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This No-Frills Restaurant In Wisconsin Has The Best Homemade Donuts In The Midwest


Imagine a place where brunch isn’t just a meal, but a way of life.

Welcome to Madison’s Bassett Street Brunch Club, where donuts reign supreme and breakfast dreams come true.

Welcome to brunch paradise! Bassett Street Brunch Club's inviting exterior promises a feast for the senses and a cure for any case of the Mondays.Welcome to brunch paradise! Bassett Street Brunch Club's inviting exterior promises a feast for the senses and a cure for any case of the Mondays.
Welcome to brunch paradise! Bassett Street Brunch Club’s inviting exterior promises a feast for the senses and a cure for any case of the Mondays. Photo credit: Brenda McDade

Now, I know what you’re thinking.

“Another brunch place? Haven’t we seen it all?”

Oh, my sweet summer child, prepare to have your mind blown and your expectations shattered like a dropped mimosa glass.

Step into a retro-modern wonderland where the coffee's always hot and the conversation's always buzzing. It's like "Mad Men" meets "Friends" – with better food!Step into a retro-modern wonderland where the coffee's always hot and the conversation's always buzzing. It's like "Mad Men" meets "Friends" – with better food!
Step into a retro-modern wonderland where the coffee’s always hot and the conversation’s always buzzing. It’s like “Mad Men” meets “Friends” – with better food! Photo credit: Bassett Street Brunch Club

Bassett Street Brunch Club isn’t just another spot to nurse your hangover with some eggs and bacon.

It’s a veritable wonderland of morning delights, a place where the donuts are so good, you’ll want to propose marriage to them.

As you approach the Brunch Club, you might be fooled by its unassuming exterior.

Nestled in a modern building with large windows and a simple sign, it doesn’t scream “BEST BRUNCH EVER” from the rooftops.

Decisions, decisions! This menu is like a choose-your-own-adventure book, but every ending is delicious. Pro tip: Order one of everything.Decisions, decisions! This menu is like a choose-your-own-adventure book, but every ending is delicious. Pro tip: Order one of everything.
Decisions, decisions! This menu is like a choose-your-own-adventure book, but every ending is delicious. Pro tip: Order one of everything. Photo credit: Kathryn A.

But that’s part of its charm, my friends.

It’s like finding a golden ticket in your Wonka bar, except instead of a creepy chocolate factory, you get the best darn brunch in the Midwest.

Step inside, and you’re immediately enveloped in an atmosphere that’s part retro diner, part modern bistro, and all awesome.

The interior is a feast for the eyes, with its sleek bar, cozy booths, and pops of color that’ll wake you up faster than a triple shot espresso.

But let’s be real – you’re not here for the decor.

You’re here for the food.

Holy hole-y delights! These donuts aren't just dessert, they're works of art. That little robot? He's the official taste-tester (and my new best friend).Holy hole-y delights! These donuts aren't just dessert, they're works of art. That little robot? He's the official taste-tester (and my new best friend).
Holy hole-y delights! These donuts aren’t just dessert, they’re works of art. That little robot? He’s the official taste-tester (and my new best friend). Photo credit: Bassett Street Brunch Club

And oh boy, are you in for a treat.

Let’s start with the star of the show: the donuts.

These aren’t your run-of-the-mill, mass-produced sugar bombs.

No, sir.

These are handcrafted pieces of edible art, made fresh daily with more love than your grandma’s hugs.

Each donut is a flavor adventure, a journey into the unknown (if the unknown was delicious and covered in frosting).

Horchata latte: Where cinnamon dreams and caffeine wishes come true. It's like a hug for your taste buds – and who couldn't use more of those?Horchata latte: Where cinnamon dreams and caffeine wishes come true. It's like a hug for your taste buds – and who couldn't use more of those?
Horchata latte: Where cinnamon dreams and caffeine wishes come true. It’s like a hug for your taste buds – and who couldn’t use more of those? Photo credit: Ashleigh C.

From classic glazed to wild and wacky combinations, these donuts are so good, you’ll want to build a shrine to them in your living room.

But wait, there’s more!

The Brunch Club isn’t a one-trick pony.

Oh no, they’ve got a full menu that’ll make your head spin faster than that time you tried to do the Macarena after too many mimosas.

Speaking of mimosas, let’s talk about their drink menu for a hot second.

