t located near the front entrance, which caused a bit of confusion. Clear signage or staff guidance would be helpful to steer guests toward the center of the restaurant where hosts are stationed.

We arrived at 12:00 PM and were told that the next available seating would be at 1:30 PM, even though brunch ends at 2:00 PM. We opted to sit in the bar (middle high top table). Where we were greeted with fantastic service. Our server was attentive, warm, and fun. Kudos to him for making the experience enjoyable!

The food was great but needed a bit more seasoning.

We also noticed several tables were unoccupied, and some guests seated themselves and were served promptly. Clarifying the seating process, perhaps with signs or direct communication from hosts. Could really streamline the experience and ease the uncertainty for new brunch guests.

As a final suggestion, relocating the host stand nearer the entrance and encouraging hosts to stay aware of the dining area and greet guests with a smile would enhance the welcome atmosphere. She gave the impression that we we're a bother.

Thanks again for a great meal and great waiter service. We're looking forward to future!

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★ 5

Went here for our anniversary and had an incredible time! We were sat exactly at our reservation time with a view of the water. Our waiter was extremely kind and always checked in to make sure everything was going well. The food was delicious, we started with the appetizer special and were blown away. Had the Madison sourdough bread as an app as well and we ate the entire basket!
The whitefish and steak were amazing, both very soft and flavorful. Will definitely be back.

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★ 5

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★ 5

Great food, service and view of the lake! Seat at the bar for a bit and the tenders are artisans! Highly recommend

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★ 5

We had a fantastic dinner here. The space was so well cared for and filled with super friendly staff. We felt truly taken care of. The food was obviously also amazing. I'm a sucker for a bread basket and this one does not disappoint. All the seafood looked amazing but I just had to try the burger. No regrets.

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★ 4

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★ 5

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★ 5

If you’re looking for a place to enjoy fresh oysters and delicious seafood, this is a great spot to try. The atmosphere is casual and relaxed, making it perfect for a laid-back meal with friends or family. They also offer a wide selection of drinks, which you can enjoy while taking in the beautiful lake view. It’s definitely worth a visit if you want to savor good food and a nice view at the same time.

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★ 5

We had a delicious meal here and we enjoyed sitting on the patio on a beautiful summer night. The food was delicious and I really enjoyed a refreshing drink of ginger, grapefruit and lemon juice and honey. The hostess was quick to get us a table when we arrived 15 minutes ahead of our reservation. If we lived in Madison, we would regularly dine here.

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★ 4

Only there for an after-dinner drink.

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

We went for dinner. Nice outside porch. Food was good. Waitress was very serious. All and all good experience.

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★ 5

Delish food with great views!

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★ 3

My wife and I celebrated our 19th anniversary dinner at Sardine recently. We truly enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere! Due to happy hour restrictions, we were seated at a high-top table with stools. While this gave us an exciting kitchen view – watching the cooks work was a highlight – the stools were backless and became quite uncomfortable over time.

We started with 6 Pink Moon oysters ($13.50) – delicious, though a bit small. We ordered another round, but the kitchen substituted Summer Love oysters ($13.50). We preferred the Summer Loves; they were creamier and meatier. We also shared the Chicken Liver Toast ($13.00) and Fried Anchovies ($15.00), both excellent with our drinks (St. Bernardus ABT 12 ($10.00) and a Bloody Mary ($11.00)).

For my main, the Sardine Burger ($20.00) was good but not exceptional. The ciabatta bun overwhelmed the tasty gorgonzola and caramelized onion jam – a lighter bun would improve it significantly. My wife ordered the trout special ($32.00), which was unfortunately the biggest letdown. Compared to a whole rainbow trout dish at a similar nearby restaurant (same price!), this was a tiny, sparse portion. The texture was oddly spongy, and it lacked the expected pan-roasted flavor. For a restaurant that emphasizes its seafood, the trout disaster (cost, portion, and taste) was enough for us to decide not to come here again.

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★ 5

I got tuna, which was a little bit overcooked for me, but it’s still pretty good

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★ 5

Sardine may be the best brunch in Wisconsin. Excellent food, great service, and cool vibe. Never had a regretted choice here. Ask for recommendations (including sides and options). Great location.

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★ 5

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★ 5

Wonderful dinner, lovely location on the lake, delicious French-inspired food, great service. The frites were perfect!

