From the original Orange Custard Chocolate Chip, to their new feature flavor Pattersons’ #1 Triple Chocolate, the Babcock Dairy has treated the Madison area to the highest quality ice cream and custard possible for 75 years, turning students, alumni, school tour groups, and locals-in-the-know into devoted fans since 1951. They now have an opportunity to top the list for best ice cream in Madison.

The Best of Madison is Madison Magazine’s long-running readers’ poll, determining what the community considers the best businesses, people, places, and experiences in the Madison area. The Babcock Dairy has been a nominee in the Ice Cream/Custard category many times over the years, winning silver and bronze medals consistently.

“It would be great to win gold for our 75th birthday,” says Kari Backes, manager of Babcock Dairy Store. “We hope to be recognized for our years of history making and scooping ice cream in Babcock Hall as the top winner in 2026.” 

Voting is ongoing through June 30. Winners will be announced in October 2026.