Johnson Public House

So either JPH has changed their prices, or some people haven't been there in a while, because my coffee was like $2.50.  Nothing arbitrarily expensive there.

Somebody told me this place had "good noms."  I'll be honest, I had no idea what that meant.  After going there, I still don't know what it means.  I'm just not hip enough, I guess.

Large space, good coffee, a fine place to show up and engage in tabletop RPG battles of your choice.

Very good re-creation of this cafe/storefront. Great for writing a paper. Love the idea of being able to sit and drink coffee for a couple hours, and when it gets into the evening being able to switch over to beer.

Sandwiches are in the range of good-for-a-cafe. The roast beef sandwich is always very close to good, but usually has too many onions and not quite enough meat for the price. The tuna melt is very good, and has a strong lemon note that's just delightful. Coffee is quite expensive but always on the syrupy side (a high complement) and never bitter. They do great coffee here, and you'll pay to enjoy it.

My one complaint is that this place gets packed around the bar with local hipsters who try to turn the JPH into a catwalk. I come here to work or meet colleagues; being crowded and then scrutinized isn't on my list. On the flip side of this same observation it's a testament to the able owners and staff that locals feel comfortable and casual here, and continue to return.

Another few years and this will be known as a "must-visit" Madison location.

One last point: for the love of god stop playing Mumford and Sons and Kings of Leon on repeat. Hire a curator to pick out some good jazz, classical, and independent music.

Love this place. They definitely know coffee. They serve some of the best coffee in Madison - and do so consistently! Made with care each and every time. The chai is pretty good, too. Nice staff and great music choices.