Happy Joe’s Pizza & Ice Cream
Happy Joe’s Pizza & Ice Cream is opening a new franchised location in Mendota Heights, Minnesota this summer (2026). The brand currently has 35 domestic franchised locations throughout the Midwest and Southwest. Franchise inquiries can also be directed to Kat Davidson at KatD@drhnow.com or 678.485.8413.
Wingstop
Wingstop is opening a new location in NW Rochester, MN in the former GameStop space at 3780 NW Marketplace Dr, STE 109. A permit was filed with the City of Rochester for tenant improvement work including demolition, new interior partitions, new equipment, kitchen hood, and plumbing systems. No opening date has been announced yet.
Killen’s Irish Pub
130-seat Irish pub and bar opening in the former First Draft Tap Haus space in Minneapolis’ North Loop. Owner Peter Killen, former CEO of Cara Irish Pubs (Kieran’s Irish Pub, The Local), is importing custom fixtures from Ireland including barstools, chairs, tables, and stained glass. Menu will feature classic pub fare: fish and chips, burgers, […]
Berries & Bubbles Daytime Cafe
New breakfast and brunch cafe opening in a renovated former Denny’s building. Hours will be 7am-3pm. Seats 130-170 people, features a marble-topped bar and private party space. Menu focuses on organic, fresh ingredients with fruit-forward dishes and brunch cocktails. Owner expects to hire 40-50 employees. Construction and permitting still in progress as of article date.
Broadway Plaza Restaurant
Upscale restaurant with outdoor patio seating planned as part of the Broadway Plaza mixed-use development near I-94 in Monticello, MN. Project also includes a hotel, event center, and classics museum. City council approved a six-month extension to Nov. 25, 2026 for the final plat recording deadline. Developer is pursuing financing; construction expected to begin summer […]
Popeyes
Rochester’s first Popeyes, a 2,668 sq ft location near Apache Mall, is under construction by franchisee PN Restaurants (NJ-based). New white and teal design. Expected to open mid- to late October 2026. Will employ ~60 staff. A second Rochester location is planned for Chateau Circle area (Villa Road & 55th St NW) with construction targeted […]
Tuscany Italian Restaurant
Second location of Tuscany Italian Restaurant (first location in Fergus Falls, MN). Co-owned by Nexh Zeka and two cousins, originally from the Dallas, TX area. Menu includes lasagna, parmesan chicken, fettuccine, and lobster ravioli. Located at former site of A’BriTin Catering and Hospitality. Owner stated the restaurant will be open by end of May 2026.
YoYo Chicken
YoYo Chicken, a fried chicken and burger restaurant with locations in NY and NJ, is coming soon to the former Curiosi-Tea site on Commerce Drive in North Mankato, MN. Signs posted outside the location confirm the upcoming opening. No specific opening date has been announced yet.
Trailhead Cafe
New cafe at Theodore Wirth Park operated by Aki’s BreadHaus, featuring German-style baked goods, Broken Clock beer, and Curioso Coffee. Grand opening weekend planned for May 29-31.
Big Bore Cue Stop
Second location for Big Bore Barbecue, fast-casual concept focused on Texas-inspired wood-fired barbecue. Located in former McDonald’s site, will employ about 40 workers and feature drive-thru, seating for 65-75 guests.