Satisfying stomachs around the Madison area, Sucre is exactly what this city has been lacking. Sucre, which recently opened on Mifflin Street on the Capitol Square, claims its place in Madison as one of the only patisserie and dessert lounges in town.
Sucre (French for ?sugar,? of course) is a local specialty bakery ? though the term is loosely used ? in a space that until recently had been a McDonald?s. Known for its delectable desserts, this is the perfect classy stop after a night on the town, as they are open until 11 p.m. on weekdays and 1 a.m. on Friday and Saturday.
Upon walking inside, it is difficult not to notice the overwhelmingly stark interior with its abundance of white decor, contributing to its European modernity. On one of the walls hang four large flat-screen TVs (for the rowdy game day crowd?) above a row of two-person tables and pop art-style orange plastic chairs.
Undetectable at first, the background music blends nicely with the murmur of conversation inside. Smooth melodies float through the air just enough to fill any awkward silences and add to the general ambiance. Additionally, the employees are conversational and attentive, making sure each customer?s experience is memorable.?? ?
Although the menu may appear sparse upon first glance, the actual items are anything but. While it is possible to eat breakfast or lunch here, the reason to go to Sucre is to experience its desserts and fine wines. There is an abundance of desserts to choose from, giving even the pickiest eaters something to enjoy. The menu also conveniently places a suggested beer or wine pairing to complement each dessert. For those who prefer coffee with their sweets, Sucre serves a rich roast of Ancora coffee, complete with a sugar cube and dainty lemon twist. Espresso drinks are also available.
The Noir de Chocolat ($8) ? a rich concoction consisting of dark chocolate mousse and chocolate cremeux finished with a ganache glaze ? should be reserved for the chocolate connoisseurs because of its intensely rich flavor that lingers inside your mouth. Paired with a Young Chocolate Stout ($5), this is a dessert you will come back for.
The Pear Frangipane ($8) has a slightly less overpowering flavor, but it will suit those that enjoy simpler tastes. This dessert contains a poached Anjou pear, a butter crust and almonds.
Also, the Orange Mousse has an oddly familiar flavor, somewhat like orange sherbet. This piece ? properly called a ?piece? given its semblance of a work of fine art ? includes orange mousse, chiffon cake and that mouth-watering chocolate cremeux.
Just when you think this place could not get better, the restaurant offers special cheese variety plates and wine tastings fit for the sophisticated palate. On the back of the menu is a large list of martinis, spirits and imported beers from countries all over Europe, such as Italy, Switzerland, Austria and France.
While the prices are a bit much for the poor pockets of college students, customers pay not only for the food, but also for the experience. The desserts are more than merely food to this restaurant?s master baker, Punky Egan; they are pieces of art.
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Sucre?s hours are Monday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Friday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. It is located at 20 W. Mifflin St.
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