Flights to Suit Your Foodie Fancy

A “flight of fancy” is an idiom for something imaginative but unlikely to happen, but that is not what is happening in this case. The food and beverage scene in Brainerd is sure to suit all taste buds but here are a few fun flights to get the foodies started.

Flight of Cold Brew Coffee

Loco Espress Coffee House and Boutique, 1521 Northern Pacific Road, Brainerd, MN

Flight of cold brew coffees at Loco Espress, Brainerd, MN

Loco Espress Coffee House and Boutique is locally owned and sits in the historical Clock Tower building located in the Northern Pacific Center in Brainerd Minnesota. Upon entering Loco Espress, you experience rustic railroad charm, relaxing music, original artwork by owner Mary Tuomi, and wafts of coffee and other delicious aromas. As unique as its space, is the flight of cold brew coffee, which is an opportunity to experience five different types of iced cold brew with flavors and add-ins.

Flight of Soups

The Fort Steakhouse, 643 Front St, Fort Ripley, MN
Located just a few miles south of Brainerd and Baxter, MN, on Highway 371 in Fort Ripley, is a local gem known for its full-service, family friendly dining. The Fort also has a flight of soups where the diner can choose three 6-ounce servings of specialty soups like local favorites chicken dumpling, chicken wild rice, bacon cheeseburger, and cream of Reuben. The Fort is also known for a “grill your steak” experience on Friday and Saturday nights, made from dinners, and handmade burgers.

Flight of Craft Cocktails

5Rocks Distilling Co., 25 Washington Street NE, Brainerd, MN
5Rocks Distilling Co. is a family owned and operated micro distillery in the heart of Brainerd. The 5Rocks family is passionate about creating a legacy of products that reflect the spirit of Minnesota. Some of their products include vodka, bourbon, amaretto that are turned into fantastic craft drinks. Try their tasting flight which includes three 1-ounce samplers of 5Rocks Spirits, a starch palate cleanser, and sparkling water.

Flight of Wings

Notch 8 Chowhouse & Drinkery, 1511 Northern Pacific Road, Brainerd, MN
Tucked inside the historic Northern Pacific Railroad center is Notch 8 Chowhouse & Drinkery. The menu is loaded with casual favorites like pizza, pub-style bites, and comfort food. It also features a flight of crispy crunchy wings with Nashville hot, Frank’s Red Hot, Smokestack BBQ, Thai Ginger, Gochujang sauces.

Flight of Craft Beer

Jack Pine Brewery, 15593 Edgewood Dr, Baxter, MN
Born from the hard work of a homebrewer, Jack Pine Brewery was established as a nano-brewery in 2013 and grew into a full-scale brewery and taproom in 2017. Their goal is to bring patrons a quality brew from a wide spectrum of flavors. From light to dark, malty to hoppy, and even an award-winning pepper beer to spice things up, you’re bound to find something you like. Check out the taproom beer list online, or just stop in, and try a flight in search of a new favorite.