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<\/p>\nBROOKLYN PARK, MN <\/p>\n
A long-standing Godfather\u2019s Pizza location in Brooklyn Park has closed and will be replaced by a new locally owned establishment, Joe\u2019s Sports Bar, Pizza and African Deli, marking a transition from a national franchise to a hybrid, community-based concept.<\/p>\n
The restaurant at 7450 Unity Ave. N. served its final customers on March 22, 2026, ending what had been a decades-long presence at the site. The most recent owner, Roger Backstrom, retired after operating the location for nearly 20 years.<\/p>\n
Property Sale and Redevelopment<\/p>\n
Property records and local business filings indicate the building was sold in late March 2026 for approximately $825,000 to Joe Jarbah, a Brooklyn Park entrepreneur known locally as the owner of Boss Kuts barbershop.<\/p>\n
Jarbah plans to reopen the nearly 5,000-square-foot space in July 2026, following a full interior remodel.<\/p>\n
Business Concept<\/p>\n
The new establishment will combine three elements under one operation:<\/p>\n
Sports bar
\nPizza restaurant
\nAfrican deli<\/p>\n
According to business plans shared locally, the menu is expected to include both traditional American bar offerings and West African cuisine.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Expected offerings include:<\/p>\n
African dishes: cassava leaves, potato greens, collard greens, and jollof rice
\nAmerican fare: pizza, pasta, burgers, wings, and fries<\/p>\n
Sports Bar Component<\/p>\n
The venue is designed to function as a sports-focused gathering space, with multiple televisions planned for coverage of professional and collegiate sports, including football, basketball, hockey, soccer, and baseball.<\/p>\n
Additional features are expected to include regulated gaming options such as Minnesota pull tabs, consistent with state-licensed bar operations.<\/p>\n
Local Business Shift<\/p>\n
The transition reflects a broader shift in suburban commercial corridors, where independently owned businesses are replacing national franchise locations. The redevelopment maintains active use of the property while introducing a concept tailored to local demand.<\/p>\n
Brooklyn Park, one of Minnesota\u2019s most diverse cities, has seen continued growth in businesses reflecting a wider range of cultural offerings. The inclusion of an African deli component aligns with demographic and consumer trends within the community.<\/p>\n
Opening Timeline<\/p>\n
Renovation work is expected to continue through the spring, with an anticipated opening in mid-summer 2026. Final licensing approvals, including food service and alcohol permits, will be required prior to opening.<\/p>\n
City officials have not released additional statements on the project, but the redevelopment will return a vacant restaurant site to active use and expand dining and gathering options for residents.<\/p>\n