French toast that puts the "ooh la la" in brunch. Topped with fresh berries and a dollop of heaven, it's the breakfast of champions (and very happy food critics).French toast that puts the "ooh la la" in brunch. Topped with fresh berries and a dollop of heaven, it's the breakfast of champions (and very happy food critics).
French toast that puts the “ooh la la” in brunch. Topped with fresh berries and a dollop of heaven, it’s the breakfast of champions (and very happy food critics). Photo credit: Nessa D.

Their Wake Up Calls section is like a greatest hits album of morning cocktails.

You’ve got your classics like the Mimosa and Bloody Mary, but then they throw you a curveball with concoctions like the Boozy Smoothie – a blend of vodka, house-made Kahlua mix, and cold brew that’ll put hair on your chest and a spring in your step.

Now, let’s dive into the main event: the food.

Prepare yourself for a menu so mouthwatering, you might just drool on it.

Bacon on a donut? It's not just breakfast anymore, it's a flavor revolution! Your taste buds will thank you for this sweet and savory masterpiece.Bacon on a donut? It's not just breakfast anymore, it's a flavor revolution! Your taste buds will thank you for this sweet and savory masterpiece.
Bacon on a donut? It’s not just breakfast anymore, it’s a flavor revolution! Your taste buds will thank you for this sweet and savory masterpiece. Photo credit: Ken A.

First up, we’ve got the Brunch Club Classics section.

This is where you’ll find your tried-and-true favorites, but with a twist that’ll make you question everything you thought you knew about breakfast.

Take the BC Greyhound, for example.

It’s not just grapefruit juice and vodka – oh no, they’ve gone and added fresh-squeezed grapefruit juice and a sugar and salt rim.

It’s like a party in your mouth, and everyone’s invited.

But let’s not forget about the food.

Liquid sunshine in a glass! These vibrant cocktails are like a party for your palate. Remember: It's always 5 o'clock somewhere (especially at brunch).Liquid sunshine in a glass! These vibrant cocktails are like a party for your palate. Remember: It's always 5 o'clock somewhere (especially at brunch).
Liquid sunshine in a glass! These vibrant cocktails are like a party for your palate. Remember: It’s always 5 o’clock somewhere (especially at brunch). Photo credit: Lisa M.

Oh, the food.

If you’re feeling traditional, you might go for the “Classic Breakfast” – two eggs any style, choice of meat, breakfast potatoes, and toast.

Sounds simple, right?

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Wrong.

This isn’t your average diner fare.

The eggs are cooked to perfection, the potatoes are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, and the toast?

Cozy booths, funky lights, and enough charm to make you want to move in. Is it too soon to ask if they're hiring live-in food tasters?Cozy booths, funky lights, and enough charm to make you want to move in. Is it too soon to ask if they're hiring live-in food tasters?
Cozy booths, funky lights, and enough charm to make you want to move in. Is it too soon to ask if they’re hiring live-in food tasters? Photo credit: Greg Johnson

Well, let’s just say it’s so good, you might start a petition to make “toast appreciation” a national holiday.

For those with a sweet tooth (and let’s be honest, who doesn’t have a sweet tooth at brunch?), the Cinnamon Roll Pancakes are a game-changer.

Imagine the gooey, cinnamon-y goodness of a cinnamon roll, but in pancake form.

It’s like someone took all your childhood dreams and turned them into a breakfast dish.

You might shed a tear of joy.

Don’t be embarrassed – it happens to the best of us.

Where strangers become friends over shared plates and belly laughs. It's like a real-life sitcom, but with better lighting and tastier props.Where strangers become friends over shared plates and belly laughs. It's like a real-life sitcom, but with better lighting and tastier props.
Where strangers become friends over shared plates and belly laughs. It’s like a real-life sitcom, but with better lighting and tastier props. Photo credit: Nathan Petersen

But wait, there’s more!

Let’s talk about their savory options.

The Chicken and Waffle dish is a masterpiece that would make even the most discerning Southern grandma nod in approval.

Crispy fried chicken perched atop a fluffy waffle, drizzled with maple syrup and hot sauce.

It’s a flavor combination so perfect, it’ll make you wonder why you ever ate chicken and waffles separately.

