The Station Taphouse and Eatery: A culinary journey rooted in history

Owners of The Station Tap House and Eatery Jesse Pierson and his fiancée, McKenzie Schmitz, have been remodeling the building while maintaining its historic charm.

McCOOK Neb. -The Station Taphouse and Eatery stands as a testament to community spirit, culinary innovation, and the rich history of the building it occupies. Formerly known as The Loop Brewing Company, this beloved local hangout has transformed under the ownership of Jesse Pierson and his fiancee, McKenzie Schmitz, who recently took the reins. With a focus on quality food and a commitment to local partnerships, they will continue to serve the community.

Pierson has been with the establishment since it opened: “I’ve been here 13 years; since its inception.” Before that, he worked in retail and at a movie theater. Pierson modestly shared that his leadership development was organic. “Since this place was growing, I just stepped up when they asked me to,” Pierson explains. His transition from starting as a cook to the manager to the part owner and now owner took time. “They kept a close watch on me but trusted me.”

Schmitz emphasizes the importance of his hard work in their success. Reminding him, “You are hardworking. You saw what needed to be done, so you stepped up and did it,” she says. Their dedication shines through in their management styles and in the innovative menu, which continues to evolve while preserving the community’s favorite dishes.

One unique aspect of The Station is the integration of McKenzie’s canning business, the Prairie Sage Canning Company. With a variety of products already featured on the menu – like her jams topping cheesecakes and blackberry barbecue sauce on the burnt ends burger – the couples’ shared passion for cooking and creative pairings will continue to be enjoyed by customers.

Their inspiration often comes from watching culinary shows together. “Honestly, we spend most of our nights watching the Food Network. We cook food, and then we go watch and get these crazy ideas,” McKenzie shares. Among the fun features of their menu is the “Stupid Pizza of the Week,” which keeps customers on their toes with its whimsical combinations. Pierson recalls one particularly outrageous iteration: “We had a pizza where the crust was just a slice of watermelon, topped with pickled red onions, feta cheese, and ham. It was ridiculous!” Such bold flavors and adventurous ideas showcase the couple’s willingness to experiment.

Community involvement is a cornerstone of The Station’s philosophy, reflected in the camaraderie among employees, many of whom have been with the restaurant for years. “I have a guy here who’s been working longer than I have. The camaraderie is great,” Pierson notes. The warm atmosphere invites guests to feel part of the family, fostering connections over good food and drinks.

As the couple prepares for plans – including a new beer tap and renovated bathrooms – they remain committed to sourcing locally and giving back to the community that has supported them through the years. The Station Taphouse and Eatery is not just a restaurant; it’s a gathering spot for friends, family, and neighbors, celebrating the best that McCook has to offer.

Visitors to the area should be sure to experience The Station’s culinary delights, where Jesse and McKenzie are ready to offer a warm welcome and the promise of unforgettable memories.