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"Mastermind" of Minnesota child meal fraud gets nearly 42 years in Feeding Our Future case

"Mastermind" of largest COVID fraud  scheme gets 41 years

Prosecutors say Aimee Bock was at the center of a scheme to steal over $240 million from a federal program.

Politics & Policy

A judge has ordered the Minnesota &quot;<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="mastermind" data-vars-click-url="https://www.justice.gov/usao-mn/pr/federal-jury-finds-feeding-our-future-mastermind-and-co-defendant-guilty-250-million" data-vars-content-id="12cfb3bf-ee7e-4db1-b635-cfde9213cf92" data-vars-headline="&quot;Mastermind&quot; of Minnesota child meal fraud gets nearly 42 years in Feeding Our Future case" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.justice.gov/usao-mn/pr/federal-jury-finds-feeding-our-future-mastermind-and-co-defendant-guilty-250-million" target="_blank">mastermind</a>&quot; in the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="nation&#x27;s largest pandemic fraud case" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2022/09/21/feeding-our-future-indictment-minnesota" data-vars-content-id="12cfb3bf-ee7e-4db1-b635-cfde9213cf92" data-vars-headline="&quot;Mastermind&quot; of Minnesota child meal fraud gets nearly 42 years in Feeding Our Future case" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2022/09/21/feeding-our-future-indictment-minnesota" target="_self">nation&#x27;s largest pandemic fraud case</a> to serve 41.5 years in prison — the harshest sentence to date in connection with the Feeding Our Future fraud scheme.Why it matters: Prosecutors say former Feeding Our Future executive director <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Aimee Bock" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/05/21/aimee-bock-sentencing-feeding-our-future-pandemic-child-meals-fraud-minnesota" data-vars-content-id="12cfb3bf-ee7e-4db1-b635-cfde9213cf92" data-vars-headline="&quot;Mastermind&quot; of Minnesota child meal fraud gets nearly 42 years in Feeding Our Future case" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/05/21/aimee-bock-sentencing-feeding-our-future-pandemic-child-meals-fraud-minnesota" target="_self">Aimee Bock</a> was at the center of a scheme to steal more than $240 million from a federally funded child meals program during the pandemic. <ul><li>The case sparked intense scrutiny of the Walz administration&#x27;s oversight of state-run programs and fueled broader <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="concerns about fraud under his watch." data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/06/minnesota-fraud-cases-timeline" data-vars-content-id="12cfb3bf-ee7e-4db1-b635-cfde9213cf92" data-vars-headline="&quot;Mastermind&quot; of Minnesota child meal fraud gets nearly 42 years in Feeding Our Future case" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/06/minnesota-fraud-cases-timeline" target="_self">concerns about fraud under his watch.</a></li></ul>

In Minnesota's express toll lanes, scofflaws nearly outnumber E-ZPasses

The growing violation rate denies the system toll revenues it needs to pay for itself.

