Scatz

in Middleton, WI
by Mike Huberty - December 2008

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Photo Caption: Scatz in Middleton

***Scatz now permanently closed The far west side of Madison is the fastest growing area in the city. There are new ways to see live bands and party out there in places that were previously just cornfields and open space. Which is good for an expanding population where people don't necessarily want to take the risk of driving downtown when they're drinking or the expense of a pricey cab ride home. Enter Scatz, a big new sports bar and live music venue in Middleton that opened in November. And according to the owner, Pat McCulloch, opening a new nightclub “is the most exciting thing to do besides play shortstop for the Brewers... our vision is to blow people away and make them want to come back.” To accomplish that, there's a big stage for bands, with a light show that McCulloch says, “will make people feel like they're at a real concert”. For just hanging out, there are eighty-seven televisions and some giant projection screens along with a full dinner and lunch menu that's more than just bar food. My favorite sandwich names are The Ricky Ricardo (Cuban, naturally) and The GarrGanntuan, a heart attack on a plate that features a brat patty on top of a beef patty, with bacon, ham, cheese and fried egg. He promises a late night menu soon as well for that late night craving that often accompanies getting liquored up. As far as music goes, their first band is Madison's LUBE and they'll be playing Saturday, December 6th. McCulloch is excited about the possibilities of bringing in national acts as well as local and regional bands. “Sundays, Mondays, and Tuesdays, if a band coming through the area wants a show between Chicago and Minneapolis this can be the perfect place for them. Instead of have to take the night off, they can play a show here... We also want to bring in acts like the Crystal Grand (music theater in Wisconsin Dells) does by bringing in classic artists, like STYX and REO SPEEDWAGON. The night MOTLEY CRUE is playing [Valentine's Day] we're having a DEF LEPPARD tribute band. ” Currently, there's also a Poker Night on Wednesdays run through www.badgerpoker.com and they'll be developing other nightly events as the club continues to grow. But McCulloch is exhilarated by what he's seen so far. “This is a place you've never seen before in the Madison area, you'll be impressed by what we've done here.“

Scatz
2248 Deming Way
Middleton, WI 53562 (608) 203-825
http://www.go2scatz.com/