Country Steve
- May 30, 2023
- 3 min read

Notch 8 Chow House and Drinkery: Where Pizza and Railroad History Converge | Brainerd, MN

Updated: May 31, 2023

This summer, we stumbled upon a hidden gem called Notch 8 Chow House and Drinkery, and it has quickly become our go-to spot for delicious pizzas. Nestled in the Northern Pacific Center, this unique establishment boasts a captivating atmosphere that pays homage to the rich history of railroads in the area. Since its opening in June 2021, Notch 8 Chow House and Drinkery has been charming visitors with its delectable menu, inviting ambiance, and a nod to the throttle position of a train going full speed—the inspiration behind its name.

The Atmosphere:

As soon as you step foot inside Notch 8 Chow House and Drinkery, you'll be enveloped by its intriguing ambiance. The decor tastefully showcases the area's railroad heritage, making it a must-visit spot for history enthusiasts. Whether you're a railroad aficionado or simply appreciate a distinct setting, Notch 8 Chow House and Drinkery delivers on both fronts. (Outdoor seating is also available)

The Ordering Experience:

When you arrive at Notch 8 Chow House and Drinkery, grab a menu and head to the counter to place your order. The laid-back approach allows you to peruse the menu at your own pace, ensuring you choose the perfect pizza to satisfy your cravings. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, ready to offer recommendations if you're unsure about what to try.

The Culinary Delights:

Notch 8 Chow House and Drinkery takes pride in crafting their pizzas with the utmost care and attention to detail. Each day, they prepare fresh dough, resulting in a perfect foundation for their mouthwatering creations. Homemade sauces and sausage further elevate the flavors, showcasing their commitment to quality.

On our first visit, we followed the advice of locals and the bartender and ordered the Wild Mushroom & Sausage Pizza. This delightful creation combines Stout beer sausage, house-made Italian sausage, sautéed wild mushrooms, fresh herbs, and a white wine cream sauce. The explosion of flavors left us in awe, and we couldn't help but appreciate the craftsmanship behind every bite.

During our second visit, we decided to explore the menu further and opted for the Nick's Friggen' ZA 2.0. This unconventional pizza features dill pickles, cream cheese, ham, dill-spiked ranch seasoning, and a white wine cream sauce. The unique combination of ingredients surprised us in the best possible way, showcasing Notch 8 Chow House and Drinkery's willingness to experiment and push boundaries.

In addition to their exceptional pizzas, Notch 8 Chow House and Drinkery offers a great selection of local beers on tap. Pairing your pizza with a refreshing craft beer further enhances the overall experience and adds a local touch to your visit.

Beyond Pizzas:

While pizzas steal the show at Notch 8 Chow House and Drinkery, the menu offers a few surprises. We had the pleasure of trying their Sour Cream and Chive Tots as a side dish, and they were nothing short of fantastic. Bursting with flavor, these tots perfectly complemented our pizzas and left us craving more.

Recommendations for Your Next Visit:

Based on a local's suggestion, we plan to indulge in the All Aboard Wing Flight on our next visit. With an array of flavors to choose from, this promises to be a tantalizing addition to our Notch 8 Chow House and Drinkery experience. The anticipation only adds to our excitement for what lies ahead.

The Hospitality:

Notch 8 Chow House and Drinkery prides itself on excellent service and a welcoming atmosphere. The staff members are attentive, ensuring you feel at ease from the moment you enter until the time you leave. Their warm and friendly approach enhances the overall dining experience, making you feel like a cherished guest.

Stay in the Loop:

To keep up with the latest pizza creations and specials, be sure to follow Notch 8 Chow House and Drinkery on Facebook. By doing so, you'll be the first to know about the newest pizzas and exciting offers.

If you're a pizza lover or have an appreciation for the history of railroads, we highly recommend heading down to Notch 8 Chow House and Drinkery. Indulge in their delicious pizzas, explore their diverse menu, and soak in the unique atmosphere of the Northern Pacific Center. Notch 8 Chow House and Drinkery is a true hidden gem where pizza and railroad history converge, leaving you craving more with each visit.

Location: 1551 NORTHERN PACIFIC ROAD | BRAINERD, MINNESOTA

Hours: