Francisco's Cantina

First time at Francisco's Cantina and I have no complaints! I ordered a burrito and it was massive and reasonably priced. Got it to go right off the bat and had no trouble transporting it still safely wrapped. I went with a group and all the food looked very good! I don't care much for Mexican food, but this was really very good. Highly recommended!

The food here is awesome!! In my opinion this is the place with the best Mexican food in town!! The owner is super friendly and will accommodate for anything that you ask him for!! If you are downtown you need to stop by for some tacos or nachos or a cheese stuffed pepper, you won't be disappointed!!

Francisco's Cantina is my go-to restaurant in Madison. I've been there 15-20 times now. The value, quality of food and authenticity are all top notch. Tamales are just $2 and their homemade mole is the best I've ever tried, it's chocolatey and peppery. Homemade chips and salsas are complimentary and very good. The tacos are very authentic with cilantro, onions and corn tortillas and only $1.75 each - a huge bargain considering places like Diego's charge $4.00 a taco. $2 spotted cows are also a permanent installment making this place extremely approachable for anyone visiting Wisconsin. After trying almost everything on the menu, I've had only good experiences. The only exception to this was the ceviche. The service is extremely friendly unless the place is full, then it's typical that they are understaffed - when this happens, service takes longer than I'd like. I've noticed that the quality of the food is noticeably better when they are not busy as well. Although, even at their worst, it's miles ahead of other Mexican places around here. I can't recommend this place enough. If it's your first time, the steak alambre and a single mole chicken tamale are some of their strongest items. I love Franciscos!!!

The hardest adjustment for me about the Midwest has been the lack of good Mexican food. I am from Los Angeles and am used to amazing Mexican food and Francisco's Cantina would feel right at home down in So Cal. You can tell as soon as they bring you their salsa and chips that this place is serious about their food; vibrant and fresh. Priced just right as it should be, great atmosphere and the owner is super chill. The only bad thing I can think of about the place is that I probably won't be able to eat at the other Mexican joints in Madison after being here.

Simply the best Mexican food I have had in Madison. A friend and I visit Francisco's after hitting the bars, and the service is first rate. There is always great people watching here, especially with the folks pouring out of Argus and Maduro at bar time. I have had their burritos, which were sizable portions and delicious, but my favorite dish here is the Alambre, a dish that few restaurants do well. At Francisco's, you get a sizable portion of grilled chicken with melted cheese, peppers, rice, beans, and some tortillas. It is the perfect end to a night of indulgence, and it won't break the bank.