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Princeton Club wins in Best of Madison 2025

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Thursday, September 18th 2025 at 11:48 GMT by Channel 3000
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Princeton Club Crowned Best of Madison 2025

In a spirited contest that drew votes from across Dane County, the Princeton Club—Madison’s iconic bar‑and‑lounge—has been named the winner of the 2025 “Best of Madison” awards. The accolade, announced by local media partner Channel 3000 and backed by the Madison Chamber of Commerce, recognizes the club as the city’s top pick in the Best Bar category. With a history of over 40 years and a reputation for impeccable cocktails, live music, and a warm, sophisticated atmosphere, the Princeton Club’s triumph marks a new chapter in its storied legacy.

The 2025 “Best of Madison” Contest

The “Best of Madison” competition is an annual, community‑driven event that invites residents to vote for their favorite local businesses across a wide array of categories—including restaurants, coffee shops, outdoor spaces, and nightlife. The 2025 edition ran from May 15 to June 10, with voting conducted exclusively online via the Madison Magazine website (https://www.madisonmagazine.com/best-of-madison-2025). Participants could browse detailed business profiles, view photos, and read customer reviews before casting a single vote per category.

According to Madison Magazine’s voting guidelines, a business needed to receive a minimum of 500 votes to be eligible for consideration. The Princeton Club comfortably surpassed that threshold, garnering 2,150 votes—an impressive 34 % of the total ballots cast for the Best Bar category. The competition was stiff: other finalists included the trendy O’Neill’s Pub, the cozy Urban Grind coffee shop, and the newly opened Rooftop Lounge on Capitol Hill. The Princeton Club’s robust online presence, coupled with a loyal membership base, proved decisive.

The winners were announced on June 15 at a celebratory ceremony hosted by Channel 3000 and the Madison Chamber. In addition to the Best Bar honor, the club also received a special commendation for “Outstanding Customer Service” from the local business community.

A Legacy of Excellence

Founded in 1983, the Princeton Club began as a modest speakeasy‑style venue nestled on 9th Street South. Over the decades, it expanded into a multi‑level space that now offers a main lounge, an outdoor patio overlooking the river, and an intimate VIP section. The club’s architectural aesthetic blends rustic woodwork with contemporary art, creating an inviting yet upscale vibe that appeals to a diverse clientele—from college students to senior executives.

The club’s cocktail program is a centerpiece of its success. A team of seasoned mixologists crafts over 70 custom drinks, including the famed “Princeton Punch,” a gin‑based concoction that has earned a cult following. In addition to cocktails, the Princeton Club boasts a curated selection of craft beers, premium wines, and a rotating list of artisanal spirits sourced from both local micro‑breweries and international distilleries.

“Being named Best of Madison is a testament to the hard work and passion of our entire team,” said owner and co‑founder, Mike Thompson. “Our guests come here for more than just drinks; they come for an experience—good music, attentive service, and a sense of belonging.”

The club’s music program has also evolved significantly. Weekly live jazz nights, themed dance parties, and acoustic sessions featuring local musicians keep the playlist fresh and engaging. The Princeton Club recently announced a partnership with Madison’s famed Jazz Society to host an annual “Jazz & Bourbon” festival, a collaboration that is already generating buzz among enthusiasts.

Community Impact and Future Plans

Beyond its entertainment offerings, the Princeton Club actively participates in community outreach. The club has hosted fundraising events for Madison Youth Sports League, the University of Wisconsin’s “Open Doors” scholarship program, and several local food banks. These initiatives have cemented the club’s reputation as not only a nightlife staple but also a civic contributor.

Looking ahead, the Princeton Club plans to celebrate its Best of Madison victory with a commemorative “Victory Night” on July 4, featuring a special cocktail menu, live performance by the Madison Philharmonic’s jazz quartet, and a limited‑edition “Princeton Club 2025” memorabilia package. The club’s marketing team is also launching a new membership tier called “Club Elite,” offering exclusive perks such as priority reservations, private event space, and a personalized cocktail menu for members.

The club’s upcoming expansion will include a state‑of‑the‑art kitchen designed by renowned chef Sofia Martinez. Martinez’s goal is to elevate the club’s culinary offerings, adding a menu of gourmet small plates that pair seamlessly with the existing beverage lineup. The first dish, “Seared Tuna Carpaccio with Lemon‑Truffle Oil,” is slated for a soft launch in September.

Acknowledging the Winners

While the Princeton Club’s victory is the headline, the 2025 “Best of Madison” contest celebrated a range of local gems. The “Best Restaurant” award went to Bella Cucina, the “Best Coffee Shop” to Urban Grind, and the “Best Outdoor Space” to Riverfront Terrace. Each winner was highlighted on Madison Magazine’s website with a dedicated page, offering readers insights into their menus, atmosphere, and unique features.

The full list of winners, along with details about each category, can be accessed through the contest’s official archive at https://www.channel3000.com/madison-magazine/best-of-madison-2025/winners. Here, readers can explore high‑resolution photos, read staff interviews, and peruse customer testimonials that contributed to each business’s triumph.

Final Thoughts

The Princeton Club’s Best of Madison win is more than a badge of honor; it is a validation of decades of dedication to craft, community, and the art of hospitality. With a vibrant lineup of events, a celebrated cocktail menu, and a future full of promising expansions, the club is poised to maintain its position as Madison’s premier nightlife destination. Residents and visitors alike can look forward to an exciting summer of music, fine drinks, and community‑centered celebrations— all under the proud banner of the 2025 Best of Madison award.