Dear Tell All: I am planning to propose to my girlfriend very soon, and I was wondering if you could give some advice about the place. I know she would like it to be "in public," and the Memorial Union Terrace would be perfect, but that obviously won't work with the weather. So I was considering a bar/pub/restaurant with live music. The problem is that I can't think of a nice place.
We have lived in Madison for two years (me) and one year (her), but not having a car, my knowledge of bars is pretty much restricted to the downtown area. I would prefer a place like, for example, Brocach on the Capitol Square, but there they seem to play mostly Irish music, and our taste is pretty much rock, so I don't think it fits. Some friends of mine suggested the High Noon Saloon, but I would like something more romantic.
Do you know of any place that would fit my needs?
Incurable Romantic
Dear Romantic: I wouldn't reject the High Noon Saloon out of hand. If you pop the question during Rock Star Gomeroke (Tuesdays, 9 p.m.), you can jump onstage and sing your girlfriend an appropriate song with live-band accompaniment. "Colour My World" is always effective in these situations.
But let's explore other options. The Alchemy, 1980 Atwood Ave., offers a pub-like atmosphere similar to Brocach's. You can go on a night when a local rock band is playing, order a dolmades appetizer, and wait for the mood to strike.
The Majestic Theatre, 115 King St., would be a classy choice, and it even has a balcony, just as in Romeo and Juliet. The Orpheum Theatre's lobby restaurant, 216 State St., is a romantic spot before a big rock show.
Mickey's Tavern, 1524 Williamson St., serves great food and plays your kind of music. There's a room with couches that would make a fine spot for a proposal, if you can find a space. You might also scope out the Great Dane, the Argus, the Harmony Bar and Restaurant Magnus to see if the music and the mood fit your taste.
The Frequency, 121 W. Main St., is another possibility, though be sure to get the job done before the band starts playing loudly in the back room. If it does, you'll have to shout "WILL YOU MARRY ME?" at top volume, and your girlfriend may think you've said "FILL YOUR SCARY TREE!" In which case she won't say "yes," but "what?"
Here's hoping for "yes."
Do you have a question about life or love in Madison? Email tellall@isthmus.com.
