Irwin North

The Marquette Neighborhood is Madison's most iconic and unique neighborhood. When other Wisconsin residents cite Madison as "78 square miles surrounded by reality" they are likely thinking of Willy Street. Its bohemian culture is focused on green issues and politics down to its well worn bike paths and organic, locally sourced restaurants and CSAs. Perhaps there's no greater emblem of the neighborhood's mix of old and new than the Willy Street Co-op, the natural-foods supermarket on the main drag of Williamson Street. Founded in 1974, the Madison icon is on the one hand a countercultural holdover, a redoubt for organic foods and communitarian ideals. Still, the co-op is smartly managed, and its emphasis on local, sustainable agriculture makes it a trendsetter.