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★ 5

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★ 5

We came around 12:45 and was seated immediately, they seemed quiet busy and we received a server who was still in training, there was some hiccups due to this but it was understandable. She did a great job for her first day and was very kind, as well as the manager.

The food here was delicious, the grits were an interesting texture that paired well with the rest of the dish. Oysters were wonderful as well and one of the members of our party said the salmon BLT was the best they’d had. The atmosphere here is amazing, they have oysters on display to make your mouth water and the view of the lake was also very pleasant.

Bathrooms are tucked away behind a short wall that you have to walk down the stairs to access near the entrance.

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★ 1

Terrible service our waitress was rude and unprofessional

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★ 5

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★ 4

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★ 5

I ate at the bar last week. Great energy here, lovely space that is comfortable and well laid out. The food and service were very good. However, I must comment on the wine prices: I travel for a living and eat out often. I also happen to love wine. But all over the country, wine prices have become a bit crazy. Sardine sells their wines for an incredibly fair price, unlike most other places. Moreover, this is a thoughtful, well curated program. Kudos to Sardine for making good wine accessible. If more restaurants did this, the wine industry would be much healthier and people would enjoy wine more often. Great spot that I will visit every time I'm in Madison.

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★ 5

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★ 3

Didn't live up to the hype for us.

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★ 3

This restaurant was over the top for us, i.e., not our cup of tea. Looks like lots of people like it, but I guess we prefer less complex, expensive fare. The ambiance was nice.
Our granddaughter chose Sardine as we were visiting and we wanted to take her to dinner.
The French onion soup listed at $19. I thought it would be a large serving, more like meal size, but I saw it served at the next table in a small pedestal bowl.
A glass of red wine $13 which was nothing to write home about.
Our granddaughter and I ordered the salmon. The fish was prepared well, but I did not care for the taste of the lentils with it or the sauce. My husband got the pork chop with mashed potatoes and spinach with a somewhat raw piece of onion. The pork chop was overdone, and the entire entrée lacked good flavor.
We got a couple of deserts, and they were very good. The service was fine, though multiple different people came to our table.
Our 21 year old granddaughter, who rarely eats out (college), shared she enjoyed the meal, although what is she going to say when her grandparents are buying?
Unfortunately, this restaurant won't be on our radar when we return to Madison.

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★ 3

My wife had a half a waffle. That's smaller than a half waffle from home (4" x 4"). With cherries. While tasty, it was a children's portion at an adult price. My wife used to enjoy the sandwiches, but the price was what you would pay for a full dinner at a normal restaurant, and it was again, rather small. Gone are the days where this place served great food at a value price.

As she left, she tried to order a chocolate croissant for me to take home. The staff couldn't figure out how to do that. She eventually gave up, drove down the street and got one from the source for less without the confusion.

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★ 4

Our favorite happy hour in Madison.

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★ 5

Every time I’m in Madison, Sardine is a non-negotiable. This place just hits. The ambience is effortlessly classy, the staff is sharp but relaxed, and the view overlooking Lake Monona adds that perfect touch of serenity.

The mussels? Unreal. The steak? Flawless. Everything—from cocktails to dessert—is a 10 out of 10. If you’re in Madison and don’t eat here, you’re doing it wrong.

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★ 5

We LOVE Sardine, and most-often go here for brunch (it's a more affordable option vs. dinner). Great food in a beautiful space, what could be better?!

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★ 4

Food and service is very good to excellent. Seared salmon dish was good but a bit too complicated for my tastes. Asparagus salad and soup excellent. Coffee ice cream meh.
Atmosphere is just too loud for good conversations. Ask for quiet table on lake side of restaurant; the street side has bad acoustics.

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★ 5

This is hands down the best brunch in Madison. We absolutely love going here for special occasions or when we just want a good bite to eat we love to sit at the bar. Everyone is so kind, best staff and the food is always so good. I highly recommend the muscles & any brunch item!

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★ 5

Our number one favorite restaurant for birthdays and anniversaries! Always the best service and food — moules and steak frites are our favorites.

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★ 5

The pan-seared flounder was really really delicious! Duck leg confit was also pretty nice!

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

Always an exceptional experience at Sardine. Food is superb, atmosphere is so good and staff is great. Drew was our waiter and he is the best! So warm, attentive and professional!

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★ 5

Beautiful views great service in an upscale restaurant.

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★ 5

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★ 5

One of my favorite French bistros du Monde. The best oysters are here. Brunch omlette breakfast is amazing. My go to place in Madison

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★ 5

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★ 5

Loved our Brunch waiter, Zeke this morning!!!!

