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Hot Lunch: Your Go-To Spot for Flavorful Sandwiches and More!

At Hot Lunch, we blend nostalgia with modern flavor to create an unforgettable dining experience. Nestled in the heart of Madison, our vibrant eatery offers a menu that features mouthwatering sandwiches, hearty soups, and delicious bar options—all with a focus on quality and creativity. With a friendly atmosphere that invites everyone in, our unique approach includes playful decor, cool vibes, and engaging service. Our commitment to inclusivity extends to vegan options and sustainable practices, ensuring everyone feels welcome. Dive into our signature dishes, like the Italian beef or the vegan banh mi, and enjoy the communal joy of good food.

Hot Lunch at a glance

  • Address 708 1/4 E Johnson St Madison, WI 53703
  • Phone (608) 405-5566
  • Restaurant type Restaurant , Bar , Takeout restaurant , Sandwich shop .
  • Popular for Popular for lunch , Popular for dinner , Good for solo dining .

Photos & Gallery

Hot Lunch: Reviews & Ratings

Rory Montreuil
5

My first time in, definitely will be back, Tito had great music and vibes about him! The hot beef sandwich was no joke, great time all around!

Andrew
4

Visited a rainy weekday for lunch as we were passing through town. Had the highest ratings and wanted to try. The service was a bit confusing at first, but you order at the bar and seat yourself without much direction to where. I can't remember the sandwich I ordered in the picture provided, but the specific cheese overpowered everything and made it bitter but wasn't bad enough to not eat. The potatoe salad was good. Lastly, my girlfriend pork belly sandwich was wonderful but was slightly burnt and kinda had that aftertaste, but it was seasoned well from the initial taste, but that slight burnt flavor lingered with it. The atmosphere was fun and engaging. Overall, I'd come back and try something else or get the pork belly. 8/10 would recommend.

Brad Miller
5

Incredible sandwiches. Found a new favorite lunch spot in town! The atmosphere is great too, will absolutely be going back.

Jack Lundeen
5

Stopped in for some sandwiches on a day trip from Milwaukee and wow I wish we had this place at home. Got some traditional (hot beef w/ giardiniara) and some not-so-traditional (turkey w/ citrus slaw and thousand island) and they were both knock out good. Super friendly and welcoming atmosphere on top. We will be back!

Gordon Cimoli
5

Fun spot with delicious sandwiches and equally fantastic cocktails on draft as well as house made soda. The atmosphere is 90s themed dive bar. It was comfortable and the staff was very nice! We had the turkey sandwich; pulled chicken sandwich and the Classic. The bread is absolutely amazing (local bakery Stalzy’s) and the flavors of each sandwich were great. Must visit!

JCup Gyll
5

This place is so rad it’s hard to describe. Tons of awesome 80-90’s memorabilia to really bring back some memories. Service is fantastic, and the sandwiches are phenomenal. Really fresh ingredients with the perfect fresh firm bread. Will be back 1000% to crush the other menu items. 10/10

Mary
5

I felt exceptionally welcomed here when I came for my first time in. I was coming for a vegetarian meal but what I got was so much more! The bartender aka guru is P-squared=pleasant and personable. The energy here is fun and contagious. It’s nostalgic and unique. You can tell it’s more than a bar/restaurant. It’s a passion project and it’s so fun! Thank you for bringing your awesome ideas to the world. We need more of them… “I’ll be bach (back)!” (Distill America ) Thank you again!

htx herbivore
4

Came here for dinner with friends and really liked the vibes! The sandwiches taste good and are reasonably priced for the portion size. The vegan banh mi was pretty decent. Overall, good service, decent food, and cool atmosphere!

Location

  • Hot Lunch
    Hot Lunch
    708 1/4 E Johnson St Madison, WI 53703 Hotline: (608) 405-5566

Welcome to Hot Lunch: your new go-to destination for sandwiches, bars, and soup in the heart of Madison, WI. Situated at 708 1/4 E Johnson St, this vibrant eatery marries deliciousness and a fun atmosphere with great service. Whether you're stopping by for takeout or dining in, Hot Lunch has molded itself into a lively hub for food lovers, catering to diverse dietary preferences, including scrumptious vegan options.

Steps inside and you’ll be embraced by a nostalgic decor that resonates with throwback vibes while punctuated by a lively playlist. The unique ordering system adds a playful touch; diners grab a menu, choose their favorite dish, and signal their order using a Pokémon card instead of a traditional number. This quirky charm enhances the already riveting experience.

Customer reviews reflect an overwhelming love for dishes like the Italian beef with Muenster cheese and the meatball sub; both are described as comforting and satisfying. Highlights also include a perfectly crafted Classic 2.0 Sandwich that has been praised for its flavor and balance. Food quality matches the fun atmosphere, ensuring that each bite is an adventure.

Let’s not forget about the excellent beverage selection that pairs beautifully with their food offerings. From the intriguing options like “this is not a sandwich” beer to their full bar, there’s something to complement every meal.

  • Convenience: Hot Lunch provides takeout, accepts various payment methods including Android Pay and Apple Pay, and even allows you to bring your own containers!
  • Accessibility: Family and dog-friendly, with gender-neutral restrooms and free Wi-Fi, this spot truly caters to everyone.
  • Culinary Creativity: While customization options are limited, the core menu is packed with inventive and hearty sandwiches that are bound to satisfy your cravings.

So if you're in Madison and looking for a place that combines good food, unique service, and an inviting vibe, look no further than Hot Lunch. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience worth sharing and revisiting. Grab a friend, dive into their delectable sandwiches, and soak in the lively atmosphere you won't want to leave!

For orders and inquiries, give them a ring at (608) 405-5566. Your next sandwich adventure awaits!

Business Information

  • Accessibility
    • Has wheelchair-accessible seating
    • Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
    • Does not have assistive hearing loop
    • Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • Wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Service options
    • Offers takeaway
    • Serves dine-in
    • Delivery
  • Payments
    • Accepts credit cards
    • Accepts debit cards
    • Accepts NFC mobile payments
    • Credit cards