Monk's Retreat the

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  Nothing like wandering around your small town to find this small hole in the wall bar thats as cozy as it can get! I started off with their special cole slaw, that is as refreshing as it is addicting. Then I tried the Reuben with Fries and I was in love. Then I finished it off with Pumpkin Pie. I'll definitely be back, and most likely a Sunday regular when its not very crowded. If you're in the area, you owe it to yourself to give it a shot.

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  Posted on 11.25.12 Curt S.

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  Quick review: went here for the fish fry and wasn't impressed.  I really liked the place for its atmosphere, value, and charm, but the fish was an ultimate disappointment, primarily because it didn't taste like fish - it had a strong charcoal/steak/hamburger/smoke flavor.  The menu didn't identify what type of fish they use; staff wasn't certain, either.  
  
  Tap selection is dismal; appetizers were great, fries were excellent, but the fish was a big miss.  For a full review, check out my website (it's in my profile).  Sorry, Monk's - I wanted to like your fish fry, but we didn't seem to make a connection tonight.

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  Posted on 09.11.10 Steve L.

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  The best fish fry and priced right!  Not many seating area so take out is another option! They have the best coleslaw I have ever had, it should be patented!

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  Posted on 05.05.10 Scott S.

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  Since leaping off the vegetarian wagon a year ago, I've made up for a lot of lost time (10 years!). I've started my quest for the perfect reuben and ate every steak that gave me a sidelong glance. But the Midwest institution of Friday Nite Fish Fry  had yet to capture my gastronomic imagination.
  
  No longer! The Monk's Retreat in Cross Plains has it! Wow, who would think that battered and deep fried cod could be so delicious?! I'm beginning to think that Madison cuisine doesn't really have that much to brag about! (Save so many SE Asian joints that they all begin to seem the same) Do yourself a favor when you're in Madison. Make the 20min drive to Cross Plains and you'll be rewarded with crispy batter, juicy and firm cod coupled with the best coleslaw I've had this side of the Mason-Dixon.
  
  Be prepared for a wait though. It gets busy and the quarters can be a little cramped. But if you're looking for a great fish fry, this would definitely be my recommendation!

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  Posted on 10.29.09 Matthew N.

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  It does not get any better than this!
  A great local bar and grill with a super staff, reasonable prices and great food.
  This is the kind of place that you call home and a place where you go to meet friends and family.
  Highly recommend the Friday Fish and, by all means, the MONK BURGER!
  Nice selection of beers and the local personalities are a hoot!

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  Posted on 08.12.09 Kevin S.

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