Pimento on the Lake Closes at Bde Maka Ska

The Jamaican eatery has ceased operations at the Minneapolis lakeside pavilion after three years of service.

Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Openings & Closings

Pimento on the Lake Closes at Bde Maka Ska

Live Poll

Should local parks prioritize the financial success of restaurant vendors over public amenity access?

Pimento on the Lake has officially closed its doors at the Bde Maka Ska pavilion in Minneapolis. The restaurant concluded its three-year run at the lakeside location following reports of declining sales and legal issues.

Why it matters

The closure marks a significant change for the pavilion, which was recently rebuilt by the city following a major fire. The site now faces an uncertain future regarding its dining options for park visitors.

The Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board spent $6.5 million to rebuild the pavilion after a fire, while the restaurant operated for a total of 3 years.

The players

Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board

This local government agency oversees the city's park system and is responsible for the maintenance and development of public structures like the Bde Maka Ska pavilion.

Pimento on the Lake

This restaurant served Jamaican cuisine at the Bde Maka Ska lakeside pavilion for a three-year period.

The details

The restaurant operator faced mounting difficulties at the Bde Maka Ska facility, including legal trouble and poor reviews that contributed to declining sales. The decision to cease operations brings an end to the tenure of the Jamaican-fare establishment at the city-owned site.

Pimento on the Lake operated at the pavilion from 2023 to 2026.
The restaurant closure was reported on October 20, 2026.

Market Landscape

The closure follows the 2019 Bde Maka Ska pavilion fire that necessitated the city's multi-million dollar facility rebuild. This departure leaves the park board to manage the resulting vacancy within one of the city's most high-profile recreational assets.

Visitors to Bde Maka Ska will no longer have access to the Jamaican menu previously offered at the lakeside pavilion. Those planning outings to the park should be aware that the primary dining venue at the facility is currently closed.

The takeaway

Maintaining viable vendors in public park facilities remains a challenge for municipal boards balancing high construction costs with tenant performance. Residents can monitor park board meetings for future announcements regarding the use of the pavilion space.