Weary Traveler, Madison

Last night we went out with 2 other couples at the Weary Traveler. We arrived a little late and everyone else was eating when we got there. We ordered right away and settled into some small talk. I love the atmosphere in this place. We've been there twice before, and it's one of those places I feel instantly relaxed in. Thick dark wood, dim lighting, good music, (live bands occassionally) interesting art on the walls, and probably the most mesmerizing bathrooms I've ever seen. I don't think that I've ever said what I'm about to say, and I rather hope that I never have occassion to say it again... If you go, find some excuse to use the bathroom. Drink lots of water/beer, or just pretend you have to go, but find some excuse. They aren't big bathrooms, and I think I'm not the only one who faked a little, so you might find yourself waiting in the small hall for a bit. That's okay, read the walls while you wait. This was the first time that we'd had a real meal here, in the past it was drinks and appetizers. I ordered the goulash (sp?). The goulash from my childhood memories had elbow macaroni in it, but maybe that's a Minnesota thing. This goulash did not. It was more of a spicy stew. But as spicy stew goes, it was superb. My mouth is watering now remembering it. I ordered a second hunk o' bread to soak up as much as I could. Though thier menu isn't large, the food is great. Everyone enjoyed their meal. We had a good time. I only had two complaints. The waitress seemed to rush us a bit. She kept emphasizing that there was no rush, but somehow managed to hint that we should order more or leave anyway. Of course we had 6 chatty people , and maybe we were talking a little loudly, it's hard to say. I'll chalk that one up to my own misconception. The other complaint is that we were seated by a door with a big sign that said "emergency exit only, please use other door", it wasn't subtle. But at least half a dozen times someone went in or out of that door, blasting us with cold air from outside. But despite that, I loved this place and look forward to going there again.