Status: CLOSED
Editor’s Note: We were unable to verify a Restaurant Impossible episode featuring “Jake’s” in Minneapolis. The only confirmed Minnesota Restaurant Impossible episode was Bronk’s Bar in Lake City. This article has been updated to cover that episode.
Bronk’s Bar and Grill – Minnesota’s Restaurant Impossible
Bronk’s Bar and Grill in Lake City, Minnesota appeared on Restaurant Impossible Season 5, Episode 3 in December 2012. This is the only confirmed Restaurant Impossible episode filmed in Minnesota.
The Episode
Husband and wife team Erik and Tracy Brunkow opened Bronk’s Bar and Grill in 2001. By the time Robert Irvine arrived, the restaurant was struggling and needed the intervention that only a $10,000 makeover and operational overhaul could provide.
Irvine worked with the Brunkows to address their operational challenges and refresh the space. The episode showcased the difficulties of running a restaurant in a smaller Minnesota town.
After the Show
Like many Restaurant Impossible subjects, Bronk’s faced continued challenges after filming. The exposure helped initially, but sustaining improvements in a small market requires ongoing commitment.
Minnesota Restaurant Scene
Minnesota has produced relatively few rescue show episodes compared to states like California or New York. The state’s restaurant scene tends to be stable, with fewer dramatic failures that attract rescue show producers.
Last verified: January 2026
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