Kim Bartmann's Pinoli restaurant closes after 2 years in Uptown
Uptown restaurant Pinoli has closed its doors.
Minneapolis restaurateur Kim Bartmann, of Placemaker Hospitality, opened the Italian restaurant two years ago in the former Amore Uptown space at the corner of Lake and Irving.
'I'm proud of both the top-notch food we created and the excellent service offered by our team," Bartmann said in an announcement. "We gave it a go and got great reviews, but despite those positives, ultimately, the concept just didn't take off."
Michelle Courtright, who owned Uptown vegan restaurant Fig + Farro from 2017 to 2020, has announced plans to take over the space.
Her lifestyle brand Jane, which incorporates low-dose cannabis products, launched in 2023 and Courtright is now planning to bring a flagship store and new plant-based restaurant called Matriarch to Uptown.
'Kim and I have known each other for years, and I am delighted about this opportunity to return to Uptown,' Courtright said in a statement. "I look forward to collaborating with Kim and other Uptown entrepreneurs to work toward energizing this unique part of the city."
According to Bartmann, Pinoli staff have the opportunity to continue employment with Placemker Hospitality or the incoming business.
Additionally, Pinoli's mission to support regenerative agriculture will live on as pastas and breads made with heritage grains will be served at the group's other restaurants.
Bartmann's other restaurants include Barbette, across the street from Pinoli, Trapeze, Tiny Diner, The Book Club, Bread & Pickle, Gigi's Cafe, and Pat's Tap.

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