Minnesota Faces Restaurant Closures: Gina Maria's Pizza Joins List

Pizza fans across Minnesota were left stunned after a local pizza chain that had been in business for decades suddenly shut down every one of its restaurants—without warning.

It seems like you almost need a scorecard to keep up with the number of restaurants that have either recently closed or have said they're closing permanently here in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.

It was back in February that the Dark Horse Bar & Eatery in St. Paul announced it was closing for good on Valentine's Day. Thankfully, it's now open again with new owners. Before that, diners in Woodbury and Lake Elmo were shocked when The Machine Shed, the longtime restaurant that had been open for over 20 years just off I-94, posted a sign on its doors saying it was now closed.

Back in July, the classic restaurant, Annie's Parlour, located in the Minneapolis Dinkytown neighborhood near the University of Minnesota, also shut its doors for good after having been in business since 1974!

Of course, these closings aren't just limited to restaurants, either. Earlier this spring, news broke of another business that was closing its Minnesota location. Outdoor retailer The Sportsman's Guide announced back in early April that it was closing its warehouse and distribution facility in South St. Paul and moving out of state.

2025 has apparently not been a good year for pizza places in Minnesota, either. We got word last summer that Big River Pizza, the long-time popular restaurant famous for wood-fired pizzas in St. Paul, was also closing up shop and cooking its last pie.

And now comes the surprise word that Gina Maria's Pizza has apparently closed all four of its Minnesota locations as well.

The Gina Maria's location in Eden Prairie, MN. (Google Maps)

The popular pizza restaurant, which was founded in 1975, had locations in Chanhassen, Eden Prairie, Edina, and Plymouth. It posted the sad news on its website, noting that the decision 'did not come easily' and that 'Gina Maria's Pizza has officially closed its doors':

We are incredibly grateful for the loyalty, support and memories we've shared with all of you-- whether you stopped by for a quick slice, brought your family in for dinner, or chose us for your special occasions. Your support has meant the world to us. We're proud of what we built together and will always cherish the relationships formed over hot pizzas, warm smiles and great conversation.

The restaurant didn't give any specific reason for the abrupt closing, and all other functions on its website now only list that closing statement. All four locations are now listed as 'permanently closed' on Google Maps, as well.

It's a sad fact that sometimes, some of our famous restaurants, stores, and businesses throw in the towel and close for good. Keep scrolling to check out some once-popular brands that are now also permanently closed.