Pizza Ranch — Restaurant in Dubuque

I'm struggling with this review of our experience tonight. First of all, my kids did enjoy themselves and all in all we had a good time. I would love to visit again and sincerely hope that some of the things I mention will be addressed. This place has so much potential. There are only 2 other places in Dubuque that I am aware of that have a game area like this and one has those foam pits that are disgusting where we always end up sick within a day of visiting and the other is in a hotel and has no food or anything so I would really love to see this place become a little better. There were 4 adults and 2 kids (8 and 12) and we paid almost $100 for the buffet and drinks (and an additional $50 on game cards). For what you get, I'd definitely say that's on the high side, though if there were a few improvements (see below) I don't think I'd be as upset at the price. I'd suggest offering "packages" that bundle play time for a cheaper price when bought together with the buffet. Also, for new comers, more sinage or communication on how it works, pay at register, sit anywhere, always use new plate etc. I didn't notice anything like this and felt very frustrated trying to figure it out on my own. Doesn't help that I encountered nothing but employees who would rather have their nails pulled out with pliers than be at work and they were very obviously bothered by the fact that I would ask anything of them. That brings me to my next issue, this place was just gross. The floors were covered in food that had been ground into the floors. I've worked in food service, there is no excuse for this, EVER! Also, so much deffered maintenance on the building and facilities. Not sure if they own or rent, but broken toilets, leaking vents, looks like it hasn't been painted in years. The food, what we ate was actually really good! I loved the selection offered pizza, pasta, fried chicken with sides and a small salad bar, which would be plenty except I didn't even get to try the pasta salads or whatever they were because they were empty on the salad bar all 3 times I checked. Also, the ice cream bar is always my favorite at a buffet, but it was nothing but vanilla soft serve and a cup. No chocolate, no cones, and no toppings. This could very easily be upgraded with one of those gallon jugs of chocolate syrup with a pump and a few toppings, sprinkles, or something, anything to upgrade dessert a little. Lastly, the big draw for us was the arcade and there were 9 machines out of order and the card filler was out of order as well. The young lady at the desk was missing half the time, very impatient with some of the kids struggling to pick their prizes (which should be the fun part). She kept disappearing and when she was there was sitting down and on her phone. She didn't greet anyone who walked up just stood there staring at us, I had to ask her if she was ready to help us. Very unprofessional and unpleasant. This place seems to be run by an absentee owner and a manager who just doesn't care. It could be so much better. Too bad corporate isn't more involved, it really...

Have lived here four years and finally came in tonight. Came to the counter and let them know it was over first time ever. One employee started to tells us about their place and another one butted in. Felt bad for the first employee. Paid and then turned to find a place to sit. Almost turned around and walked out. After how disappointing the uncleared tables, trash and pieces of food on the floor. There were staff standing around and one young staff member just grabbing plates off tables where people were eating. Not an excuse me or may I take these plates. No personality what so ever. I said nothing to my family at that point so we sat down and headed to the buffet area. We did get to order a special pizza with no red sauce due to health issues. The food was very tasty and delicious. Salad bar good. Chicken very good. Beverage area good. Visited the game area. Pretty clean. Employee was on her phone the whole time. Not sure who is running this place but I believe you are scaring business away due to the lack of cleanliness!!!! Get everyone involved to clean up during their entire shift. I rate you cleanliness a 2star. Food 4 star. Staff a poor 1. Let me know if you make a better plan to clean your place up and I will visit again and re-rate your business. For now I would recommend people to order out or bring your own broom or vacuum cleaner. I know you can do better Pizza Ranch...

My 5 yr old asked to go to out for Pizza and some arcade games. Living 65 mins away I agreed for a Sunday evening dinner and family fun according their website. Never again! I wasted almost $90 ($50 w me being nice enough to tip your underpaid teenage staff) on the dirtiest restaurant I’ve even been in, my kid threw up at the table after a few bites and noticed hair in the food. The tables were disgusting and sauce smeared on the walls. I said ok let’s go play games and get McDonald’s after this. Bigger mistake!!! Machine was down to purchase a game card, the attendant said how much do you want on a card? I asked what are the packages or how much for a certain amount of credits. I got “I don’t know, how much do you want?” I put $40 on the game card. Should have left after the food and filth but trying to turn the night around for my child. Half of the arcade games are out of service and no manager to speak to at 5:30 pm on a Sunday evening. Save your money because even if a manager was present I’d probably be offered a gift card for my wasted $90 which I’d decline because we will never go back. I get it’s a deal for some who don’t care but really should have spent it locally and not patronize this establishment. Hope you have better luck going to this place or are fine with low standards and like...