Beers
A rotating selection of national, local and craft beers to quench your thirst.
Rising from the Ashes: Tom's Burned Down Cafe'
Experience the allure of the iconic dive bar rebuilt twice after fires. Voted Best Dive Bar with global recognition, offering live music, events, and a unique atmosphere.
Our Drink Menu
Explore our curated selection of beverages that complements the vibrant atmosphere of Toms Burned Down Cafe. Bring CASH - we do not accept cards. An ATM is on-site.
Signature Cocktails
Deliciously crafted cocktails that embody the spirit of our unique bar.
Refreshing Wines
Choose from a very limited variety of red or white wine.
Rising from Ashes to Dive Bar Fame
Destroyed by fire the 2nd time in May of 1992, Tom's Burned Down Cafe has emerged as a phoenix from the ashes, becoming a legendary dive bar. Voted multiple times as the 'Best Dive Bar' and named one of the 'Top 25 Best Beach Bars in the World', Tom's is a beacon of unique charm. With live music, pop-up events like Lip Sync Battle and Karaoke, fantastic staff, and a stunning location near the water, this bar thrives on the vibrancy of its patrons. Come experience the magic of Tom's - the unforgettable transformation awaits!
Why Choose Toms Burned Down Cafe?
Join us for an unforgettable experience at Toms!
Unique History
We rose from the ashes twice, embodying resilience and spirit.
Best Dive Bar Awarded
Voted many times as the finest dive bar in the area.
Vibrant Entertainment
Enjoy live music, karaoke, and events on our renowned stages!
Fantastic Atmosphere
Our staff curates the perfect music to accentuate your visit.
Customer Testimonials
See what our customers have to say about their experiences at Toms Burned Down Cafe!
This Place is on Fire
Tom’s Burned Down Cafe
La Pointe, Wisconsin
Tom’s Burned Down Cafe is a hastily cobbled-together bar draped with tents and tarps that could easily be mistaken for a junkyard. Presiding over Lake Superior, it is located on Madeline Island and only accessible by ferry boat from the mainland port of Bayfield. This cannabis-scented open-air ramshackle wonderland of bars, decks and stages is adorned with eclectic art and twinkling lights. Hundreds of signs share sayings like, “You have to be tough if you are going to be stupid.” How did this place come to be? Nearly 30 years ago, a fire broke out at an existing bar called Leona’s and the structure mostly burned to the ground. The name was changed to Tom’s Burned Down Cafe (“Tommy’s” for those in the know). By day, it’s a funky beach break. By night, locals and tourists come together to enjoy live music and celebrate another day in paradise. Cash only.
"Such a wonderful place to hang out. One can pass a full day just finding and reading all the signs. They have several nook areas where one can pass the time playing cards and watching tourists. At night, if it is chilly, they lite up wood burning fireplaces next to the bar to cozy up to. Bring cash as they do not accept credit cards...but there is a ATM at the entrance." John N.
“I love this place!! I will make a point to stop here for drinks every time I’m on the Island, from now on. Drinks were great, funky atmosphere, and the staff had such great attitude. I could spend hours just looking at all of the cool “stuff” and reading all of the funny signs hanging all over the place. I can’t wait to go back!!” Joeseph F ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Dive Bars With MJ
To think it has already been a week since I've checked out this one-of-a-kind dive bar on Madeline Island!
I am a BIG FAN of
The review:
Drinks 9.5/10 - On the Ferry over I was told to try the Island Punch, so that's what I did. A very strong tasty drink! I also had a summer hummer that was just as delicious.
Atmosphere 9/10 -It's a fun bar. There's so much to look at. Everyone was kind. I had some very fun conversations. I even met someone who lives on Madeline Island year round.
Overall 9/10 -Check the pictures out! I felt like I was at some Florida beach bar but I was on an island in Northern Wisconsin sippin' a cold drink on a beautiful summer day. I'm still trying to figure out how they are open in the winter, I guess I'll have to go back up there to find out!
Get in Touch with Us
Connect with Tom's Burned Down Cafe for inquiries and more!
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common queries about Toms Burned Down Cafe.
When did Toms Burned Down Cafe open?
Toms Burned Down Cafe has been rising from the ashes since May 1992 after being destroyed by fire.
What type of entertainment do you offer?
We feature live music, karaoke, open mic nights, and engaging events like Lip Sync Battles on our two famous stages.
What drinks are available at the cafe?
We proudly serve a selection of beers, wines, cocktails, and soft drinks to quench your thirst.
Do you serve food at Toms?
While we have a full restaurant license, we currently do not serve food—but our atmosphere is unbeatable!
When do you open for the season?
We open our gates in warmer months most days about noon and close about midnight.
Where are you located?
You can find us at the corner of Middle Road & Bell Street, on Madeline Island in Lake Superior (LaPointe, WI).