Transit

MnDOT&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="E-ZPass system" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2025/03/25/mn-ez-pass-scam-text-warning" data-vars-content-id="28673455-3aef-46a8-a71e-a77c54027b48" data-vars-headline="In Minnesota&#x27;s express toll lanes, scofflaws nearly outnumber E-ZPasses" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2025/03/25/mn-ez-pass-scam-text-warning" target="_self">E-ZPass system</a> has a scofflaw problem. Nearly half of the vehicles use the express tolling lanes without permission, according to the latest quarterly report.Why it matters: Aside from being unfair, the rising violation rate threatens to undermine the main goal of E-ZPass — managing congestion — while denying the system the toll revenues it needs to pay for itself.Stunning stats: MnDOT estimated that 29% of vehicles using the lanes had neither a passenger nor an E-ZPass tag in FY2024, according to the annual report for that year.<ul><li>But <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="more recent field observations" data-vars-click-url="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/28096401-minnesota-department-of-transportation-mndot-2025-q4-e-zpass-report/" data-vars-content-id="28673455-3aef-46a8-a71e-a77c54027b48" data-vars-headline="In Minnesota&#x27;s express toll lanes, scofflaws nearly outnumber E-ZPasses" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/28096401-minnesota-department-of-transportation-mndot-2025-q4-e-zpass-report/" target="_blank">more recent field observations</a> suggest that vehicle &quot;violation rates&quot; have crept up across the system. On I-35W in the south metro, they&#x27;re now pushing past 50%.</li></ul><div><figure><div id="av-hermesv2/2026-05-06-2301-share-of-vehicles-LO9HZ" style="max-width:100%" data-vars-category="embed" data-vars-sub-category="axios-visual" data-vars-asset-id="av-hermesv2/2026-05-06-2301-share-of-vehicles-LO9HZ" data-vars-iframe-src="https://graphics.axios.com/hermesv2/2026-05-06-2301-share-of-vehicles/index.html" class="gtmView"><img alt="A bar chart that shows quarterly E-ZPass lane violation rates by corridor for October to December 2025. Rates range from 32.3% on I-394 from Minneapolis to Wayzata to 52.6% on I-35W from Minneapolis to Burnsville. I-35E posts 45.7%, and I-35W from Roseville to Blaine reaches 44.1%." class="axios-visual-newsletter-fallback-image" src="https://graphics.axios.com/hermesv2/2026-05-06-2301-share-of-vehicles/fallbacks/2026-05-06-2301-share-of-vehicles-fallback.png" width="1200" height="788"/><img alt="A bar chart that shows quarterly E-ZPass lane violation rates by corridor for October to December 2025. Rates range from 32.3% on I-394 from Minneapolis to Wayzata to 52.6% on I-35W from Minneapolis to Burnsville. I-35E posts 45.7%, and I-35W from Roseville to Blaine reaches 44.1%." class="axios-visual-apple-fallback-image" src="https://graphics.axios.com/hermesv2/2026-05-06-2301-share-of-vehicles/fallbacks/2026-05-06-2301-share-of-vehicles-apple.png" width="750" height="740"/></div><figcaption>Data: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="MnDOT" data-vars-click-url="https://www.dot.state.mn.us/freeway-operations/reports.html" data-vars-content-id="28673455-3aef-46a8-a71e-a77c54027b48" data-vars-headline="In Minnesota&#x27;s express toll lanes, scofflaws nearly outnumber E-ZPasses" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.dot.state.mn.us/freeway-operations/reports.html" target="_blank">MnDOT</a>; Note: Totals from all observation points along each corridor during tolled morning and afternoon commute periods; Chart: Kyle Stokes/Axios</figcaption></figure></div>Between the lines: The toll lanes&#x27; primary goal isn&#x27;t to make money; it&#x27;s to improve traffic flow during peak times — just like a ramp meter, according to MnDOT spokesperson Anne Meyer.<ul><li>Even with high violation rates, E-ZPass lanes maintain higher traffic speeds than general lanes and reduce trip times by as much as 10 minutes during peak times, according to the latest annual report.</li></ul>What we&#x27;re watching: A February <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="report" data-vars-click-url="https://mdl.mndot.gov/items/2026cav02" data-vars-content-id="28673455-3aef-46a8-a71e-a77c54027b48" data-vars-headline="In Minnesota&#x27;s express toll lanes, scofflaws nearly outnumber E-ZPasses" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://mdl.mndot.gov/items/2026cav02" target="_blank">report</a> from consulting firm AECOM detailed how MnDOT could use more automated tools — such as license plate readers and passenger-detecting cameras — to reduce E-ZPass violation rates.<ul><li>The report noted that the rollout would be costly — and could face legal hurdles and objections on privacy and civil liberties grounds.</li></ul><h2 class="text-h6 !font-sans !font-normal !leading-[1.2em]">Axios readers come clean on E-ZPass</h2>Axios reader Steven learned his lesson in 2016.<ul><li>While commuting into downtown Minneapolis, he occasionally merged into the E-ZPass lane to cut through the congestion.</li></ul>Finally, a state trooper pulled Steven over and asked why he had no pass. <ul><li>&quot;I matter of factly replied, &#x27;I didn&#x27;t think I would get caught,&#x27;&quot; he told us in an email. &quot;The officer stifled a big laugh.&quot;</li></ul>The big picture: The Minnesota State Patrol dedicates teams of troopers to E-ZPass enforcement.<ul><li>In 2024, those patrols pulled over nearly 6,000 vehicles, and cited or warned about half of those drivers for tolling violations, Meyer said.</li></ul>&quot;E-ZPass lane enforcement is no joke along 394,&quot; wrote reader Kyle F., who says it&#x27;s typical to see two or three people each week pulled over in the E-ZPass lane.Reality check: Most scofflaws aren&#x27;t caught. In 2024, an estimated 11,000 violators used the lanes every day,<ul><li>&quot;There doesn&#x27;t seem to be any penalties for not being a paid user,&quot; wrote Marg P., who uses an E-ZPass to shorten her drive time to Lino Lakes.</li></ul>Follow the money: Violators are dodging tolls that can jump as high as $8 per trip. (The average is about $1.14.)<ul><li>&quot;It can be expensive on high congestion days,&quot; Teri I. said, &quot;so it sucks getting charged for that convenience and others are jumping in hoping to not get caught.&quot;</li></ul>Yes, but: Law-abiding E-ZPass users still praise their passes.<ul><li>&quot;Just eases the travel issues significantly!&quot; Rick said, adding that the modest cost is worth it &quot;to gain the ease of driving in that lane when traffic sucks!&quot;</li></ul>

