Colonel Hart's: A true neighborhood hangout

Urban legend has it that back in 1985, the founder of Colonel Hart's had departed his previous place of employment, Major Goolsby's downtown, and wanted to "move up in the ranks." So when he opened his bar in Wauwatosa, he named it partially for the park it overlooks (Hart Park) and partially to rise from a major to a colonel.

Shannon Russell, who now co-owns Colonel Hart's with Pat Modl, isn't sure how accurate that story is, but having literally grown up in the establishment she now co-owns and manages, she knows that what matters is that this neighborhood bar and grill feels like home to so many Tosans.

"My parents used to bring me here after basketball games, when I was a kid," Russell reminisces. "This probably isn't what they had in mind, but after working here for 12 years, I figured it was time to make an investment."

Colonel Hart's is the epitome of a neighborhood bar. When you walk in, it's hard to miss the sports memorabilia covering the walls, tables and even the ceiling.

Along with a nice selection of local brews and beverages, Colonel Hart's also has a tiny, yet productive kitchen. Some of the most popular menu items include The Reuben Sandwich ($8), The Courage Burger — a double cheeseburger with bacon ($9) — and the Homemade Pizza ($10 and up, but half-price on weekends.)

"People frequently comment on how good our food is," Russell adds.

But what makes Colonel Hart's a success is the friendly, comfortable atmosphere. Or, as Russell describes it: "It's like everybody's living room."

The Basics

NAME: Colonel Hart's

ADDRESS: 7342 W. State St.

PHONE: (414) 476-3070

WEBSITE: ColonelHarts.com

FARE: pub fare

HOURS: 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. weekdays, 11 a.m. to 2:30 a.m. Friday and Saturday. Kitchen open until 10 p.m. nightly; pizza available all the time

PRICE RANGE: $5 to $10 (approximate)

RESERVATIONS: no

HANDICAP ACCESS: yes, but not bathrooms

GLUTEN-FREE OPTIONS: no

LOOKING TO 'GRAB A BITE'?

"Grab a Bite" is an informal look at the food scene in the Wauwatosa, Brookfield and Elm Grove area by freelance writer Karen Waldkirch. Whether you're looking for a place for a date night or a casual spot for lunch, Waldkirch will be out and about scouting eateries for you. If you have a suggestion for a column, email her at kmwaldkirch@yahoo.com.