The Cook’s Room

We’ve been in this area for almost three years now and I’ve finally made it to The Cook’s Room!  It’s in downtown Dodgeville and as you can see they are located in a beautiful, Italianate style (I hope I’m right) building.  My first visit was about two weeks ago.  I walked in and there was a raucous group of ladies who were definitely having a grand time.  It turned out that one of them was a former music student  of mine and she told me that they had all just come from a “Laughter Yoga” class and they were practicing what they had learned.  An older couple was having a quiet lunch in one corner.   Towards the back room, a group of teenagers took pictures of each other nonstop.  A toddler waddled and crawled across the room away from it’s mother.  The cafe seemed to be a favorite local hangout across all ages.  They also support local culture and businessess  evident from the posters and cards that decorate the edge of the bar.  The space was very colorful yet soothing.  I was instantly drawn to the large tins along the wall where they keep their loose teas and was happy to discover that they had apricot tea in stock (my favorite dessert tea).   

I met my friend Resha for lunch and we both ordered salads.  I had the “Provence” (marinated chicken, tomatoes, roasted red peppers, red onions, and kalamata olives served over mixed greens with balsamic vinaigrette and freshly baked bread).  It was delicately flavored just the way I liked it.  The salad was huge and I had to take home more than half of it.  For $8 it was a very generous helping.  They also serve a variety of hot and cold sandwiches.  Next time I will have to try the “Campagnola” (chicken, pesto, mozarella cheese, and roasted red peppers on sourdough bread).  We both appreciated the friendly and quick service.

On my second visit last Thursday, I ordered a slice of strawberry rhubarb pie and a slice of turtle (caramel & pecan) chocolate cake to go.  I happily devoured my strawberry rhubarb pie because I was hoping that I was eating their last locally sourced frozen fruit supply from last season.  Keith loved his chocolate cake (but then again he loves all chocolate cakes except for ones that I try to make healthy at home).  I also got to talk to owner Amy Jo Gobin briefly.  She is one busy lady.  We did our interview while she balanced two crates of food in her arms! 

The Cook’s Room is a wonderful place to visit anytime of the day.  They are located in downtown Dodgeville.  You can’t miss it! 

Hours of Operation:  Monday to Friday 8 to 4PM, and Saturdays from 9 to 3PM.  Closed on Sundays.