MINNEAPOLIS — Restaurants across Minneapolis, from longtime neighborhood staples to newer concepts, are facing mounting financial pressure, and for some, the strain has already proven too much.
In 2026 alone, well-known establishments like D’Amico and Sons and The Lowry have announced closures after years of serving the community. Industry leaders warn these losses are part of a broader issue. Hospitality Minnesota recently said restaurants statewide are nearing a “breaking point,” pointing to a mix of lingering pandemic recovery challenges, tariffs, immigration enforcement impacts, economic uncertainty, and new state policies such as paid family leave and rising minimum wages.
Following Operation Metro Surge, Minneapolis allocated $7 million in aid for small businesses, with more than half directed toward restaurant license fee relief. Still, many owners say more help is needed…