Madeira Cafe

If bars were women, the Madiera would be the wallflower, with horned rim glasses and her tresses in a bun, who, when asked to dance, slips off the specs, lets her hair down, and and catches the eye of every guy there. Practically in the shadow of the beautiful and sophisticated Cafe Funchal (which also specializes in Madeiran cuisine!) and located on Church Street, just off Nash Road, the Madiera Cafe holds her own, and while Funchal may be the one-night stand you'll never forget, the Madiera would be your steady girl...sweet, unassuming, attractive, and keeping you coming back for more. Owned by a husband-and-wife team, it is a charming little joint, with an excellent menu (including fresh octopus, a favorite of Mr. Draft's) and a private function room that can be used at no cost. The draft selection was not out-of -the ordinary, featuring the usual triumvirate of Bud, Coors and Miller, and little else, but they make a damn good martini. The decor was unpretentious, subdued and comfortable. Of note was an internet jukebox that , for $1., will play "any song in the world".... I gave it a shot, opting for a lesser known Talking Heads tune, and it kicked it out in moments. The Barflies were happy with the Madeira, giving it a formidable 8-and-a-half. Check it out...you'll wanna go back...just like you wanna go back for another dance with that wallflower. (Roll Call: Mr. Draft, Mr. Mix, Mr. Cork)