Bar none, this is where the magic happens. From craft cocktails to local brews, it's a liquid buffet that would make even James Bond jealous.Bar none, this is where the magic happens. From craft cocktails to local brews, it's a liquid buffet that would make even James Bond jealous.
Bar none, this is where the magic happens. From craft cocktails to local brews, it’s a liquid buffet that would make even James Bond jealous. Photo credit: Carrie Mcdonald

For the health-conscious among us (who are you, and how did you end up at a brunch place?), fear not!

The Brunch Club has got you covered with options like the Veggie Hash – a medley of roasted vegetables, topped with two eggs and served with toast.

It’s so good, you’ll forget you’re eating vegetables.

You might even start to crave kale.

Al fresco dining with a side of people-watching. It's like your own personal stage show, but the popcorn is replaced with gourmet brunch fare.Al fresco dining with a side of people-watching. It's like your own personal stage show, but the popcorn is replaced with gourmet brunch fare.
Al fresco dining with a side of people-watching. It’s like your own personal stage show, but the popcorn is replaced with gourmet brunch fare. Photo credit: Greg Johnson

Now, I know what you’re thinking.

“This all sounds amazing, but what about the atmosphere?”

Well, my friends, prepare to be charmed.

The Brunch Club isn’t just a place to eat – it’s a vibe.

The staff is friendlier than a golden retriever at a dog park, and they’re always ready with a recommendation or a witty quip.

Stack attack! These pancakes are so fluffy, they might float away if it weren't for that delicious strawberry anchor. Syrup is optional, but highly recommended.Stack attack! These pancakes are so fluffy, they might float away if it weren't for that delicious strawberry anchor. Syrup is optional, but highly recommended.
Stack attack! These pancakes are so fluffy, they might float away if it weren’t for that delicious strawberry anchor. Syrup is optional, but highly recommended. Photo credit: Mary W.

It’s like being served by your funniest friend, except they bring you food instead of just eating all your snacks.

The clientele is a mix of locals and tourists, students and professionals, all united in their quest for the perfect brunch.

You might see a group of friends rehashing last night’s adventures over a plate of “Hangover Hash,” or a couple on their first date, awkwardly trying to eat a donut without getting frosting on their nose.

But here’s the real kicker – the Brunch Club isn’t just about the food and drinks.

This isn't just a burger, it's a work of art. Move over, Mona Lisa – there's a new masterpiece in town, and it comes with a side of crispy fries.This isn't just a burger, it's a work of art. Move over, Mona Lisa – there's a new masterpiece in town, and it comes with a side of crispy fries.
This isn’t just a burger, it’s a work of art. Move over, Mona Lisa – there’s a new masterpiece in town, and it comes with a side of crispy fries. Photo credit: George W.

It’s about the experience.

It’s about starting your day off right, surrounded by good vibes and even better eats.

It’s about treating yourself to something special, because hey, you deserve it.

Now, I know what you’re thinking.

“This sounds too good to be true. What’s the catch?”

Well, my skeptical friend, the only catch is that you might become addicted.

You might find yourself dreaming of those donuts, waking up in a cold sweat craving their “BC Lemon Drop” cocktail.

Death by chocolate? Sign me up! This cake is so rich and decadent, it should come with its own warning label (and maybe a defibrillator).Death by chocolate? Sign me up! This cake is so rich and decadent, it should come with its own warning label (and maybe a defibrillator).
Death by chocolate? Sign me up! This cake is so rich and decadent, it should come with its own warning label (and maybe a defibrillator). Photo credit: Ariel W.

You might start planning your weekends around brunch, much to the chagrin of your friends who don’t understand your newfound obsession.

But trust me, it’s worth it.

Because once you’ve experienced the Bassett Street Brunch Club, regular breakfast just won’t cut it anymore.

You’ll be ruined for all other brunches.

But in the best possible way.

So, what are you waiting for?

Get yourself to Madison, Wisconsin, and prepare for a brunch experience that’ll knock your socks off.

Just remember to come hungry, bring your sense of humor, and maybe wear your stretchy pants.

For more information about this brunch paradise, check out Bassett Street Brunch Club’s website and Facebook page.

And if you’re worried about getting lost on your way to donut nirvana, use this map to guide you to the promised land of breakfast delights.

16. bassett street brunch club map16. bassett street brunch club map

Where: 444 W Johnson St, Madison, WI 53703

Your taste buds will thank you, your Instagram followers will envy you, and your stomach will forever be grateful.

Brunch on, my friends.

Brunch on.





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