Are you planning a rehearsal dinner in Madison? As Madison wedding planners, we love the incredible array of restaurants and venues this city offers that suit every style and taste. Whether you’re envisioning a cozy gathering with craft cocktails or a private dining experience with chef-curated plates, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s dive into some of the top rehearsal dinner spots to celebrate with your nearest and dearest before the big day.
The Harvey House
Located behind Madison’s Historic Train Depot, The Harvey House is a celebration of Wisconsin’s iconic supper clubs with a menu that celebrates its Midwestern roots. Their private dining options provide an intimate setting for your group while still allowing everyone to soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Their menu and cocktail program is top-notch, so your guests are guaranteed to be wowed. The Harvey House offers four unique private dining spaces to host your rehearsal dinner.
Upstairs at Harvey
Take over the entire second floor at The Harvey House and enjoy your own private bar and dining room experience. Great for rehearsal dinners of 50 people or less, the Upstairs at Harvey features a blend of historical details and modern amenities that are sure to impress your guests.
The Pheasant Room
Offering a secluded dining space with a semi private experience, The Pheasant Room is perfect for guest counts of up to 20.
The Office
Looking for a private space? The Office is a completely private space at The Harvey House with a separate entrance. Featuring local art and mid-century modern decor, The Office can accommodate 30 guests for a seated dinner and up to 40 for a cocktail-style reception.
Train Car
For a totally unique rehearsal dinner experience, book the Train Car at The Harvey House. Complete with your own private space and entrance, the Train Car can accommodate guest counts up to 35.
The Edgewater
The Edgewater Hotel is a Madison icon, and it’s no surprise that its various dining spaces are popular for rehearsal dinners. We love Here are a few standout options:
The Wine Room
For wine lovers, this space is a dream. Surrounded by bottles from The Edgewater’s impressive collection, your group can enjoy a curated menu paired with fine wines. The Wine Room at The Edgewater offers a warm and stylish dining room for small groups of less than 35 people.
The Alcoves at Augie’s Tavern
Perfect for a relaxed, upscale vibe, the Alcoves at Augie’s Tavern offer a semi-private dining with cozy banquette seating. It’s perfect for rehearsal dinners with 30 guests or less.
The Chef’s Table
If you’re a foodie at heart, The Chef’s Table at The Edgewater is a must. Offering a classic private dining room experience with access to a private terrace overlooking beautiful Lake Mendota, The Chef’s Table can accomodate intimate groups of 18 guests or less.
Augie’s Table
Looking for something small and intimate? Augie’s Table at The Edgewater features spectacular views of Lake Mendota and offers a private dining experience for up to 6 guests.
Ellsworth Block
Ellsworth Block is an excellent choice for couples seeking a personalized rehearsal dinner experience. Located above The Old Fashioned in downtown Madison, this renovated historic building features exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and modern amenities. Its central location allows out-of-town guests to easily explore Madison’s nightlife after the evening wraps up.
The venue works well for both intimate sit-down dinners of up to 50 guests and cocktail-style receptions for up to 100. The sky deck, with its greenhouse-style windows, offers a unique setting for smaller dinners. Ellsworth Block also allows you to bring in your own caterer, giving you the flexibility to create a menu that fits your preferences. It’s a versatile space that accommodates a wide range of styles and needs, making it a practical and convenient option for your rehearsal dinner.
Old Sugar Distillery
For a relaxed yet distinctly Madison experience, The Rickhouse at the Old Sugar Distillery offers an inviting setting for your Wisconsin rehearsal dinner. This private event space boasts floor-to-ceiling windows, industrial-chic charm, and locally handcrafted spirits, creating a unique atmosphere that blends warehouse hipster vibes with modern flair. It’s an ideal choice for couples who appreciate craft cocktails and the flexibility to bring in their own caterer for a personalized touch. Whether you’re planning a cocktail-style event or a formal seated dinner, the space allows you to tailor the experience to your vision. With a capacity of up to 120 guests, The Rickhouse at the Old Sugar Distillery is perfect for both casual welcome drinks and elegant celebrations, providing a memorable setting for your rehearsal dinner.
Tips for Planning Your Rehearsal Dinner
- Customize your menu: We recommend choosing a menu that differs from your wedding day to give your guests a unique experience.
- Think about logistics: Since the rehearsal dinner typically takes place the night before the wedding, simplicity is key to avoiding stress. Consider hiring a wedding planner to take care of the details. As Wisconsin wedding planners, we offer rehearsal dinner planning services to ensure everything runs smoothly.
- Add personal touches: Thoughtful details, like custom cocktails, a slideshow of memories, or handwritten notes for your guests, can elevate the evening and create a truly memorable atmosphere. To add an extra layer of energy, consider incorporating live music. A talented saxophonist, such as Jonathan Hoel, can bring a sophisticated vibe to your rehearsal dinner, setting the perfect tone for the celebration.
When choosing the perfect rehearsal dinner spot, think about what vibe you want to set for your wedding weekend. Do you want something upscale and intimate, or are you looking for a casual and fun atmosphere? Consider your guest list, too. Some venues are better suited for smaller, more intimate gatherings, while others can accommodate larger groups with ease.
