It's news that nobody really wants to see, but yet another popular restaurant and bar here in Minnesota just said they're closing their doors for good.

This spot in the North Star State's capital city has been dishing out great food, strong drinks, and plenty of local charm for nearly a decade now. But now, it’s calling it quits. While the doors may be closing, the memories (and maybe a few unpaid tabs) will live on.

Restaurants play a unique role in our economy and culture both here in Minnesota and across the country. The National Restaurant Association estimates that there are currently over 11,100 restaurants in the Land of 10,000 Lakes, generating over $15 billion in sales.

SEE ALSO: This Longtime Minnesota Restaurant Also Just Closed For Good

However, difficult hours and high turnover rates mean it's often tough for restaurants here in Minnesota and nationwide to attract and retain workers. And, since the pandemic introduced even more challenges, it's sadly become the new normal to see restaurant closings become a more common occurrence in the news.

So it was another blow to read that the Dark Horse Bar & Eatery in St. Paul announced that it was closing permanently. In a post on their Facebook page, the restaurant, which said it was known for 'Pizza, wings and whiskey. Lots & lots of whiskey,' was located at 250 East 7th Street in St. Paul's Lowertown district. Their post said they'll be open for another two weeks before shutting their doors for good on Valentine's Day, February 14th, 2025.

The Dark Horse Bar & Eatery, on 7th Street in St. Paul. (Google Maps)
The Dark Horse Bar & Eatery (on the left), on 7th Street in St. Paul. (Google Maps)
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The Dark Horse Bar & Eatery said it had been in business for 10 years this year, having first opened its doors back in 2015. But it's all soon coming to an end:

With the heaviest heart, we would like to inform you all that we are closing our doors the 14th of February. It was not an easy decision and we are all completely heart broken. This business is not for the weak-hearted and we gave it our absolute best, like Paddy would say— “a good ole college try.”

The post went on to thank its patrons for their business over the past 10 years but also pointed to its name-- and how it's not applicable anymore. "Dark Horse means to be an underdog, someone who is not likely to win— But not here," the post sadly noted.

It's always sad to see another business close permanently. But, as we know, it's not exactly rare. In fact, keep scrolling to check out 50 beloved retail chains that have also thrown in the towel and closed for good as well.

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Gallery Credit: Madison Troyer

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