- Attraction: The Mineshaft
- Location: 22 N Main St, Hartford, WI 53027
- Industry: Restaurant
- Website: https://mineshaftrestaurant.com/
The Mineshaft in Hartford transforms the typical dinner-and-a-movie concept into something far more spectacular, where families can feast on award-winning fish fry while kids lose themselves in 5,000 square feet of high-tech arcade games.
What started as “The Commodore” cocktail lounge in 1975 has evolved into Wisconsin’s largest restaurant and bar complex.
The Masters family purchased the establishment and spent decades expanding it seven different times, culminating in today’s underground mine shaft-themed entertainment destination that serves over half a million guests annually. This isn’t just dinner out—it’s an experience that captures the essence of Wisconsin’s welcoming hospitality and love for hearty comfort food.
Signature Menu Highlights
The Famous Fish Fry: You’ll discover why The Mineshaft serves over 2,000 dinners every Friday with their legendary all-you-can-eat fish fry. Available both Wednesdays and Fridays, this Wisconsin tradition features your choice of cod, perch, shrimp, or poor man’s lobster, all perfectly crispy and served with hot fries and fresh coleslaw. The portions are generous, the batter light and flaky, and the value unbeatable.
Award-Winning Mozzarella Sticks: These aren’t your typical mozzarella sticks—they’re hand-rolled, jumbo-sized cheese creations that resemble crispy egg rolls filled with melted mozzarella. Five hefty sticks arrive golden brown and stretchy hot, served with zesty marinara sauce. The homemade preparation shows in every gooey, satisfying bite that sets them apart from standard frozen versions.
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Keep Exploring →Pizza & Pitcher Specials: The pizza here earns consistent praise for its crispy crust that maintains its structure, generous toppings, and perfectly melted cheese. Thursday night brings two-for-one pizza deals, while the Family Pizza Special includes an 18-inch pizza, pitcher of beer or soda, and 100 game room credits for just $44.99—easily feeding a family of four.
Mexican & Italian Favorites: The extensive menu spans multiple cuisines with standout items like their homemade spaghetti with meat sauce, chicken parmesan with Italian seasonings, and sizeable Mexican burritos stuffed with your choice of proteins. The Serrano shrimp pasta brings authentic heat with fresh jalapeños and signature red pepper sauce.
Breakfast Buffet: Saturday mornings feature an all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet for $9.99, while kids 3 and under eat free from the children’s menu Sunday through Thursday. The variety includes everything from fluffy pancakes to hearty omelets.
The Million-Dollar Game Room Experience
America’s Largest Arcade: The upstairs game room spans 5,000 square feet and houses over 70 high-tech interactive games. From classic arcade favorites to the latest entertainment technology, there’s something for every age group. The space feels like a wonderland for kids while remaining engaging enough for adults to enjoy alongside their children.
Private Party Rooms: Eight separate private party rooms within the game room make this the perfect spot for birthday celebrations, team outings, or family gatherings. The rooms come free with party packages, and you can even order custom cakes from their on-site bakery.
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Discover MoreGaming Value: While tokens are priced comparably to other arcade establishments, the sheer variety of games and regular promotional offers like summer specials add significant value. You can even use tickets to purchase slushies and sodas—a unique touch that adds practical value to your gaming experience.
Atmosphere & Entertainment
Mine Shaft Theming: The restaurant’s underground mine shaft aesthetic creates a unique dining atmosphere that feels both rustic and spacious. With seating for 550 guests across multiple dining areas, the space never feels cramped despite its popularity.
Live Entertainment: Thursday and Friday nights bring karaoke that’s earned recognition as some of the best in Wisconsin. DJ music plays Wednesday through Friday from 9 PM to close, while a massive 109-inch HD screen broadcasts all major sporting events. The stage and dance floor area adds another dimension to the entertainment options.
Five Full Bars: Multiple bar areas throughout the restaurant ensure you’re never far from a cold beverage. The drink menu features creative cocktails like their signature “Cowboy Jim’s Bootlicker” served in a boot glass, along with an extensive selection of domestic and imported beers including Wisconsin favorites like Spotted Cow.
Other Considerations
Family-Friendly Pricing: The Mineshaft positions itself as one of the area’s most affordable family dining destinations. Large portions at reasonable prices mean excellent value, especially with specials like Wednesday and Friday fish fries, half-price appetizers and drinks during happy hour, and free kids’ meals during weeknight dining.
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Keep Exploring →Parking & Logistics: With such a popular destination, parking can be challenging during peak hours. Street parking is available, plus there’s additional parking behind the restaurant. Arriving early, especially for Friday fish fry, helps avoid both parking hassles and longer wait times.
Best Times to Visit: Early dinner around 5 PM helps you avoid crowds while still enjoying the full experience. The restaurant gets particularly busy on Friday nights for fish fry and weekends for the game room, so plan accordingly if you prefer a quieter dining experience.
Large Group Accommodations: The massive seating capacity makes this an ideal spot for large family gatherings, birthday parties, or group outings. The combination of food variety, entertainment options, and private party spaces handles groups of virtually any size.
Hours & Availability: The restaurant operates seven days a week with extended weekend hours until 2 AM on Fridays and Saturdays. The game room opens at 3 PM on weekdays and 10 AM on weekends, though no one under 21 is allowed on the premises after 10:30 PM, even with parents.
The Mineshaft
📍 22 N Main St, Hartford, WI 53027
