Alright… I went to Alimentari because it kept getting hyped as the takeout sandwich spot in Madison. So I did what any responsible adult would do: I showed up hungry and started firing off orders.

And yes… it lived up to it.

It’s a cute-ass little spot. You walk in and it’s basically: boutique grocery vibes on the left, sandwich-making chaos straight ahead, baked goods over there, and a little wine/market situation going on too. Merch as well.

Important note: there’s no seating. This is grab-and-go energy.

Which honestly makes it kind of perfect for a “pick up lunch and pretend you’re the main character at the park” date. (Wingra Park is super close.)

Alimentari describes itself as a European delicatessen / high-end Italian market.. sandwiches, fresh pasta, sauces, charcuterie & cheese, plus a market with imported goods. It’s also from the minds behind A Pig In A Fur Coat (RIP).

Also: sandwiches can sell out, so don’t roll in late and act surprised.

1) Farro salad
I’m not a salad guy. I usually see a salad and I’m like “cool, where’s the food?”
But this one got me. The butternut squash + raisins combo is weirdly very good - some bites feel earthy/healthy and other bites are like BOOM flavor.

2) Spicy Soppressata
First reaction: this thing is massive. As big as my head.

They use Madison Sourdough bread baked fresh every day, and you can immediately tell.

My sandwich had capicola, hot giardiniera spread, muenster, Tuscan greens, and mayo (per my tastebuds doing investigative journalism).

I thought the bread-to-sandwich ratio might be off because it’s thick… but nope. It’s perfect.

(For what it’s worth: some Yelp folks say the bread can be tough or a little “battle-ready.” I get it… but I loved it.)

3) Cannoli
Un. Real. That’s basically all I need to say about it.

I don’t say this lightly: Alimentari might be my favorite sandwich spot in Wisconsin right now. From the vibes to the ‘wich, it was great.

If you haven’t been, you’re doing yourself a disservice… and also your lunch is probably boring.