"Zoë Bakes" star lists Minneapolis home with TV-ready kitchen

François' chef's kitchen served as the backdrop for her HBO Max show "Zoë Bakes."

Real Estate

Want to be the star of your own cooking show? This historic Minneapolis home has the kitchen for you.Driving the news: Twin Cities baker, cookbook author and television host <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Zoë François" data-vars-click-url="https://mspmag.com/shop-and-style/zoe-francois-rise/" data-vars-content-id="b53c4956-f651-4ac1-9a0f-6ad5b20afb81" data-vars-headline="&quot;Zoë Bakes&quot; star lists Minneapolis home with TV-ready kitchen" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://mspmag.com/shop-and-style/zoe-francois-rise/" target="_blank">Zoë François</a> just put her home on the market — and you may recognize that chef&#x27;s kitchen as the backdrop of her HBO Max show &quot;<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Zoë Bakes" data-vars-click-url="https://www.hbomax.com/shows/zoe-bakes/85d7df13-47b2-4d07-a5b4-35674ffd86ef" data-vars-content-id="b53c4956-f651-4ac1-9a0f-6ad5b20afb81" data-vars-headline="&quot;Zoë Bakes&quot; star lists Minneapolis home with TV-ready kitchen" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.hbomax.com/shows/zoe-bakes/85d7df13-47b2-4d07-a5b4-35674ffd86ef" target="_blank">Zoë Bakes</a>.&quot;

Behind the scenes: Target creates testing lab in Brooklyn Park

One focus of the company's new "Epic Lab" is improving its network of 2,000 stores that double as shipping hubs.

Business

In the big retail <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="race" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/12/amazon-delivery-speed-war-walmart-target" data-vars-content-id="4ddb0f50-daf9-43c4-ae9d-6de74fe51e9e" data-vars-headline="Behind the scenes: Target creates testing lab in Brooklyn Park" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/12/amazon-delivery-speed-war-walmart-target" target="_self">race</a> to be fast and efficient, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Target" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/02/22/target-shopping-delivery-sortation-centers" data-vars-content-id="4ddb0f50-daf9-43c4-ae9d-6de74fe51e9e" data-vars-headline="Behind the scenes: Target creates testing lab in Brooklyn Park" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/02/22/target-shopping-delivery-sortation-centers" target="_self">Target</a> this month finished building out an innovation lab in Brooklyn Park, where it can test out new ideas. Why it matters: One focus of the company&#x27;s new &quot;Epic Lab&quot; is improving its network of 2,000 stores that double as shipping hubs.

