FoodPlacee Passport United States · Wisconsin · 38472
Verified Monona Bait & Ice Cream Shop
Monona, Wisconsin, USA
Rating★ 4.5 / 5
CategoryIce Cream Shop
Food Place Passport
Monona Bait & Ice Cream Shop in Wisconsin
A cozy ice cream and sandwich shop on Winnequah Rd offering a relaxed dining experience with simple, fresh fare in Monona.
4516 Winnequah Rd, Monona, WI 53716, United States
Overview
About This Food Place
Monona Bait & Ice Cream Shop is a cherished fixture in Monona, WI, offering a unique blend of ice cream delights, hearty burgers, and classic submarine sandwiches. This down-home institution also provides live bait, catering to the local lake community and visitors alike. Its cozy, retro atmosphere invites both locals and tourists to stop by for a comforting treat or a casual meal.
Situated at 4516 Winnequah Rd, this eatery is praised for friendly staff, generous portions, and its picturesque setting near the lake and parks. The ice cream, sourced from the University of Wisconsin Creamery, is a highlight, especially the gelato and chocolate flavors. Visitors appreciate the blend of nostalgic charm with quality food in a welcoming environment.
Gallery
Photos from Monona Bait & Ice Cream Shop
Real shots of the food, atmosphere, and signature dishes at this location.
Local favorites
Why People Come Here
A beloved local spot offering delicious ice cream desserts, classic burgers, and subs with a cozy, down-home atmosphere.
Quality Ice Cream
Featuring gelato and rich chocolate ice cream sourced from the UW creamery, known for creamy, flavorful treats.
Takeaway & Seating
Offers convenient takeaway service alongside comfortable seating for relaxed dining experiences.
Family Friendly
Good for kids with welcoming staff and a nearby park providing an ideal setting for families and groups.
Prime Location
Set across from lakeside parks and a quiet beachfront, perfect for enjoying lake views after a meal.
Free Parking Options
Convenient free parking available via street parking, a lot, and on-site spaces.
Accessible Facilities
Wheelchair-accessible entrance, parking, and toilets ensure comfortable access for all visitors.
Highly Rated
With a 4.5-star rating from over 230 reviews, the shop is praised for great food and friendly service.
Experience
When & How to Enjoy This Place
Perfect for casual outings, Monona Bait & Ice Cream Shop suits moments when simple pleasures and comfort food take center stage.
This spot offers a homey vibe enhanced by lake views and nearby parks, making it an ideal pause on warm days for ice cream or a satisfying burger. The cash-only policy and seasonal schedule add to its nostalgic charm. — FoodPlacee editorial note
Family-Friendly Treats
Enjoy a relaxed outing with kids featuring popular gelato and chocolate ice cream flavors, complemented by classic subs and burgers that please all ages.
Post-Bike Ride Hangout
Stop here after cycling around Monona's lake for a cool shake or a hearty sandwich, soaking in the retro vibes and scenic outdoor seating.
Casual Lunch Spot
A quick lunch option with takeaway available, featuring satisfying burgers and subs that offer both convenience and quality for midday meals.
Summer Day Escape
Make a refreshing summer stop for ice cream after enjoying nearby Schluter Beach and local parks, perfect for savoring seasonal indulgences outdoors.
Popular ice cream flavors Takeaway available Family friendly Free parking Wheelchair accessible Dogs allowed outside Seasonal operation
Guest sentiment
What People Feel
A snapshot of what local diners frequently mention about this location.
TG
Tiffany G 2 month ago
"Delicious ice cream with an excellent location. Love the lake views and all the parks. Staff is very nice. Also love that it is a local business instead of a chain. You can tell the owner takes pride in his shop."
JJ
Justin Jones 2 month ago
"A fun local place to grab ice cream. They get their ice cream from the UW creamery so it’s pretty good. The place has a very homey feel. Across the street is a park with a lot of additional outdoor seating."
EL
Ellen Light 3 month ago
"Great burgers and shakes! Cozy and classic decor. Definitely worth stopping here on a bike ride around the lake."
AB
A B 3 month ago
"Retro vibes. Perfect summer stop across Schluter Beach. You need to pay extra for chocolate flavored ice cream which wasn't expected but well worth it! The place closes mid fall and reopens late spring."
MS
Matt Severn 3 month ago
"Their chocolate shake was predictably good. The service was good once I was served. And the setting is pleasantly different than the more well known spots that we all know. A bit pricey and cash only (though they have an ATM nearby)."
MT
Michael True 3 month ago
"Fantastic ice cream, but a bit pricey. Right across from the lake and park. Definitely a hidden gem worth checking out."
AS
Andrew Scully 4 month ago
"First time visit and I am not disappointed. An iconic location of the history of Madison wi. The ice cream is delicious. Bring cash. The don’t accept cards."
KW
Kent Wannebo 4 month ago
"Many memories made at this little spot...just across the street from a quiet little beach front specially designed for young parents and little kids. Mine aren't so young anymore, but two of them asked to come back to visit for the nostalgia, the beach air, and the Babcock (that's right...and yes they carry Orange Chocolate chip)."
Visit info
When to Visit
Weekly hours below — always confirm with the business before holidays or special events.
Today Updating...
Best time to visit
Ideal for summer outings by the lake, with a relaxed ambiance perfect for ice cream lovers and families.
Late spring to mid fall season Afternoons and early evenings Family-friendly peak times Perfect for ice cream cravings after outdoor activities
On the map
Where This Food Place Lives
Find your way to Monona Bait & Ice Cream Shop in Wisconsin .
Address 4516 Winnequah Rd, Monona, WI 53716, United States
Phone +1 608-222-1944
Area Wisconsin
Call Address copied ✓
Questions answered
Food Place Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about Monona Bait & Ice Cream Shop to help plan your visit.
This shop offers ice cream desserts, classic subs, burgers, and lunch options alongside live bait. Popular treats include gelato and chocolate ice cream. Menu items and availability may change seasonally.
Seating is available on-site for those who want to dine in, and takeaway service is also offered for customers on the go.
Yes, the shop features wheelchair-accessible parking, entrance, and restroom facilities to accommodate all guests comfortably.
Payments are accepted in cash only. An ATM nearby can assist customers who need to withdraw cash.
Free parking options include street parking, a parking lot, and on-site parking for convenient access to the shop.
Dogs are welcome in the outside areas, making it easy to bring furry friends along for a visit.
The establishment is good for kids, offering a welcoming environment suitable for families.
As a small, local business, it prides itself on a homey feel, live bait service, quality ice cream from UW creamery, and proximity to scenic lake views and parks.
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Menus, prices, hours, services, and availability may change. Please contact the food place directly before visiting or ordering.