Long‑time Minnesotans who grew up enjoying Bakers Square pies learned this week that the chain’s Mankato restaurant closed permanently after its final service on November 1. The closure leaves the state with only one remaining location, in Coon Rapids, and marks the latest step in a nationwide decline that now leaves just seven Bakers Square outlets across the United States.
History of a Midwest favorite
Bakers Square began as a single restaurant in Des Moines, Iowa, during the 1970s. Its menu featured soups, sandwiches, and, most notably, a variety of homemade pies that quickly earned a loyal following. The brand caught the eye of Pillsbury, which purchased the original location and expanded the concept into a regional chain.
Although Pillsbury later divested the brand, Bakers Square is now owned by the same parent company that operates Famous Dave’s. This relationship means that, even as standalone Bakers Square restaurants disappear, the chain’s signature pies remain available at many Famous Dave’s locations.
Mankato closure confirmed
A local Facebook post from a Mankato resident announced that employees were told the restaurant would close after its 8 p.m. shift on Sunday, November 1. A quick check of Google Maps now lists the Mankato address as permanently closed, confirming the report.
What remains in Minnesota
The sole surviving Minnesota outlet is located in Coon Rapids, a suburb of the Twin Cities. It joins a handful of remaining locations scattered across the country, bringing the total down from a peak of more than 140 stores, according to food‑industry source TastingTable.
Why the decline matters to local communities
For many families, Bakers Square has been more than a place to eat; it has been a community gathering spot where parents and children share a slice of pie after a weekend game or a school event. The loss of the Mankato restaurant underscores a broader trend of beloved regional eateries closing as consumer habits shift and larger chains dominate the market.
While the closure is a disappointment for longtime patrons, the connection to Famous Dave’s offers a partial consolation. The parent company continues to serve Bakers Square pies at many of its grill locations, allowing fans to still enjoy the classic flavors, albeit in a different setting.
Looking ahead
Industry observers note that the restaurant landscape is evolving, with many independent and regional brands facing pressure from national fast‑food chains and changing dining preferences. The remaining Minnesota location in Coon Rapids may become a nostalgic destination for those seeking a taste of the chain’s heritage.
For now, Minnesotans who cherish the Bakers Square legacy will have to travel to Coon Rapids or visit a nearby Famous Dave’s to satisfy their craving for the iconic pies that once dotted the state’s dining map.
Original reporting: News Talk 1340 KROC-AM – News and Talk – Rochester News Radio — read the source article.
