Another St. Paul Grand Avenue Anchor Is Closing

ST. PAUL, MN — Another anchor on St. Paul's beloved and once-bustling Grand Avenue has announced its closure. The Tavern on Grand, which opened in 1990, is set to close its doors for the last time in early June.

"We are truly grateful to have been able to make our famous walleye and homemade meals for nearly 35 years," the Tavern on Grand said in a statement on Thursday.

"This could have only been accomplished with the love and support of our customers, community, and staff. We are thankful to have been like a home to many over the years with memories to last several lifetimes."

The restaurant encouraged patrons, new and old, to stop by before it shuts down this summer, saying: "So, should you join us between now and then to reminisce and celebrate a great run? You Betcha!"

Inflation, dwindling foot traffic, the upcoming end of the lease, and personal life transitions for the family of owners all played a role in the decision, the Star Tribune reported.

The Tavern on Grand is just the latest business on the popular avenue to announce its closure since the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdowns.

"It's very empty over here," Damla Erten, who helps run Grand Avenue's Sencha Tea Bar, told the Tribune. "When people from outside the neighborhood and community come visit, they feel the energy. And for a long time, it felt like that energy hasn't been there."

Restaurants that have closed since 2020:

Salut Bar Americain
Dixie's On Grand
Wild Onion (became Red Rabbit)

National retailers:

Anthropologie
Pottery Barn
J. Crew
Lululemon
LOFT
North Face