Jester Concepts acquires Rustica Bakery & Café

Minnesota-based hospitality company Jester Concepts has acquired Rustica Bakery & Café, an award-winning artisan bakery and coffee shop with locations in Minneapolis and Edina, Minn. Rustica also operates a wholesale business, which is included in the acquisition. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

“We’ve admired Rustica for several years,” Jester Concepts owner Brent Frederick said in a statement. “It is a brand we believe perfectly complements our business. We appreciate what Rustica has created and aim to preserve and embrace these qualities as we embark on this new chapter. This acquisition represents our continued commitment to the culinary landscape in the Twin Cities. We’re excited to collaborate with Rustica’s team to continue delivering exceptional food and service to our community.”

Jester does not plan to make significant changes to Rustica’s branding or operations and is focused on growing its wholesale business, as well as adding more café locations throughout the Twin Cities market. Additional plans include expanding breakfast and lunch offerings at the Minneapolis and Edina café locations with savory items. Jester has also started integrating Rustica’s baked goods into its existing restaurants, including Butcher & the Boar, P.S. Steak, Borough, Parlour, and Starling.

“I have known the team for years and am confident they have a true understanding of quality, execution, and customer loyalty for this brand. I look forward to seeing where they will take it over in the years to come,” Rustica’s former owner Greg Hoyt said in a statement.

Rustica was founded by Steve Horton in 2004. In 2015, Hoyt acquired the business, expanding its presence to Edina in 2020. Hoyt will remain involved with the business in a consulting role during the transition.

Contact Alicia Kelso at [email protected]