Restaurant Roundup: Revival's revival

Rock Elm Tavern has also rebranded under a new owner, with smoked meats on the menu

Food and Drink

🍗 The owners of Borough are closing the North Loop restaurant in late June and will open fried chicken restaurant Revival in the space, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="per Fox9" data-vars-click-url="https://www.fox9.com/news/borough-closing-north-loop-revival-will-return-its-spot" data-vars-content-id="e652e63c-5fd7-464a-a05c-72ad2f1502c4" data-vars-headline="Restaurant Roundup: Revival&#x27;s revival" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.fox9.com/news/borough-closing-north-loop-revival-will-return-its-spot" target="_blank">per Fox9</a>.<ul><li>They <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="purchased" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2025/07/14/fried-chicken-restaurant-revival-reopens-new-ownership" data-vars-content-id="e652e63c-5fd7-464a-a05c-72ad2f1502c4" data-vars-headline="Restaurant Roundup: Revival&#x27;s revival" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2025/07/14/fried-chicken-restaurant-revival-reopens-new-ownership" target="_self">purchased</a> the Revival brand in 2025 after an abrupt shutdown. </li></ul>🍔 Parlour, the popular subterranean cocktail bar and burger spot run by the same hospitality group, will close briefly for renovations.

Restaurant roundup: Beast Barbecue closes, Duck Duck Coffee expands

Ducks on Lake will open on East Lake Street as soon as next month, Longfellow Whatever reports.

Duck Duck Coffee is expanding to East Lake Street, Longfellow Whatever <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="reports" data-vars-click-url="https://www.longfellowwhatever.com/ducks-on-lake-coffee-shop-opening-in-the-former-milkweed/" data-vars-content-id="f57f7c3b-e5c3-4773-a02e-b077f5090ae7" data-vars-headline="Restaurant roundup: Beast Barbecue closes, Duck Duck Coffee expands" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.longfellowwhatever.com/ducks-on-lake-coffee-shop-opening-in-the-former-milkweed/" target="_blank">reports</a>. <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Ducks on Lake" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/ducks_on_lake_mpls/" data-vars-content-id="f57f7c3b-e5c3-4773-a02e-b077f5090ae7" data-vars-headline="Restaurant roundup: Beast Barbecue closes, Duck Duck Coffee expands" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/ducks_on_lake_mpls/" target="_blank">Ducks on Lake</a> will open in the former Milkweed space as soon as next month.<ul><li>In more coffee news, Eden Prairie&#x27;s Smith Coffee &amp; Cafe is adding a new location at 50th &amp; France this fall, owners told the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Minnesota Star Tribune" data-vars-click-url="https://www.startribune.com/smith-coffee-cafe-edina-j-carver-lowry-closing-owamni-patio-party/601667768" data-vars-content-id="f57f7c3b-e5c3-4773-a02e-b077f5090ae7" data-vars-headline="Restaurant roundup: Beast Barbecue closes, Duck Duck Coffee expands" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.startribune.com/smith-coffee-cafe-edina-j-carver-lowry-closing-owamni-patio-party/601667768" target="_blank">Minnesota Star Tribune</a>.</li><li>And Arya Cafe, the Ethiopian coffee shop on Minnehaha Avenue in Minneapolis, has reopened after a three-month closure, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="per its social media" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/p/DXWmLaQgJZa/" data-vars-content-id="f57f7c3b-e5c3-4773-a02e-b077f5090ae7" data-vars-headline="Restaurant roundup: Beast Barbecue closes, Duck Duck Coffee expands" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DXWmLaQgJZa/" target="_blank">per its social media</a>.</li></ul>🇫🇷 Restaurant Aubergine, the neighborhood French bistro by Gavin Kaysen alums, opens Friday in Cathedral Hill. As of Thursday afternoon, a few reservations were still available.🍗 Beast Barbecue in Northeast Minneapolis will permanently close on May 2 after seven years in operation, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="it announced this week" data-vars-click-url="https://www.facebook.com/BeastBarbecueMN/posts/pfbid02DmeqJ1AMgcgW2aA6UCaajxXsK62BCMCrV9drTqt4aFrmGiCFkV9mzNiyJz6Za9fTl" data-vars-content-id="f57f7c3b-e5c3-4773-a02e-b077f5090ae7" data-vars-headline="Restaurant roundup: Beast Barbecue closes, Duck Duck Coffee expands" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.facebook.com/BeastBarbecueMN/posts/pfbid02DmeqJ1AMgcgW2aA6UCaajxXsK62BCMCrV9drTqt4aFrmGiCFkV9mzNiyJz6Za9fTl" target="_blank">it announced this week</a>.<ul><li>No reason was given for the closure, but the building was <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="on the market" data-vars-click-url="https://www.downtownvoices.news/posts/elis-restaurant-and-bar-closes-downtown-northeast-location-goes-up-for-sale" data-vars-content-id="f57f7c3b-e5c3-4773-a02e-b077f5090ae7" data-vars-headline="Restaurant roundup: Beast Barbecue closes, Duck Duck Coffee expands" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.downtownvoices.news/posts/elis-restaurant-and-bar-closes-downtown-northeast-location-goes-up-for-sale" target="_blank">on the market</a> in 2024.</li></ul>🇵🇱 Black Duck Spirits &amp; Hearth has rebranded as a &quot;wood-fired Polish bistro&quot; with 16 new Slavic-inspired menu items, per a release.<ul><li>Meanwhile, Brian Ingram&#x27;s North Loop pasta spot Salt &amp; Flour Kitchen will relaunch May 4 with &quot;nothing over $15,&quot; Ingram announced <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="on Instagram" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/p/DXeraazmtDB/?img_index=1" data-vars-content-id="f57f7c3b-e5c3-4773-a02e-b077f5090ae7" data-vars-headline="Restaurant roundup: Beast Barbecue closes, Duck Duck Coffee expands" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DXeraazmtDB/?img_index=1" target="_blank">on Instagram</a>.</li></ul>🍻 Four Minnesota breweries, including Northbound Smokehouse &amp; Brewpub and Forgotten Star Brewing Co., took home medals at the 2026 World Beer Cup. <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Full list of winners" data-vars-click-url="https://www.worldbeercup.org/winners/award-winners/" data-vars-content-id="f57f7c3b-e5c3-4773-a02e-b077f5090ae7" data-vars-headline="Restaurant roundup: Beast Barbecue closes, Duck Duck Coffee expands" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.worldbeercup.org/winners/award-winners/" target="_blank">Full list of winners</a>