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 2

I hesitated posting this, but I decided to do so anyway. We came here for my husband’s birthday dinner on Monday and were very disappointed. We had We came here for a special birthday dinner, and I left incredibly disappointed. It was a Monday night and the restaurant was not busy. The back half was nearly empty, and there were several other staff working. We ordered the bread appetizer, but the waitress forgot to put it in. We had to remind her. Then I noticed flies in my water glass. I asked kindly for a new one, and she forgot again. We had to remind her a second time.

I ordered the New York strip special, but a completely different dish was brought to me. After they realized the mistake, I had to sit and wait several more minutes while the rest of the table started eating. By the time my steak finally arrived, people were already halfway through their meals. And to make it worse, my steak was cold. It honestly felt like it had just been sitting in the kitchen and they had forgotten about it.

I had finished my first glass of wine and wanted to order a second, but the waitress did not come back to check on us until we were nearly done with our food. We had been here before for brunch and really enjoyed it, which makes this all the more frustrating. For a birthday dinner, the service felt careless and unprofessional.

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★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Dinner was wonderful. I had the French onion soup and the ribeye. My wife had the scallops and the skate fish for the main course. Everything was excellent. Are server was wonderful. We also had the chocolate tart and the butterscotch pudding. Both were great. But I could eat a ton more of the butterscotch. Omg good. Excellent night out.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

The atmosphere by the lake was wonderful, complemented by spectacular food and outstanding service. The homemade pasta with wild boar was particularly delicious, and the oysters were fresh and delightful. The mussels were also excellent. I highly recommend this place!

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★ 1

Upon entering the dining area, I was struck by the irony of the name of this restaurant, because I felt we were all packed in like sardines. I was seated inches from the people on the tables to my left and right, closer to them than to my friend across the table. Everyone could hear each other's conversations and it was quite loud in there. We could not see the lake. So the atmosphere just wasn't for me.

I ordered the sardine burger which was meh and lukewarm. The frites were too cold to enjoy. Both tasted like seafood. I thought the greens were great and one of the two desserts we ordered (the chocolate toffee crunch) was outstanding.

I noticed that the pastries were just sitting out, shoulder level, where everyone walks by and could easily be exposed to touching, germs, flies, drying out. That was surprising and made the pastries a hard pass.

The line for the two stall women's bathroom was also ridiculously long, which comes with being a crowded, busy restaurant. This was another reason, though, why Sardine, especially given the price, just isn't for me.

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★ 5

Absolutely phenomenal restaurant!!! Second time there and amazing each time. Suggest making a reservation. And the oysters are a must and their horseradish rocks!!!

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★ 4

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★ 5

Made a special day even BETTER

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★ 5

Food was great, service was fast. Great ambiance, you can sit out on the deck during warm days. I had the halibut and lemon tart both were excellent.

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★ 5

The atmosphere and drinks were amazing. Expect a wait especially on the weekends as they get very busy here. Approximately 10 minutes before we got served at the bar but it was well worth it. The bar was slammed and the bartenders seemed a bit stressed but as a bartender myself I understand their position. Reservations are also important. The bar food menu is more our vibe as the entrée section of the menu is quite pricey and the food was very “okay” aside from the oysters which were phenomenal! I had the steak and frites and my partner had the pan roasted halibut. We definitely enjoyed our time here and the stunningly handsome server as well. He’s very kind and answered all of our questions. Keep that guy around. 😉

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★ 2

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★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Eat house burger :) wery good

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★ 5

Fantastic bistro near downtown Madison, WI. Fantastic French inspired bistro food. Great food around the bar or sit down food.
Skating is always delicious.
The bistro hot dog is delicious(we think setting a new high water mark vs Costco who is second best) and at $13 a great value with salad fries.
Atmosphere is boisterous, always a little noisy and full of cheerful laughter. I feel good just sitting here.
Always try to pot du crème, it’s a great butter scotch dessert.
Parking is outside, and usually spaces are available.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Had brunch here a few weeks ago. Loved it and would love to go back for lunch or dinner next time I visit Madison. Had rabbit on heavenly croissant ..sauce was delicious. It came with a lovely mixed green salad and fries that were great and a side of mayo for dipping the fries. Great service. Enjoyed a cappuccino for starter and then nice strong coffee.

