Bernell's

Bar Food|Women|Sports|Live Music

2513 Seiferth Rd
Madison, WI 53716

State Region

Southeast WI

Year Opened: 2025
Still in Business

Exact Date Opened: Saturday, November 08, 2025
Exact Date Closed: Still Open

Clientele Primarily Identified As

Mixed

Logo:

Bernell's is Madison's first women-centered sports bar, honoring late coach Bernell Hooker, who was a passionate women's basketball coach and sports advocate. Founded by Rita Adair, the venue focuses on highlighting women's sports, soul food, and live blues music in an inclusive and welcoming sanctuary for all.

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Whenever Rita Adair requested to watch women's sports at Madison bars, her requests were always denied. She remembers visiting over a dozen bars around the city, only to find one that would say yes.

Frustrated, she decided to open a bar of her own, Bernell's is the first women-centered sports bar in Madison history. She is excited to increase the visibility of women's sports, including not just basketball and football, but volleyball, hockey, and more.

The bar honors her late wife Bernell Hooker, who was a 25-year women's college basketball coach, owner of the Milwaukee Aces women's basketball team, and dedicated champion of women's sports worldwide. After making history for years, Bernell passed away in August 2024 after a battle with ovarian cancer.

Bernell's grill offers a variety of food options, including fish fries, taco Tuesdays, drag brunches, and a daily special menu. Adair regularly hosts live music events in addition to its sports viewing parties.

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