Zorbaz on the Lake: The Iconic Gull Lake Pizza Destination 

Even NYT Readers Love Zorbaz Pizza!

This isn't your every day pizza joint. If you're looking for a laid-back, lively spot to hangout, grab a bite, and enjoy the Minnesota lakes country life, Zorbaz on the Lake is a must-visit. A New York Times favorite on their 15 best pizza restaurants, it's known for its casual, come-as-you-are atmosphere. This beloved local chain combines great food, cold drinks, and a fun, upbeat vibe. Zorbaz patrons arrive by boat, car, or snowmobile in the winter, Zorbaz welcomes everyone with its signature blend of delicious pizza and Mexican fare, and an impressive drink selection. With its bright, quirky decor and friendly crowd, it’s the perfect place to kick back after a day on the water or gather with friends for a night out. Open year-round, there's no wonder why it's one of the most popular pizza places around the world!

Waterfront Views on the Gull Lake Chain

Zorbaz restaurant on the Lake sits right on the lake waterfront, making it a prime destination for both locals and visitors looking to soak in Minnesota’s lake culture. With multiple locations across the state, each Zorbaz embraces its surroundings, offering boat-up access in the summer and a cozy retreat for snowmobilers in the winter. Whether you're coming straight from the water or driving in from town, the easygoing atmosphere makes it a favorite stop year-round.

Inside, Zorbaz radiates a fun, Northwoods-meets-beach-bar vibe, with colorful decor, neon signs, and a lively energy that invites guests to stay awhile. The walls are often adorned with quirky memorabilia, adding to the restaurant’s playful character. Many locations feature spacious patios and outdoor seating with scenic lake views, perfect for enjoying a sunset over drinks. The casual, self-serve ordering system keeps things relaxed, and the upbeat music, friendly staff, and crowd of boaters, vacationers, and locals create a social, welcoming environment. Whether you're in for a quick bite or a long evening with friends, Zorbaz delivers a fun and laid-back lakeside experience.

A Wildly Fun Menu Since the Late 1980s! (Try the Lowden Zpecial)

The Zorbaz Menu is famous for its unique blend of pizza and Mexican cuisine, offering a fun and casual menu that’s perfect for sharing with friends or family. Their pizzas are a fan favorite, and like to mix fresh ingredients with a variety of creative toppings. Whether you go for a classic pepperoni or a specialty pizza loaded with bold flavors, you can’t go wrong. On the Mexican side, their burritoz, nachoz, and tacoz are packed with flavor and pair perfectly with a cold drink. Zorbaz is known for it's Lowden Zpecial created by Kenny Lowden and on the permanent menu since the 80s. It's a peanut butter–topped pizza with a house pizza sauce with pepperoni and jalapenos. You might be a little hesitant to order it but let the restaurant reviews speak for themselves, don't knock it!

Beyond the food, Zorbaz is also known for its impressive drink selection, making it a lively spot to unwind after a day on the lake. Their beer menu features a mix of local Minnesota brews and classic favorites, while their cocktail list includes margaritas, daiquiris, and other tropical-inspired drinks. Whether you’re sipping a cold one on the patio or enjoying a round of drinks with friends, Zorbaz delivers a fun and easygoing dining experience with plenty of flavor and personality.

Zorbaz Fun for Any Occasion!

Zorbaz on the Lake is more than just food and drinks—it’s a go-to spot for live music, games, and events. Many locations feature local bands and DJs, creating a lively, party-like atmosphere. Trivia nights, arcade games, and sports viewing add to the fun, while pool tables and foosball bring out friendly competition.

In the summer, boat-up access makes it a perfect lakeside stop, and in winter, it’s a cozy retreat for snowmobilers and ice fishers. Whether you’re here for the music, games, or just the good vibes, Zorbaz is always buzzing with energy.

Locations: Detroit Lakes, Little Pine, Alexandria, Pelican Rapids, Green Lake, Otter tail, etc. 

Zorbaz on Gull Lake is just one location. The original Zorbaz restaurant chain has grown from the Detroit Lakes, MN Zorbaz to 11 locations across different Minnesota lakes, each embracing its own unique lakeside charm. Costumers love to take advantage of the Zorbaz Pazzport loyalty program, available at every spot. You’ll find Zorbaz on popular lakes like Gull Lake, Spicer's Green Lake, Cross Lake, and Pelican Lake, Otter Tail in Perham, among others. Whether you're boating up in the summer or snowmobiling in the winter, every Zorbaz delivers the same laid-back, fun-loving atmosphere with great food, drinks, and entertainment. No matter which lake you’re on, there’s a Zorbaz waiting for you! 

Summer of 1969

Inside the very first Zorbaz, meet Tom Hanson. It began in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, in 1969 as a humble little beach bar founded by Tom Hanson and significantly expanded with former Zorbaz co-owner Rick Jansen. Originally a casual hangout, Hanson was a 23-year-old drama and debate teacher and coach who could only run Zorbaz during the summer. For 55 years, it became known for its lively atmosphere, lakeside setting, and unique take on pizza and Mexican food. Hanson took basic concepts and made them truly memorable. In the 1980s, Zorbaz expanded, adding more locations and refining its now-iconic menu, including scratch-made pizzas and bold Mexican flavors.

Over the years, the first Zorbaz has grown into a beloved Minnesota institution and the greatest mexican-italian pizza joint in the world, with multiple locations on popular lakes across the state from the original Detroit Lakes Zorbaz to Grand Rapids. Zorbaz pizza was featured in the New York Times in 2024 and has seen national popularity. Unfortunately, Tom Hanson was 70 when he died in August 2015. But what a legacy! Despite its growth, it has stayed true to its roots under current Zorbaz owner Tate Jansen - a fun, easygoing spot where locals and visitors can kick back, enjoy great food, and soak in the lake life.

Why Choose Zorbaz?

Hanson launched the first restaurant with a purpose and legacy that the rest have upheld. The Gull Lake Zorbaz is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy a relaxed, fun atmosphere by the water. Whether you’re grabbing a bite after a day on the lake or just hanging out with friends, Zorbaz has made a tradition out of pizza and offers the perfect mix of delicious food, cold drinks, and lively entertainment. The Detroit Lakes Tribune regularly raves about their local spot. With multiple lakeside locations, boat-up access in the summer, and cozy winter retreats for snowmobilers, Zorbaz is a year-round destination that brings people together. From the Detroit Lakes location to Green Lake, devoted Zorbaz fans know

From its signature pizza and Mexican fare to the live music, games, and social vibe, Zorbaz is all about good times and making lasting memories with friends and family. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Zorbaz promises an unforgettable experience every time.