Newer food halls think small and suburban

Remote work has changed where we spend our happy hours and weekends.

Big cities may have built the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="food hall" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2023/03/03/minneapolis-st-paul-twin-cities-food-hall-trend" data-vars-content-id="e58f423b-3e5f-4dd7-b141-2c99170af1bd" data-vars-headline="Newer food halls think small and suburban" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2023/03/03/minneapolis-st-paul-twin-cities-food-hall-trend" target="_self">food hall</a> industry&#x27;s brand, but the nation&#x27;s next wave of food hall projects will be built in suburbs and smaller spaces.Why it matters: That takeaway from the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="State of Food Halls" data-vars-click-url="https://colicchioconsulting.com/state-of-food-halls-2026/" data-vars-content-id="e58f423b-3e5f-4dd7-b141-2c99170af1bd" data-vars-headline="Newer food halls think small and suburban" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://colicchioconsulting.com/state-of-food-halls-2026/" target="_blank">State of Food Halls</a> report — recently presented to a gathering of industry insiders in Minneapolis — is another sign of how <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="remote work" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2024/05/26/minnesota-remote-work-highest-states-hybrid" data-vars-content-id="e58f423b-3e5f-4dd7-b141-2c99170af1bd" data-vars-headline="Newer food halls think small and suburban" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2024/05/26/minnesota-remote-work-highest-states-hybrid" target="_self">remote work</a> has changed where we spend our happy hours and our weekends.<ul><li>Nationwide, 14 of the 20 newest food halls opened in suburbs or small towns.</li></ul>

Afro-Caribbean bistro to replace Owamni on Minneapolis riverfront

Arch and River is expected to open this summer.

Things to Do

A French &quot;bistronomie&quot; serving Afro-Caribbean fare is moving into <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Owamni&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2021/08/16/owamni-minneapolis-sioux-chef-indigenous-restaurant" data-vars-content-id="534ca575-694c-4e11-b19f-aa69ec2e515e" data-vars-headline="Afro-Caribbean bistro to replace Owamni on Minneapolis riverfront" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2021/08/16/owamni-minneapolis-sioux-chef-indigenous-restaurant" target="_self">Owamni&#x27;s</a> spot along the Mississippi River. Why it matters: Owamni&#x27;s upcoming departure from the Water Works Pavilion, operated by the Minneapolis Park &amp; Recreation Board, opens up <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="prime restaurant real estate" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2025/07/10/highest-grossing-minneapolis-park-restaurants" data-vars-content-id="534ca575-694c-4e11-b19f-aa69ec2e515e" data-vars-headline="Afro-Caribbean bistro to replace Owamni on Minneapolis riverfront" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2025/07/10/highest-grossing-minneapolis-park-restaurants" target="_self">prime restaurant real estate</a> overlooking the Stone Arch Bridge.

