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Pimento on the Lake shuts down after three years

Nick Halter

Rounded building with a large oval sign reading "PIMENTO" on a pale facade and the phrase "Authentic Jamaican Kitchen." Curved wood siding, clear blue sky, and a mural along the lower wall. — Photo: Audrey Kennedy/Axios Twin Cities

Pimento on the Lake has ceased operations at the lakeside Bde Maka Ska pavilion after only three years of serving Jamaican fare.

Why it matters: The closure marks a major flop for the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board, which spent $6.5 million rebuilding the pavilion following a fire only to see the operator it selected quickly struggle with declining sales, legal trouble and poor reviews.

Driving the news: Pimento posted Monday that its agreement with the Park Board was terminated. The closure was first reported by Southwest Voices.

The message said the Nicollet Avenue location remains open while the company works on "stabilizing Pimento for a sustainable future."

Flashback: Owner Derek "Tomme" Beevas faces multiple lawsuits from banks and a former business partner, alleging unpaid debts between $1 million and $1.5 million combined.

Because he fell behind on his taxes, liquor distributors were not allowed to sell him wine and beer, and by July the stand no longer had alcohol to serve.

What we're watching: How and when the Park Board picks a new vendor for this well-trafficked spot on the lake.

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Pimento on the Lake shuts down after three years

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