East Side Club

A shorter review since I was just here on a random Monday evening meeting up some co-workers who I'd never met in person before. The tiki bar didn't seem to be open, but since I was driving anyway and we had a long day of meetings the next day I didn't miss it.Since I'm coming from Illinois I had to get the requisite Spotted Cow. A fly took a swim in my colleague's beer who was really looking forward to it after a long day of travel, and they were nice enough to give her a fresh one.I also got a freshly grilled brat and some chips for just $6 which feels like a steal these days. Overall a nice place to chill with a great view of the lake and can see why it might be a popular spot for events.

For a place that calls itself a Tiki Bar it is pretty disappointing. We strolled over a week or so ago since it is one of the few places that is open during Covid given it is outdoors.The lawn and setting are great but I came for the tiki drinks. The worker I encountered really had no idea what a tiki drink is - she said they had margaritas and mojitos (not tiki drinks). I asked about a Mai Tai and she seemed clueless. She eventually remembered they had pina colada mix so that is what I had which was fine. I had only been here one other time, last August, and I recall them having a posted list of tiki drinks. Not sure where that went.On top of the lack of tiki drinks none of the staff wore masks which was rare for any type of food/drink place that I have encountered since reopening in late May.Next time I will make my own tiki drink and hang out next door at Olbrich park for the view!

Went on Thursday prior to Great Midwest Beer Fest for beer and featured band. Location is great on lake. Plenty of seats and can bring chair. The beer I came for was "on deck" so no go. No prices posted but paid $7/tap. Band was just ok but no cover. Would go back if good band.

I came to the outdoor tiki bar once it opened, and was really excited to enjoy some outdoor weather and take in the view. It quite literally feels like you're just sitting in someone's backyards. There are a few sporadic tables, and random chairs all over the place so you can just grab what you need and set up where you like in the grass. I loved the very chill, non-fancy nature of it all and it really works for any group. I started with two and our group grew to about 12, and it was an easy adjustment... just find a random chair. There were plenty of chairs. The setting and atmosphere bumped to the three star rating.As for the bar itself... less great. Somewhere between a 2 and a 3 probably. I really wanted to feel like I was at a tropical tiki bar, and since there was no menu, I told the bartender I wanted something tropical and tiki-like but not too sweet. I watched him make the drink, and there was hardly any alcohol in it whatsoever. It tasted like pure juice. I did not bother going for another drink and just enjoyed the lake view. I would not be averse to going back, but would definitely stick to non-tropical beer (although the beer menu was also very basic and underwhelming). I think they were also making burgers and such on an outdoor grill. If you're coming for the drinks, maybe head elsewhere but I still recommend the place for its casual atmosphere but beautiful views.

Hey it is what it is ! We came by boat on a hot summer day. Decent docking with plenty of space to tie up. The Tiki Bar is lake side with a lot of grassy areas to relax. Everybody was friendly and laid back! So nice.

This review is pretty much just for the outdoor area of the East Side Club. The lawn in back, the Tiki Bar, etc. What a fun place! Right on the lake - typically a bit cooler and breezier than other parts of town during the very hot months. I played in a Kubb League here for a couple summers and it was always a great setting and very accommodating for all of us. The service, be it at the inside bar or the Tiki, is always friendly and usually pretty quick. The huge lawn offers plenty of space to spread out. There are lots of tables and chairs as well so you can usually always find a comfy spot to sit. I definitely recommend checking this place out. It's great to sit and relax and watch the sun go down on the lake.

HMI, I am glad I found my favorite fried southern catfish and I don't have to wait for the once a year I see your stand at the Willy Street Fair, to get it!Went here tonight, for the first time for Friday fish. We got here early, as we didn't want to get caught up with the bar scene or live music.Setted at a table by the window, looking out onto the lake was beautiful after a long week.Host sat us with water, menus and waitress had our order in minutes, with warm dinner roll and coleslaw to follow.Both the hubs and I ordered fried catfish him with potatoes and me with okra, then we shared hush puppies. Hot, fresh, and mouth watering!We are already planning our next visit, as I was too full for dessert

Tiki bar is lackluster, but 5-stars for the heaping pile of trash pouring from the overflowing dumpsters. Worth a visit just to observe the exquisite smells normally only a landfill can provide.

I have not been to this business but I have encountered some employees and if they are the same at work as they are away from there it's got to be a great experience.

Love the location on Lake Monona.   The young men at the bar provided good and friendly service with a smile!   The Migrants' food is good.   Both the bar and food stand need more help to eliminate the long lines on a busy night.  If you want to drink and/or eat and do not enjoy spending time standing in line, go on less busy night, when the performers are not as popular.  Speaking of performers, last night, they had the always great VO-5.   Unfortunately, without an elevated stage, you could barely see them, if at all.  And, unlike other venues where I have seen them, a lot of rude people around me were talking. VO-5 are best at a venue with an elevated stage and a crowd that is there to listen and dance, not talk.Unfortunately, the ESC website mentions nothing about cover or entrance fee. https://escmadison.com/events