Twin Cities' last nonalcoholic bottle shop is in danger of closing

Almost every Twin Cities nonalcoholic bottle shop has closed this year, and the only one left is barely hanging on.

Almost every nonalcoholic bottle shop in the Twin Cities has closed this year — and the only one remaining is on the brink of shutting down, its owner tells Axios.The big picture: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Nonalcoholic drink sales" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2024/02/26/twin-cities-sales-of-na-beer-have-doubled-signaling-a-change-in-how-were-drinking" data-vars-content-id="9716727e-89b5-4235-9e3e-f94922bf92b0" data-vars-headline="Twin Cities&#x27; last nonalcoholic bottle shop is in danger of closing" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2024/02/26/twin-cities-sales-of-na-beer-have-doubled-signaling-a-change-in-how-were-drinking" target="_self">Nonalcoholic drink sales</a> are booming nationwide as Americans <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="cut back on alcohol" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/08/13/alcohol-drinking-rate-low-health" data-vars-content-id="9716727e-89b5-4235-9e3e-f94922bf92b0" data-vars-headline="Twin Cities&#x27; last nonalcoholic bottle shop is in danger of closing" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/08/13/alcohol-drinking-rate-low-health" target="_self">cut back on alcohol</a>.

Romance fans swoon over Abby Jimenez's latest cupcake creation

The sweet treat was inspired by Abby Jimenez's newest release, "The Night We Met."

Fans of best-selling <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="romance novelist" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2023/12/05/romance-bookstore-minneapolis-tropes-trifles-lgbtq-friendly" data-vars-content-id="a9935fa9-c788-4666-ac3f-5989bec396a1" data-vars-headline="Romance fans swoon over Abby Jimenez&#x27;s latest cupcake creation" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2023/12/05/romance-bookstore-minneapolis-tropes-trifles-lgbtq-friendly" target="_self">romance novelist</a> Abby Jimenez can treat themselves to a special cupcake inspired by the Minnesota author&#x27;s newest release. State of the sweet tooth: Jimenez, who also owns award-winning bakery <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Nadia Cakes" data-vars-click-url="https://www.nadiacakes.com/" data-vars-content-id="a9935fa9-c788-4666-ac3f-5989bec396a1" data-vars-headline="Romance fans swoon over Abby Jimenez&#x27;s latest cupcake creation" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.nadiacakes.com/" target="_blank">Nadia Cakes</a>, has a tradition of whipping up custom creations to celebrate her book launches. <ul><li>The latest design mirrors the firework-and-sunset-splashed cover of her seventh novel, &quot;<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Night We Met" data-vars-click-url="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/231801371-the-night-we-met" data-vars-content-id="a9935fa9-c788-4666-ac3f-5989bec396a1" data-vars-headline="Romance fans swoon over Abby Jimenez&#x27;s latest cupcake creation" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/231801371-the-night-we-met" target="_blank">The Night We Met</a>,&quot; which <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="topped multiple bestseller lists " data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/p/DWrNbeZETW8/?img_index=1" data-vars-content-id="a9935fa9-c788-4666-ac3f-5989bec396a1" data-vars-headline="Romance fans swoon over Abby Jimenez&#x27;s latest cupcake creation" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DWrNbeZETW8/?img_index=1" target="_blank">topped multiple bestseller lists </a>after its late March release.</li></ul>

The Michelin Guide is headed to Minneapolis — and skipping St. Paul

Minneapolis will be part of the American Great Lakes edition.

