It was a staple for over two decades in the Land of 10,000 Lakes, but now, The Machine Shed Restaurant has closed its doors for good. Located just off I-94 across from Woodbury on Inwood Avenue in Lake Elmo, the beloved restaurant has served countless Minnesota families for years, creating memories that will now remain part of the past.
In a statement posted on the door, The Machine Shed announced its permanent closure: “Unfortunately, the Machine Shed has permanently closed its doors… We’d like to thank all of our patrons for your support throughout the years.” The news comes as a disappointment to many longtime customers who have frequented the location since it opened in 2001.
Restaurants have long played a significant role in Minnesota’s economy and culture. According to the National Restaurant Association, the state is home to over 11,100 restaurants that generate more than $15 billion in sales. However, the restaurant industry has faced challenges in recent years, including high turnover rates, labor shortages, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, closures like The Machine Shed are becoming more common.
The Machine Shed is part of a chain based in Iowa, which first opened in 1978 outside of Davenport. Although the Minnesota location is now closed, the chain continues to operate five other locations in the Midwest, including in Appleton, WI; Davenport, IA; Pewaukee, WI; Rockford, IL; and Urbandale, IA. The restaurant group is owned by the Heart of America Group, which also manages other popular restaurants such as Thunder Bay Grille and Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse.
While there is no word yet on what may replace The Machine Shed in Lake Elmo, the closure serves as a reminder of how the restaurant industry continues to evolve, especially after the pandemic. Though The Machine Shed is gone from Minnesota, its other locations remain open for now.
As nostalgia for lost businesses continues to shape Minnesotans’ memories, it also highlights the changing landscape of the state’s retail and dining scene.