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★ 5

Excellent food, David was wonderful. Can’t wait to come back!!

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★ 2

I have enjoyed many great meals and experiences at Sardine over the years. That is why I chose to meet friends there on March 14, 2025. I often don’t treat myself to a nice meal out these days and was excited! I ordered the skatewing and was very disappointed. It was mostly breading, in my opinion. I had a lovely cocktail, however. I don’t recall the name but it had lavender and butterfly pea syrup and was wonderful. We finished our meal and waited almost 45” to get our plates removed. We ordered dessert and that took another 20 minutes. Our waiter seemed rushed and distracted. For the amount of money we paid I feel it was a disappointing evening, except for the company. I have always loved the atmosphere there, but in the future I will stick to the oysters and cocktails, if I return.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

What a fantastic dinner. The food was excellent, and Sam, our server, made sure we had a wonderful time. We were celebrating my wife's birthday, and he went over the top to make sure she was happy. We had a dozen Nova Scotia oysters, fried sardines, and chicken liver on toast to start. All were very good, and the portions were a good value for the price. Although they were out of the skate wing, the plan B -- Ahi tuna steak -- was excellent. The braised wild boar was served with what was obviously fresh pasta, and was perfectly seasoned and melt-in-your-mouth tender. At the end of our meal Sam brought out a sorbet with a birthday candle to top off a truly memorable experience.

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★ 5

Source: Google

★ 1

Our server was rude and not very attentive. Our foods temperature was not hot. My and my partners diet Cokes tasted like fish and the glass was dirty. I ordered the streaks and fries, my streak was not cooked how I asked it to be and it was cold.

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★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I was visiting my sister, and this was my first time here. The atmosphere struck the perfect balance between upscale and welcoming. The man at the front desk reminded me of one of those friendly concierge’s at fancy hotels. We weren’t able to get a reservation, but when we showed up, he said he’d do his best to get us a table.

I ordered the yellowfin tuna, and it was nothing short of exceptional. Perfectly seared on the outside and just slightly rare in the center. Our server, Taj M, was another highlight. He had wonderful recommendations, and I basically ordered whatever he said was good, haha. I loved everything. He was incredibly knowledgeable about the menu, and he guided us through the night with ease and made the whole experience feel personalized. Also, shoutout to the bartender, who personally chose a drink based on my mom’s request for something sour and tart, and the Jasmine he made was perfect.

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★ 5

Beautiful French restaurant on the lake shore. Super friendly and courteous staff. They were out of sardines but we tried the roasted carrots, duck confit & frisée, and mussels. The food was presented beautifully and the taste was incredible. The different textures and flavors of the roasted carrot dish were simply out of this world!

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★ 5

Ate a bunch of oysters. Had some great cocktails. It's worth popping in!

Make sure to get the mussel frites!

And the oysters!

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★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Great location and awesome food!

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★ 5

Tasty brunch options with French flair. Loved the selection on fine bakery items. Attentive service throughout. Lots of buzz in the atmosphere.

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★ 5

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★ 5

Very pleasant decor with a good view of the lake. Staff was friendly and attentive. Cocktails well constructed and served cold.

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★ 5

Good Food and Service. Cant ask for more

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★ 5

This might be the best restaurant I’ve been to in Madison. The food was exceptional and the service kind.

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★ 5

I love their brunch menu. I’ve tried different things and always exceed my expectations.

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★ 4

Source: Google

★ 5

I stumbled on Sardine while walking along the lake in Madison this month and was surprised how cool it was. Our party were in town for business, but there were lots of parties that were taking full advantage of the Sunday vibes and enjoying their food and drinks. So had a good atmosphere. We mainly had coffees, I had a Croque Madame with egg. Which was well presented and very satisfying. The oysters looked amazing as did the cocktails, i will try them next time.
Only complaint was when turned up, we asked the waiter if we could sit at an empty table, he said sure thing, then after settling in we were moved as apparently there was a waiting list, only to be then sat again in the same table 3min later. Was inconvenient but only a small issue overall.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

All around exceptional. While you do pay a pretty penny, it’s quite obviously it’s worth it! Food was incredible, drinks were phenomenal and the staff were well-I firmed about the menu and very inviting! Will definitely return!

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★ 5

Beautiful place with beautiful food. I loved the Skatewing.

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★ 5

Servers were very patient and helpful. Food was wonderful. Sunday was very crowded so it was kind of loud, guess to be expected.