After years of speculation, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the Michelin Guide" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2023/09/26/michelin-guide-stars-minneapolis-minnesota" data-vars-content-id="15d4d833-11fc-4941-96bb-fb03ca5e5954" data-vars-headline="The Michelin Guide is headed to Minneapolis — and skipping St. Paul" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2023/09/26/michelin-guide-stars-minneapolis-minnesota" target="_self">the Michelin Guide</a> is coming to Minneapolis — but inspectors won&#x27;t be awarding stars anywhere else in the state. The big picture: The prestigious culinary guide announced Wednesday the creation of an <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="American Great Lakes" data-vars-click-url="https://guide.michelin.com/us/en/event/american-great-lakes-to-join-the-global-culinary-map-with-new-michelin-guide-edition" data-vars-content-id="15d4d833-11fc-4941-96bb-fb03ca5e5954" data-vars-headline="The Michelin Guide is headed to Minneapolis — and skipping St. Paul" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://guide.michelin.com/us/en/event/american-great-lakes-to-join-the-global-culinary-map-with-new-michelin-guide-edition" target="_blank">American Great Lakes</a> edition, which will cover restaurants in Minneapolis, Milwaukee, Detroit, Indianapolis, Cleveland and Pittsburgh.<ul><li>The restaurant selections won&#x27;t be released until 2027, but inspectors are already dining in each city, Michelin said.</li></ul>Why it matters: Michelin stars are among the top honors a restaurant can receive, and having starred restaurants can boost a city&#x27;s culinary tourism and public image.The catch: Getting the guide to come to town comes with a price.<ul><li>The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Minneapolis Tourism Improvement District" data-vars-click-url="https://www.minneapolis.org/tourism-improvement-district/" data-vars-content-id="15d4d833-11fc-4941-96bb-fb03ca5e5954" data-vars-headline="The Michelin Guide is headed to Minneapolis — and skipping St. Paul" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.minneapolis.org/tourism-improvement-district/" target="_blank">Minneapolis Tourism Improvement District</a>, which is funded by a 2% service charge on hotel room revenue, will pay $250,000 per year for the three-year partnership with Michelin, tourism organization Meet Minneapolis told Axios.</li></ul>Yes, and: The guide will only cover restaurants within Minneapolis city limits, meaning <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="nationally acclaimed" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2025/06/17/b-cheron-wins-best-new-restaurant" data-vars-content-id="15d4d833-11fc-4941-96bb-fb03ca5e5954" data-vars-headline="The Michelin Guide is headed to Minneapolis — and skipping St. Paul" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2025/06/17/b-cheron-wins-best-new-restaurant" target="_self">nationally acclaimed</a> St. Paul spots like <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Myriel" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2024/06/23/myriel-private-dining-tomlinson-st-paul-local-ingredients-farm" data-vars-content-id="15d4d833-11fc-4941-96bb-fb03ca5e5954" data-vars-headline="The Michelin Guide is headed to Minneapolis — and skipping St. Paul" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2024/06/23/myriel-private-dining-tomlinson-st-paul-local-ingredients-farm" target="_self">Myriel</a> won&#x27;t have the opportunity to earn a star.<ul><li>&quot;We know that increased awareness and recognition in the region can benefit all of us,&quot; Visit Saint Paul CEO Jaimee Lucke Hendrikson said in a statement to Axios. </li></ul>What they&#x27;re saying: &quot;We have the talent, cultural diversity and hospitality to stand with any culinary destination in the world,&quot; Meet Minneapolis CEO Melvin Tennant said at a news conference.<ul><li>&quot;If there were any secrets left about Minneapolis as a top food city, joining together with the Michelin Guide will remove any of that doubt,&quot; he added.</li></ul>The other side: A <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="report" data-vars-click-url="https://www.hospitalityminnesota.com/sohr/" data-vars-content-id="15d4d833-11fc-4941-96bb-fb03ca5e5954" data-vars-headline="The Michelin Guide is headed to Minneapolis — and skipping St. Paul" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.hospitalityminnesota.com/sohr/" target="_blank">report</a> released Wednesday by trade association Hospitality Minnesota claims the state&#x27;s industry is &quot;on the brink of no return,&quot; with 57% of hospitality businesses reporting lower profits in 2025.<ul><li>Hospitality Minnesota CEO Angie Whitcomb cited financial pressures, including rising wholesale prices and tariff-related increases, as well as statewide &quot;overregulation.&quot;</li></ul>What we&#x27;re watching: While the star system receives the most attention, the Michelin Guide also awards the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Bib Gourmand" data-vars-click-url="https://guide.michelin.com/en/article/features/the-bib-gourmand" data-vars-content-id="15d4d833-11fc-4941-96bb-fb03ca5e5954" data-vars-headline="The Michelin Guide is headed to Minneapolis — and skipping St. Paul" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://guide.michelin.com/en/article/features/the-bib-gourmand" target="_blank">Bib Gourmand</a>, which recognizes restaurants that deliver &quot;high-quality food at great value.&quot;<ul><li>What spot in Minneapolis fits the bill? Email us your thoughts at twincities@axios.com.</li></ul>

Hockey-themed coffee shop takes over Dinkytown's iconic Annie's Parlour

Two for Tripping gave the exterior a makeover.

