Madison Cafe — Restaurant in New York

Review of Madison Café – Willis Ave & 146th St., Bronx

I used to genuinely enjoy going to Madison Café. It was a convenient spot where I could grab food and exchange a few friendly words with the staff. Unfortunately, over time my experience there has drastically declined, and I feel it’s important to share what I’ve noticed so others can be aware.

First, let me be clear: the quality of the food itself has remained consistent. The taste is decent and they prepare orders fairly quickly. That said, the way the staff treats their customers completely overshadows the food.

The girl at the register and the men cooking behind the counter have become increasingly unfriendly and unwelcoming. It feels like they have no interest in their job or in treating people with basic respect. One of the cooks, in particular, gives off the impression that he’s either deeply unhappy with life or completely resentful of the work he’s doing. He never smiles, always seems irritated, and if you dare to ask for something simple like extra onions, peppers, or a little salt and pepper, they act as though you’re bothering them. This is not how you treat paying customers.

But here’s what really made me lose trust in this place: the pricing. If you don’t ask in advance what your total should be, there’s a high chance you will be overcharged. I’ve noticed it several times. On one occasion, I actually added up the prices myself and caught the mistake on the spot. When I confronted them, they quickly apologized and called it a “mistake.” But if I hadn’t said anything, they would have pocketed the extra money. That experience made me realize this might not be an accident—it’s a pattern.

To me, this behavior shows dishonesty. Whether it’s intentional or not, overcharging customers is unacceptable. Combine that with the rude, miserable attitude and the lack of hospitality, and it becomes very clear: they do not value the people who keep their business alive.

At this point, I’ve decided to stop going there. If you do choose to eat at Madison Café, my advice is this: always check your prices carefully before paying and don’t expect a warm or respectful interaction. In my opinion, a business that treats its customers this way does not deserve your money.

There are too many other cafés and delis in the Bronx where you’ll be greeted with a smile, charged fairly, and actually appreciated for your business. Sadly, Madison Café is not one of...

I’ve been a regular customer at Madison Café for quite some time, visiting almost every day. In the beginning, I really enjoyed coming here—the food was fresh, flavorful, and served with a smile. The woman up front taking orders is always friendly, professional, and makes you feel welcome. She’s definitely one of the highlights of this place.

However, I’ve consistently had a different experience with the two gentlemen in the back who prepare and package the food. They’re not very approachable or cooperative. Whenever I’ve asked for something simple—like a small adjustment or clarification—they act annoyed or bothered, as if customer requests are a problem. That kind of attitude doesn’t sit well, especially with regular customers.

Lately, I’ve also noticed a drop in food quality. I usually order the cheeseburger deluxe, and I used to really enjoy it. But recently, the burger has been overcooked, dry, and lacking flavor. The bun is soggy and sticks to the meat, which makes the whole thing less appetizing. I’ve also asked for an extra slice of pickle a few times—nothing major—but even as a regular, they don’t want to accommodate. That’s disappointing.

Considering how expensive the food is, I really expect better quality and service. Madison Café definitely has potential, but there are areas that need improvement—especially consistency in food quality and the attitude of the kitchen staff. For now, I’d rate it 3 out of 5 stars. Hopefully, they’ll listen to feedback and make the...

This spot used to be one of my go-to places, but I can’t ignore how badly it has gone downhill. While the food itself hasn’t really changed in flavor or quality, the way the staff treats people has gotten worse and worse.

The cashier and the cooks act like they’re being forced to be there. The man cooking especially comes across as angry or fed up all the time. There’s no friendliness, no smile, and if you ask for something simple like a little extra onion, peppers, or seasoning, they act annoyed as if you’re asking for the impossible. It gives the whole place a negative, uncomfortable vibe.

What really made me stop trusting them is the way they handle prices. If you don’t specifically ask for the total or break it down, they’ll sometimes charge you more than what it should be. I caught it myself when the math didn’t add up. Only after I pointed it out did they apologize and call it a “mistake.” But once it happens more than once, you realize it’s not just a mistake — it’s a pattern.

Between the rude service, the miserable attitudes, and the shady pricing, it’s hard to keep supporting a place like this. If you decide to buy food here, double-check your receipt and what they charge you. Personally, I’ve decided to take my money elsewhere — there are plenty of cafés and delis in the Bronx where customers are treated with respect and honesty.

Madison Café has proven it doesn’t deserve loyal customers, and it certainly doesn’t...