🍽️ What to Order

Expert recommendations based on quality, value, and visitor feedback

Item Price
Signature Smash Burger
Juicy double-patty burger with American cheese, special sauce, lettuce, and pickles on a toasted bun. Served with kettle chips.
 $9.50
Loaded Nachos
House-made tortilla chips piled high with seasoned beef, melted cheese, jalapeños, salsa, and sour cream.
 $8.00
Classic Cheese Curds
Wisconsin-style battered cheese curds, fried until golden and served with ranch.
 $7.00
Pretzel Bites
Warm, soft pretzel bites with zesty beer cheese dip.
 $6.50
Free Popcorn
Bottomless baskets of classic buttery popcorn—complimentary with any drink or game card purchase.
 Free
Rotating Craft Beer (Pint)
Selection of local and regional brews on tap. Ask about current offerings.
 $5.00–$7.00
Classic Cocktails
Old Fashioned, Moscow Mule, and house specialties with a playful arcade twist.
 $7.00–$9.00
Soda & Non-Alcoholic Options
Cola, lemonade, iced tea, and more—family-friendly and affordable.
 $2.00–$3.00

Menu Highlights: Patrick’s Arcade Bar’s food menu is built for casual, shareable fun—think bar classics with a Wisconsin twist. The Signature Smash Burger is a runaway favorite, praised for its fresh patties and flavor-packed sauce. Locals rave about the Classic Cheese Curds—crispy, gooey, and authentically Midwestern. Loaded Nachos and Pretzel Bites round out the menu, making it easy to snack between rounds of pinball or Pac-Man. Free popcorn is a beloved touch, and it’s not just a gimmick: it’s fresh, salty, and keeps the arcade energy going.

Beverage Program: The bar rotates a solid lineup of Wisconsin craft beers (Lake Mills Brewing, New Glarus, and more), alongside classic cocktails and affordable domestics. For non-drinkers or younger guests, there’s a full range of soft drinks. Prices are competitive—pints start at $5, cocktails at $7, with happy hour specials most weeknights.

Dietary & Allergen Info: While the menu leans comfort-food heavy, staff are happy to accommodate basic dietary needs—vegetarian options are available (nachos and pretzel bites without meat), but vegan/gluten-free choices are limited. Cheese curds and most fried items contain dairy and gluten. For allergies, staff are knowledgeable and will double-check, but cross-contamination is possible due to the small kitchen setup. Nutrition details aren’t posted, but portions are shareable and on the indulgent side.

Practical Details: Patrick’s Arcade Bar is dine-in only—no delivery, and takeout is limited to drinks and select snacks. No reservations—seating is first-come, first-served, but turnover is brisk except during weekend peak hours. Payment is easy: all major credit cards and contactless payments are accepted; cash is welcome but not required. Tipping follows standard bar/restaurant customs (15–20% is appreciated for table or bar service).

✨ The Experience

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Atmosphere: Nostalgic & Lively
Step inside and you’re hit with a wave of ‘80s and ‘90s nostalgia—neon lights, the hum of pinball, and upbeat background music. The vibe is energetic yet approachable, striking a perfect balance between playful and relaxed. Arcade machines are the décor, and the buzz of friendly competition is ever-present.
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Service: Friendly & Fast
Staff consistently earn high praise for being genuinely welcoming and attentive. Orders are taken at the bar or table, and food comes out quickly—even during busy times. Bartenders are happy to make recommendations and chat about both the menu and the games.
👥
Crowd: All Ages, All Occasions
You’ll find a mix of families, friend groups, couples, and solo gamers—especially after school and on weekends. Early evenings are family-friendly; later hours (especially Fridays and Saturdays) skew more adult, with a lively but not rowdy crowd. Noise levels are moderate—expect a cheerful din, punctuated by arcade sound effects.
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Seating & Layout: Flexible & Social
The open floor plan makes it easy to mingle or camp out with your group. High-top tables, bar seating, and a few cozy booths are spread throughout. There’s plenty of room to move between games and tables, and seating is designed for both quick bites and longer hangs.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Is Patrick’s Arcade Bar family-friendly? Can kids play the games?
Absolutely! Kids are welcome with a parent or guardian until 9 PM, and there are plenty of age-appropriate games. After 9 PM, the crowd shifts more adult, and minors may not be permitted—call ahead if you’re planning a later visit with younger guests.
Do I need quarters for the arcade games, or is there a card/token system?
Most games operate on a classic token system, available for purchase at the bar or dedicated kiosks. Some machines also accept quarters. Staff are happy to make change or explain how to load up your game card for multi-game units.
Can I host a party or reserve space for a group event?
While Patrick’s doesn’t take reservations for regular seating, they do accommodate group events and parties with advance notice. Contact the bar directly for details on group packages, food platters, and game credits for birthdays, team outings, or celebrations.

📖 About Patrick’s Arcade Bar

Patrick’s Arcade Bar opened its doors in mid-2023 and quickly became a downtown Lake Mills staple, blending the timeless appeal of classic arcade gaming with the social energy of a modern neighborhood bar. The brainchild of local owners passionate about community and nostalgia, Patrick’s was designed to fill a unique niche—serving as both a gathering spot for friends and families, and a destination for gamers of all ages. The lineup of retro and new arcade cabinets, pinball, and quirky claw machines is deliberately curated to spark joy and friendly competition. Weekly events like darts tournaments and themed game nights keep things fresh and foster a true sense of belonging. With its approachable menu, affordable drinks, and all-welcoming vibe, Patrick’s Arcade Bar stands out as a place where memories are made—whether you’re reliving your childhood or creating new traditions in Lake Mills.