For the first time since 1974, the Dinkytown space that housed Annie&#x27;s Parlour has a new tenant — a hockey-themed coffee shop.The latest: Two for Tripping, which opened last week and serves specialty coffee and breakfast items, gave the building a hockey-inspired exterior paint job, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="per the Minnesota Daily" data-vars-click-url="https://mndaily.com/city/coffee-shop-two-for-tripping-hopes-to-revitalize-dinkytown/04/01/2026/eicmndaily-com/" data-vars-content-id="b052f240-d221-446b-b504-e68ad70fc7c3" data-vars-headline="Hockey-themed coffee shop takes over Dinkytown&#x27;s iconic Annie&#x27;s Parlour" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://mndaily.com/city/coffee-shop-two-for-tripping-hopes-to-revitalize-dinkytown/04/01/2026/eicmndaily-com/" target="_blank">per the Minnesota Daily</a>.<ul><li>The interior&#x27;s exposed brick, large windows and wooden booths still remain, and while malts are off the menu, you can request your latte to be served in one of Annie&#x27;s old glasses.</li></ul>Audrey&#x27;s thought bubble: The area has been lacking a spacious, independent coffee shop since <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Purple Onion closed" data-vars-click-url="https://mndaily.com/city/long-time-dinkytown-staple-purple-onion-closes-doors/10/19/2020/snoadmin/" data-vars-content-id="b052f240-d221-446b-b504-e68ad70fc7c3" data-vars-headline="Hockey-themed coffee shop takes over Dinkytown&#x27;s iconic Annie&#x27;s Parlour" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://mndaily.com/city/long-time-dinkytown-staple-purple-onion-closes-doors/10/19/2020/snoadmin/" target="_blank">The Purple Onion closed</a> in 2020, and this is a solid replacement — even if the coffee needs a little work.

Kado No Mise chef is Minnesota's only James Beard finalist

Shigeyuki Furukawa is up for the Midwest's best chef.

Kado No Mise chef Shigeyuki Furukawa was named a James Beard Award finalist Tuesday for the Midwest&#x27;s best chef.Why it matters: Out of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="10 Minnesota restaurants and chefs" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/01/21/minnesota-james-beard-semifinalists" data-vars-content-id="21195618-766b-4272-b977-0f77534a08a2" data-vars-headline="Kado No Mise chef is Minnesota&#x27;s only James Beard finalist" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/01/21/minnesota-james-beard-semifinalists" target="_self">10 Minnesota restaurants and chefs</a> who were previously named semifinalists in the Oscar awards of the foodie world, Furukawa is the only nominee who made the shortlist.

Restaurant roundup: Pajarito closes St. Paul location

The Edina outpost will remain open, owners said.

Midtown Global Market is welcoming two new vendors this week. After closing its LynLake restaurant <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="last October," data-vars-click-url="https://bringmethenews.com/minnesota-lifestyle/plant-based-restaurant-will-leave-its-lyn-lake-storefront-at-the-end-of-october-" data-vars-content-id="4a7ae240-b179-40c0-abf2-c1483c69fad3" data-vars-headline="Restaurant roundup: Pajarito closes St. Paul location" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://bringmethenews.com/minnesota-lifestyle/plant-based-restaurant-will-leave-its-lyn-lake-storefront-at-the-end-of-october-" target="_blank">last October,</a> vegan soul food spot Trio Plant-Based is reopening inside the market Friday, per a release.<ul><li>Somali eatery 7 Spices, which previously operated within Karmel Mall, will hold its grand opening Saturday to mark the end of Ramadan.</li></ul>

Food and Drink 🍽

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Newer food halls think small and suburban

Afro-Caribbean bistro to replace Owamni on Minneapolis riverfront