Driftless Cafe has been written up on many food sights and we looked forward to trying this farm-to-table place.  It was about a 2 hour drive from Madison, where we flew in.  Chef/Owner Luke Zahm was a 2017 James Beard semi-finalist for Best Chef Midwest as well as recognized with a Madison “Local Hero Award” and the host of “Wisconsin Foodie.”   There are over 200 certified organic farms in Vernon County, the second highest concentration of organic farmers in the U.S.  Zahm bases his dinner menu on what is seasonal and fresh from these farms and it changes daily.  They serve lunch and dinner Tuesday through Saturday.  The original structure has been expanded to include adjacent buildings so there are several rooms for seating.  We were in the original space that has tree trunks cutting through the room.  The room had light woods, tin ceiling, music in the background and art for sale on the walls. Bench seating lines one wall that had windows to the street on one end and the service counter on the other.  While I applaud his  restaurant concept the food did not live up to the hype on our visit.  Not sure if it was an off night or the combinations weren’t to our liking but I really wanted to like it more than I did.  It’s not easy when you visit once and declare whether you endorse a place or not.  I’d have to say I hope you’ll try it and let me know about your positive experience because I think the place is capable of much better. Continue reading →