Crescendo Espresso Bar + Music Cafe

Address:	1859 Monroe St, Madison, WI 53711, USA
Phone:	+1 608-284-7908
Site:	crescendomadison.com
Rating:	4.6
Working:	6:30AM–8PM 6:30AM–8PM 6:30AM–8PM 6:30AM–8PM 6:30AM–8PM 6:30AM–8PM 7AM–5PM

Location

Photos 99

Reviews 34

Steve Wagner

This is the first time Ive been to Crescendo since it changed ownership a few months ago. Theyre now using beans from Anodyne and making pour-overs in addition to the usual espresso and other drinks. My barista was a little nervous, as hes still getting used to the whole pour-over thing, but he did an fine job and produced an excellent cup of coffee. This will now be by go-to cafe for coffee when Im in the area, as not that many other places are doing pour-overs...yet. Id also point out that the new decor is a vast improvement. No more brown and pink color scheme, which was always just a little too vomit-inducing, for some reason.

Scott Chazan

My wife and I went to see some live music tonight and after paying 10 dollars each to get in and buying coffees etc. were told that we couldnt talk inside and were treated very rudely by a hairy man behind the bar. The sound system was not adequate for the venue. If you can avoid this place do so. Absolutely unreasonable expectations of the patrons to not speak to eachother. Glad we left immediately and will never come back. Scott and Amy Chazan of Stoughton

Diana Goodavage

I like Crescendo very much. A relative lives close by. We have coffee here frequently. The staff is kind and warm-hearted. I dont think the coffee is the best. It has a little bit of a chalky, "scorched" taste, consistently. Also, the quarters are a little cramped for a "plus-size" person like me. I have problems with my knees, and its very difficult getting around, to go to the ladies room, etc. Even despite those two things, though, I still like it here.

Alexander Herrera

Love this place. First coffee I have here is great. Youll have to wait for me to commment on the consistency of its greatness. This place doesnt play loud music like Alterra and Barriques which makes a huge difference. There is a nice point system that is handled electronically and no reciept since it is sent via e-mail or txt. Im a professional student and this place is a haven. Only wish, that this place was open until midnight.

Elias Berg

Came here for the first time ever today and immediately loved the atmosphere. It has the city feel outside being on Monroe Street and has good music playing on the inside with plenty of places to sit. The menu was simple and easy to navigate. Would definitely recommend this place if youre looking for new coffee places to try or a nice place to sit down and do work.

Billy Sanders

We were looking for a place for breakfast/brunch and this place did not disappoint. Food was fabulous (I had the Chilaquiles) others in the party had the specials of the day -- all excellent! The place is busy and there isnt table service (you order at the counter). But I would definitely eat there again!

Angela Harris

she suggested this location for breakfast. She did warn us of the popularity of the place, so we came expecting a line. We definitely got a line. There were about 30 people in line outside waiting to get in as the restaurant is small.

Hidden-In Plane-Sight

OMG this place literally has the best cold brew coffee Ive ever experienced. Thats right their cold brew doesnt just taste good, you have a religious like experience when drinking it. Well Played Crescendo, Well Played!

Jared Markiewicz

There are other places doing Nitro cold brew coffee in town. But NO ONE has nitro cold brew like Crescendo! If you are craving a cold coffee on a hot day, go out of your way to stop at Crescendo. Totally worth it

Harald Kliems

My favorite coffee shop in Madison. The quality of the pour-over coffee is exceptional, the pricing is fair, and the shop has a warm atmosphere. Opens earlier than most shops. Relatively few outlets available.

mykal jensen

Delicious coffee and a really comfortable environment. The staff is cordial and I like the after 5pm drink options (beer and wine). Plus, story slams and live music!

Nick Giffin

I stopped here recently for coffee and lunch and liked it. The staff was happy to chat a bit while I got my food, and the space was open and welcoming.

Muhammad Khalifa

One of only two places I know of in Madison to serve Anodyne coffee. Great service from people who love both great coffee and great music.

David Giroux

Good music, local beer, intimate setting, and breakfast burritos served all day long. What more do you need?

Nicholas Jones

Amazing owners, great coffee, wonderful atmosphere, and regular live music. What more could you ask for?

Spencer Fricke

Great coffee and experience. Owners and staff truly care about delivering best product to the customers

Jonas Engholm

Fantastic atmosphere and incredibly happy baristas.. Makes me smile every time I walk in the door..

Joshua Przybyszewski

Great little coffee shop that often hosts live music. Friendly baristas and laid back atmosphere.