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★ 3

We’ve always loved coming to Sardine. Their selection of drinks are delicious, espresso and coffee wonderful for brunch, and entrees for brunch are delicious. They prepare and serve their oysters very well! They are best for adult groups or for couples though they do try for families. It is not family-friendly, I would say (having three kids under 7), but they do accommodate. My lower service rating lately has been that my husband and kids have taken to giving me a Sunday morning “off” every month or so and I have tried sardine twice for those brunches. Service is awkward at best with a solo diner - the first time I was rushed out within about 40 min and the second time (having ordered oysters and a salad) I waited over 90min. Essentially, you’re either forgotten or pushed out. Both are common in US restaurants as a solo diner, but this restaurant espouses a French motif and as such, should consider people may want to solo dine (as much of Europe does). I want to complement the assistant manager for listening to my critiques and hope to see more education to their servers about continuing regular and consistent service to all diners, regardless of single-double-family status.

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★ 5

Sardine is *always* fantastic. It is our go-to spot for a special occasion or just a night out. Tonight, we dined and indulged with a bottle of Agrapart & Fils champagne, PEI oysters on the half shell, jumbo gulf shrimp, steak, fish, salad & French onion soup. We rounded off our meal with an absolutely heavenly pot de creme & blackberry tart. PHENOMENAL! And, our waiter was truly a joy. From brunch to lunch & dinner, I’ve never had anything other than a 5 star experience at Sardine. Bon appétit!

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★ 5

We came with two very loud kids, so we were seated in an isolated area, which was completely understandable and preferable. We definitely do not want to bother other patrons. Our waiter was a lovely man and obviously enjoyed the food he served.

I got a whole fish, and let me tell you, it melted in my mouth. The meatballs and gnocchi were cooked to perfection. The fries were crispy, adding a nice crunch to the meal. Hopefully, we can come without kids next time.

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★ 5

Went here for late afternoon snack.
Oysters were great! We were told to try the hotdog... It was amazing!

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★ 5

French onion soup, pork-laden bacon-finished lentils as a delicious side, sardines, gnocchi, swordfish, blueberry/basil/ginger sorbet! Interesting wine list

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★ 5

This place lived up to the hype. We went for a late breakfast. Baked creamed eggs slapped. I thought they were under seasoned at first. You just gotta get the first perfect bites. It's rich but balanced. We sat at the bar, and had a peak-a-boo view of the water. Coffee was incredible. Got the cardamom latte.

Only complaint was the petit mixed salad had bits of old greens. Common with pre packaged mixes, I'm just particular about the taste.

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★ 5

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★ 4

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★ 5

Great brunch. Service was excellent. All food tasted great. Thanks!

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★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Mmmmmm

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★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Love Sardine. SO good and yet so unpretentious. It's a tough needle to thread but they nail it. I've always felt welcome, and always had a great meal.

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★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

The food was absolutely delicious. Our waiter was the nicest person, he was very friendly and attentive. The atmosphere is the perfect mix of fancy and casual. Great for date nights or night out friends.

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★ 5

happy birthday to me! Great French brunch with several dishes I have never seen before. Eggs over easy were perfect, probably the best I’ve ever had cooked.

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★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Wow!! Only one word to describe the vibe and deliciousness at Sardine!! A wonderful evening catching up with my sister and 2 great friends. Andrew our server rocked it! Made the entire experience a delight. Head chef Jason didn’t disappoint with his culinary creations - 5 stars. Run, don’t walk to experience the “disco in your mouth” goodness!! You will Not be disappointed. Cheers to the entire SARDINE team for a fantastic night!! Can’t wait to come back!!

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★ 5

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★ 4

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★ 5

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★ 5

Angelina is a pro! Super accommodating and kept us in the loop the whole time we were waiting.

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★ 5

Great place, awesome service and delicious food. Beautiful, upscale rustic interior. Nice water view.

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★ 5

Sardine checks all of the boxes - wonderful staff, great food and drink, excellent vibes (a table with a lake view or on the patio is a plus). Love it for any meal but especially brunch.. we get together with friends here at least once a month for the oysters, Bloody Marys, and buzzy atmosphere.

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★ 5

Great restaurant next to the lake

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★ 5

I had the most wonderful time tonight at Sardine, and much of it was due to our waiter, Sam! He had the best suggestions for cocktails and wine, and made our experience so special. The food was delicious and I can’t stop thinking about the steak frites!

Source: Google