If a name like Tom’s Burned Down Cafe doesn’t get your attention, you must have lived a pretty interesting life. But you haven’t seen unique bars in Wisconsin until you’ve seen, arguably, one of the best dive bars in Wisconsin: Tom’s Burned Down Cafe.
Whether you’re on an adventure to seek out the best bars in Wisconsin or you’re heading to Madeline Island to camp at Big Bay State Park, when you’re on the Island, you gotta take a pit stop at the wondrous eclectic castle that is Tom’s Burned Down Cafe. I promise you’ve never seen anything like it; it’s the poster child of one-of-a-kind dive bar experiences in Wisconsin.
Grab a drink with your friends or chat it up with the down-to-earth locals while you pet a dog, and gather around stories and memories in the making surrounded by old treasures and Island time.
Everyone is welcome at Tom’s Burned Down Cafe, and you may even find your new happy place!
What to Expect at Tom’s Burned Down Cafe
Get your cash ready! If you’re searching for a unique experience while you’re on Lake Superior, then this place will make your adventurous heart sing. As you walk up to Tom’s, you’re already feeling this relaxed energy from being on Madeline Island, but when you start to see the humongous canvas tent and the eclectic decor greeting you and leading you inside the bar, it’s truly unlike anything else you’ll experience.
The mixture of music over the speakers, clinking glasses, and a collection of floating voices from the patrons makes for a stellar ambiance while you’re soaking in one of the most unique bars in Wisconsin. There are non-alcoholic options as well as alcoholic drinks, but of course, if you’re craving some chips/pretzels, just ask the friendly bartender! At this establishment there is currently no food being served, but there are bags of snacks available to purchase.
Seating is scattered around the bar; as you walk in, there are seats along the side by their Merch Shirts, and there are tables and chairs set up around the entire bar, wrapping around toward the back as well. If you’re checking this place out while the sun is still up, you may even be able to find some nice outdoor seating. I encourage you to take your time looking around at all of the amazing decor, thought-provoking and equally hilarious signs, and even floor decor that are plastered all around this eccentric bars on Madeline Island.
Like much of the Island, this is a pet-friendly establishment. While you’re mingling or people-watching, you’re very likely to see a pup or two taking in the local scene as well. What more could you ask for, honestly? A one-of-a-kind atmosphere, awesome service, a local experience, dogs, drinks, snacks, and all on Lake Superior’s largest Island?! It doesn’t get much better than that!
While my Husband and I were here, we snagged a cute table for two on their makeshift stage where usually live music would be played. But since there wasn’t any entertainment scheduled for that night, we got one of the coolest seats in the house! Or, shall I say, tent.
One of our favorite things to do together while we’re dawdling on our adventures is to explore local gems, order some good food/drinks, and play Rummy together. And Tom’s Burned Down Cafe was a magnificent spot for our well-worn cards and happy-camper souls to take a load off!
We loved hanging out at Tom’s because it feels like the equivalent of the coolest treehouse around. The wonderlike atmosphere of being on an Island while at the same time being immersed in this experience of what feels like a makeshift place but actually has so much intention and heart poured into it is truly outstanding. Everyone who’s at Tom’s Burned Down Cafe is there to take a pause from life’s busy and demanding schedule to sit down, enjoy a drink, and slow down.
Tom’s Burned Down Cafe is easily one of my all-time favorite bars I’ve ever had the pleasure of experiencing. And it’s doubled for being on the beautiful Lake Superior!
Where is Tom’s Burned Down Cafe?
Tom’s Burned Down Cafe is on Madeline Island, and conveniently it is a few blocks away from the Ferry! So, if you’re coming for a day trip to Madeline Island, it’s incredibly walk-friendly to take a tip to Tom’s Burned Down Cafe and the other awesome establishments on the Island. While you’re on Madeline Island or looking for an adventure outside of Bayfield, it’s worth the Ferry trip to check out one of the best bars in Wisconsin.
Tom’s Burned Down Cafe Address
274 Chebomnicon Rd, La Pointe, WI 54850
“I love this place!! I will make a point to stop here for drinks every time I’m on the Island, from now on. Drinks were great, funky atmosphere, and the staff had such great attitude. I could spend hours just looking at all of the cool “stuff” and reading all of the funny signs hanging all over the place. I can’t wait to go back!!”
Joeseph F ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Things to do Near Tom’s Burned Down Cafe
While you’re bumming around La Pointe on Madeline Island, there are plenty of fun and delicious exploring opportunities! After you’re done checking out Tom’s Burned Down Cafe (and have made plans to come back!), here are some other cool spots on the Island you might enjoy.
Grampa Tony’s on Madeline Island
“I’ve been coming here for years. One of the must things to do on the island!” – Tim L ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“They have a nice little playground that entertained my kiddo for about as long as most playgrounds do. There is also a ball diamond, tennis courts, and picnic shelter. They do have bathrooms.” – Wisconsin For Kids Blog
“So much more than a coffee shop. Great coffee, awesome goods!” – Ira M ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“The candles smell so good and are reasonably priced. The garden on the property is also beautiful. Definitely stop by if you are on the island…they have more than just candles, it’s also a gift shop.” – Heather A ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Bell Street Tavern, Events, and Lodging
“Had an AMAZING experience here! when all other venues on the island were closed on a Saturday morning, we saw the tavern lights on and found Michelle who welcomed us with open arms!! She didn’t skip a beat to open early just for us, and her generosity and kindness was just what our group of tired moms needed to brighten our day. Service was exceptional, the tavern was warm and cozy. Next time we’re going to rent the condo units upstairs for the full experience!! Thank you Bell Street Tavern!” – Melissa T ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
These are just a few things to do on Madeline Island; please be sure to check out the map for yourself and see what looks groovy to you!
I hope while you’re on your search for dive bars in Wisconsin and or the BEST bars in Wisconsin, you take a journey to Tom’s Burned Down Cafe because it is most certainly worth it! Be sure to follow them on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date on their future events and entertainment schedules. You never know who may be playing at Tom’s, and you can make a trip out of it!
Wherever your travels take you, may they bring you to the darling and adventurous experiences you can only find on Lake Superior.
