Alimentari — Restaurant in Madison

Just had my first Alimentari take out ever. If you read my other reviews, you'll know that I have been wildly disappointed in the trajectory that Colectivo has taken since 2020. Corporatized, union busting, skimping on generic supplies (Sycsco brand chips, etc), insane price increases that outpace inflation by nearly 100%. Oh yeah, and then they totally changed the sandwhich menu and ingredients and it's just not that good anymore. I dod have to give a shoutout tot the current staff though, they have been doing their best with a declining leadership. Anyway, back to Alimentari. I have been waiting so long for a competitor to come into the Monroe area and knock it out of the park in this segment. Alimentari have done it. I only lament that the east side had to lose it's location :( My sandwhich (prosciutto), was large, fairly priced and a true deli experience with very unique flavors that only comes from a "from scratch" mentality. Got some pasta salad on the side which was delightful, and the chips were at first a bit potent flavor wise (aged cheddar) but offered a unique pairing that you aren't gonna get from Sysco "block and barrel" brand. Keep it up Alimentari - you will crush it if you...

The atmosphere and service were great. This review will be based on the Italian beef sandwich on the menu and I may update the review when I get the chance to get a cold cut.

I walked in and ordered my sandwich. I was out within 5 minutes which was super great.

I got the Italian beef sandwich with hot giardiniera. I found that the sandwich ingredients individually were high quality components but the overall sandwich was quite disappointing. Despite the bread being high quality, I found it way too big for an Italian beef sandwich. Unlike other Italian beef places in the Midwest, I found that this sandwich was not dipped and lacked the overall texture that makes an Italian beef sandwich great.

The beef itself was not as juicy as I was hoping. It felt dried and boring lacking any real unique personality and flavor.

I tried the Calabrian style potato chips alongside the sandwich and those were some of the best chips I have had at a sandwich shop hands down.

Overall, I felt indifferent about the experience albeit the sandwich I particularly went for was pretty mid. I am willing to give it another shot with a cold cut sandwich at...

Like this new spot serving up all sorts of mostly Italian sandwiches, food, and vine. Lovely interior, easy to browse the merchandise, feels open and inviting. Service is amazing; they were knowledgeable and nice, didn’t mind my curious george-ness asking 101 questions. Question you will ask yourself if what not to buy.. spotted fresh pasta!, big vats of olive oil, and much more for reasonable prices. Ordered the mortadella sandwich and took home a small tub of the dark chocolate gelato. Sandwich was pretty amazing; well made, great bread, and great ingredients. Also size wise it can feed two people. I couldn’t finish it in one sitting. There is parking in front, very convenient. Also there are high table window seats you can perch on while eating your food. Sort of like a contemporary version of what Fraboni’s was. Gotta check out the wines closely next time. Can’t wait to try other sandwiches, pistachio creme, and other yummy things. highly recommend it. Enjoy!

Covid-19 update: what a wonderful nook, serving up Italian goods. So festive esp right now with holidays, great selection of goodies and...