The Kegs Drive-In

The Kegs Drive-In is a novelty restaurant in Grand Forks where two large wooden barrel structures serve as the main design elements, connected by a rectangular service section. The building sits at 901 North 5th Street and was built to function as a drive-in establishment where customers could order and eat from their vehicles.

William Harry Muzzy built the original barrel structures in 1935 as part of a regional chain of root beer stands. The building was relocated to its current location in 1946, where it has remained as a surviving example of mid-20th century drive-in culture.

The place represents a distinctive dining culture where cars and food merged together after the 1940s, becoming a social gathering spot for the local community. The barrel design itself became a symbol of this casual, car-centered approach to eating out.

The restaurant operates seasonally during warmer months when drive-in dining is most enjoyable. Service is casual and informal, with staff delivering food directly to vehicles, so you can eat at your own pace without leaving your car.

The two large wooden barrels were not merely decorative but originally served as actual storage containers for root beer that was made on-site. This functional purpose gives the building a genuine connection to its original business operations beyond simple visual novelty.

Location: Grand Forks

Inception: 1946

Architectural style: novelty architecture

GPS coordinates: 47.93000,-97.04434

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:41