🍽️ What to Order

Expert recommendations based on quality, value, and visitor feedback

Item Price
Fried Chicken Meal
Crispy, golden fried chicken served with two classic sides and cornbread. Widely considered the signature dish.
 $14.99
Collard Greens
Slow-cooked, savory collard greens— a local favorite and the most-praised side on the menu.
 $4.99
Mac & Cheese
Rich, creamy baked mac and cheese—comfort food at its best, ideal as a side or a small meal.
 $4.99
Catfish Dinner
Southern-style fried catfish, two sides, and cornbread; a go-to for seafood lovers.
 $16.99
Smothered Pork Chops
Tender pork chops braised in savory gravy, served with sides and cornbread. Hearty and filling.
 $17.99
Sweet Potato Pie
House-made dessert with a flaky crust and perfectly spiced sweet potato filling.
 $3.99
Fried Chicken (A La Carte)
Order by the piece—perfect for customizing your meal or sharing with friends.
 $8.99

Menu Highlights & Signature Dishes: Marie’s Soul Food is all about Southern comfort classics, and the fried chicken is the undisputed star—crispy, juicy, and seasoned just right, according to local reviews and repeat customers. The collard greens and mac & cheese are essential sides, both praised for their home-cooked flavor and generous portions. Seafood fans should try the fried catfish dinner, while the smothered pork chops offer a hearty, stick-to-your-ribs option. Don’t skip dessert; the sweet potato pie is a fan favorite and often sells out by mid-afternoon.

Prices & Value: Entrées range from $11.50 to $17.99, with sides around $5 and desserts under $5. Portions are large—most diners report leftovers, making Marie’s a strong value for the price. A meal for two with sides and dessert typically lands under $35, which is highly competitive for the Monroe Street area.

Dietary Options & Allergen Info: The menu leans traditional, with an emphasis on meat, dairy, and gluten-containing items. Vegetarian options are limited (mac & cheese, select sides), and vegan/gluten-free diners should inquire directly, as cross-contamination is possible in the kitchen. Marie’s is transparent about ingredients and happy to answer allergen questions—just call ahead or ask at pickup.

Ordering & Logistics: Marie’s operates primarily as a takeout spot with friendly, efficient service. No-contact delivery is available via Grubhub, and curbside pickup is offered for convenience. Reservations are accepted and recommended, especially on Fridays and weekends when peak demand can lead to sell-outs and longer waits. Payment is accepted via credit/debit card or cash; tipping is customary and appreciated at pickup.

Insider Guidance: Popular items (fried chicken, sweet potato pie) can sell out before closing—calling ahead or placing an online order secures your favorites. If you want the full experience, order a “meal plate” with two sides and cornbread. For groups or families, mix and match a la carte items to sample more flavors. Marie’s is busiest Friday evenings and Sunday afternoons; for shorter waits, visit midweek or early in the service window.

✨ The Experience

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Atmosphere & Ambiance
Marie's Soul Food radiates a cozy, no-frills, family-run charm. The space is small and casual, decorated with homey touches and a welcoming vibe that feels like visiting a friend’s kitchen. While seating is very limited, the warmth comes from friendly staff and the constant, mouthwatering aroma of Southern cooking.
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Service Style & Speed
Service is fast-casual and focused on takeout. Orders are prepared fresh, so expect a short wait—usually 10–20 minutes, though peak hours can stretch that to 30 minutes. Staff are consistently described as friendly, attentive, and happy to provide recommendations or accommodate special requests.
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Crowd Type & Noise Level
Marie's draws a diverse local crowd—families, students, and longtime Madison residents—especially on weekends. The vibe is lively but not rowdy. Since the focus is on takeout, the space rarely feels crowded or noisy, and most customers grab their orders to enjoy at home, in nearby Vilas Park, or on campus.
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Seating Options & Layout
There is extremely limited indoor seating (a few counter spots), and no outdoor patio. Most guests opt for takeout. The small footprint allows for efficient pickup and good accessibility, including a wheelchair-accessible restroom. If you want to dine on-site, arrive early or plan for a quick meal.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Does Marie’s Soul Food offer vegetarian or gluten-free options?
While the menu is rooted in classic Southern comfort food (which often includes meat, dairy, and gluten), there are a few vegetarian-friendly sides such as mac & cheese and collard greens. Gluten-free diners should use caution, as most main dishes are breaded or cooked in shared oil. The staff is open to ingredient questions—call ahead for specific dietary needs.
How can I avoid long waits or sold-out menu items?
Peak times are Friday evenings and Sunday afternoons, when popular dishes like fried chicken and sweet potato pie often sell out. To guarantee your favorites, place your order online or by phone early in the day. Reservations are accepted and recommended for large or group orders.
Is takeout or delivery available, and how do I order?
Yes—Marie's is primarily a takeout restaurant, with online ordering available through their website and Grubhub for delivery. Curbside pickup and no-contact delivery are both options. Simply order online or call ahead; payment by card or cash is accepted at pickup.

📖 About Marie's Soul Food

Marie's Soul Food is a family-owned restaurant rooted in the heart of Madison’s Vilas neighborhood, serving up authentic Southern comfort food to locals and visitors alike. Founded with a mission to bring the warmth, flavor, and hospitality of home-cooked soul food to Monroe Street, Marie’s quickly became a neighborhood staple. The menu echoes family traditions—recipes passed down through generations—while the staff’s genuine friendliness makes every guest feel like part of the extended family.

What sets Marie’s apart is its commitment to consistency and quality, even with a relatively small menu. The kitchen prides itself on using fresh ingredients, generous portions, and time-honored cooking methods. Community involvement is central—Marie’s regularly supports local events and welcomes neighbors from all walks of life. Whether you’re a student looking for a hearty takeout meal, a family seeking comfort food, or a Madisonian craving a taste of the South, Marie’s Soul Food delivers an experience that’s both delicious and deeply rooted in community tradition.