Madison Reporter

Restauranteur Gil Altschul recently opened his new Bandit Tacos & Coffee restaurant on the wings of lifelong aspirations.

With architect James McFadden making renovations to the former lunchroom and passenger platform, the eatery stands in the heart of West Washington Avenue's historic train depot and rates as a "dream project" for Altschul, Madison Magazine reported. The Mexican restaurant features such delicacies as fresh tortillas made in-house.

"The inspiration for Bandit really stemmed from a bunch of great experiences at Big Star while living in Chicago," Altschul said in a press release. "Great tacos on freshly made tortillas, great cocktails and a killer vibe."

For added ambiance, Altschul worked with local visual artist Stefan Matioc to create a Mexico City street art-inspired mural, Madison Magazine reported.

"I want folks to have a bright beautiful space to unwind and get lost in the special treat that is tortillas made from freshly ground masa," Altschul said.

Altschul is no stranger to the restaurant scene, also owning Gib's Bar and Grampa's Pizzeria, Madison Magazine reported. Bandit itself had existed as a pop-up in the past at the same location, which had previously been Porter, a coffee shop.

Altschul is committed to sourcing most of Bandit's ingredients from local producers, and he intends to grow a sustainable garden at the restaurant's entrance, Madison Magazine reported. The establishment will also feature coffee from Counter Culture Coffee, a sizable beer list and a slushy machine with Door County cherry daiquiris and frozen negronis.