In a city that knows its comfort food, Casetta Kitchen and Counter has become the lunch spot friends whisper about and coworkers guard like a secret. Tucked on West Washington Avenue, this stylish counter turns out sandwiches that make people cross town—and rearrange meetings—to get a bite. With house-baked breads, sharp flavors, and a menu that changes just enough to keep you curious, it’s easy to see why lines form before noon.
If you think you know the best sandwich in Madison, Casetta is ready to challenge your rankings.
Why Madisonites Cross Town for Casetta
Casetta Kitchen and Counter isn’t just convenient—it’s destination-worthy. Locals rave about the balance of textures: crisp greens, tangy peppers, and bread that’s fresh enough to perfume the room. The long counter hums at lunch, a sign that regulars know to arrive early during the tight 10:30 AM–2:30 PM window.
With prices in the $10–20 range and portions generous enough to split, value meets craft. Friendly staff, quick service, and a rotating special keep curiosity high. Whether you’re after a classic or a riff, this is the spot that turns a quick bite into a memorable ritual.
The Italian: A Local Legend
The Italian at Casetta earns cult status for its harmony of bold flavors and perfect bread. Layered meats, zingy peppers, crunchy lettuce mix, and just the right spread arrive on Dutch crunch or pillowy focaccia. Reviewers confess to daydreaming about it; others call it the city’s best value.
The sandwich is substantial without being messy, staying crisp for the walk back to the office. Paired with a cold soda, it’s picnic-ready, date-worthy, and line-justifying. If you’re unsure where to start, this is the benchmark. Order once, and you’ll understand why people plan their lunch breaks around it.
Weekday-Only Magic: Hours and Strategy
Casetta runs a focused schedule—Monday through Friday, 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM—so timing matters. Expect a pre-noon rush; lines move quickly, but popular items can sell out. Arrive early for the freshest bread and best selection, especially near week’s end. If you’re carrying out, consider sturdier breads like Dutch crunch or focaccia to retain texture.
Plan your visit around downtown parking or walk from the Capitol Square. The shop is closed weekends, making weekday lunches feel special. Keep an eye on daily specials announced in-store and on social—these limited runs are often the reason regulars return twice a week.
Breads That Make the Bite
Great sandwiches begin with great bread, and Casetta’s Dutch crunch and gluten-free focaccia stand out. Dutch crunch brings a crackly top and tender crumb that enhances juicy fillings, while the focaccia offers pillowy heft and savory aromatics.
Reviewers frequently note the fresh-baked aroma, and even after a short commute, the structure holds. For saucy builds or longer carryout, opt Dutch crunch; for herbaceous richness and soft chew, focaccia excels. Either way, the bread is not backdrop—it’s a co-star. Ask staff which pairing best suits your order; they’re spot-on with recommendations that keep each bite balanced and satisfying.
The Specials Board: CBR+ and Meatball Mondays
Casetta’s specials turn regulars into repeat customers. The CBR+—a best-in-class chicken bacon ranch—layers crisp chicken, smoky bacon, and zesty ranch with fresh greens for a craveable combo. On Mondays, the meatball sandwich draws a crowd with tender meatballs, rich sauce, and bread that soaks up flavor without collapsing.
Specials rotate, so watch social posts and the counter board. These aren’t afterthoughts; they’re calibrated for texture and punch. If you’re new, pair a special with chips or a soda and you’ll understand why people talk about them days later. Don’t wait till late service—these often sell out first.
Sides, Sips, and Sweet Finishes
Casetta complements its sandwiches with crisp beverages and treats worth the add-on. Regulars recommend pairing a cold, glass-bottled Coke, Italian sodas, or a cherry Siren Shrub with your order for acidity and fizz.
Cookies are a sleeper hit—big, chewy, and often cited as must-order; grab two for desk-drawer insurance. Seasonal soups like Pasta e Fagioli appear alongside sandwiches, perfect for splitting and next-day leftovers. The result is a lunch that feels complete without being fussy. For an ideal combo, order a signature sandwich, a bright soda, and a cookie—you’ll leave satisfied and probably planning your next visit.
Practical Tips: Ordering, Value, and Accessibility
With a 4.8-star reputation and consistent midday crowds, efficiency matters. Decide your bread first, review the specials board, and have a backup pick in case of sellouts. Portions are generous for the price, often stretching to two meals. If you’re gluten-sensitive, ask for the GF focaccia. Lines move briskly; ordering to-go is common for Capitol-area workers.
Parking can be limited downtown—consider walking or rideshare. For the freshest experience, eat promptly to maintain texture, especially with saucy builds. Questions? The staff are friendly, fast, and happy to steer you toward a sandwich that matches your flavor and crunch preferences.