One-quarter of Minnesota’s Red Robin restaurants close, leaving fans reeling; more closures expected nationwide

The beloved burger chain Red Robin Gourmet Burgers is shrinking its presence in Minnesota, leaving loyal diners disappointed. The St. Cloud location at 3945 West Division Street permanently closed on October 19th 2025, reducing the state’s Red Robin locations from four to just three — a loss of one-quarter of all Minnesota restaurants.

Lease disagreement leads to sudden closure

The St. Cloud restaurant, open since 2016 in the former TGI Friday’s space near the Crossroads Center Mall, closed after management and the property owner couldn’t agree on a new lease, reports show. While some closures are part of a broader corporate downsizing strategy, this particular shutdown hit the local community unexpectedly, leaving fans of bottomless fries and gourmet burgers frustrated.

Part of a bigger national downsizing plan

Red Robin has been under financial pressure nationwide, announcing plans to shutter up to 70 underperforming restaurants between 2025 and 2030 to streamline operations and improve profitability. In 2025 alone, the chain expected 10–15 closures across the U.S., as leases expire and underperforming locations are reevaluated.

Red Robin found that 70 of its 498 locations were “underperforming,” contributing to an overall operating loss of about $6 million in 2024. This led to the decision to close a significant amount of its total locations (around 14%) over the next few years.

Minnesota diners feel the loss

For Minnesotans, the St. Cloud closure is more than just a restaurant closing — it’s a loss of a social hub for families, friends, and burger enthusiasts. While Apple Valley, Shoreview, and Plymouth still have Red Robin locations, the shrinking footprint signals challenges for casual dining chains in today’s competitive and cost-conscious market.

Looking ahead – a changing dining landscape

As Red Robin continues its nationwide portfolio realignment, communities like St. Cloud must adjust to the loss of a familiar gathering spot. Meanwhile, Red Robin fans nationwide are left wondering if their local restaurants might be next as the chain reshapes its presence in Minnesota and across the country.