**Gina Maria’s Pizza Closes Its Doors After Nearly Fifty Years in Minneapolis**
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In a shocking announcement, Gina Maria’s Pizza has closed all four of its Minneapolis locations, marking the end of an era for the beloved chain that has been serving customers since 1975. The abrupt closure occurred in October 2025, leaving many patronising fans puzzled about the sudden decision.
The company recently filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy on March 26, revealing a dire financial situation with reported liabilities amounting to approximately £2.9 million against a mere £64,000 in assets. According to various media outlets, including The Independent and the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal, Northern Brands Inc., the parent company of Gina Maria’s Pizza, will liquidate its assets in a bid to settle debts, as this type of bankruptcy typically does not involve restructuring for recovery.
The establishment issued a statement on its now-defunct website, expressing regret over its closure. “The decision did not come easily. We’re proud of what we built together and will always cherish the relationships formed over hot pizzas, warm smiles, and great conversation,” it stated, emphasising the close-knit community that the restaurant had formed over its years of operation.
Gina Maria’s Pizza had multiple locations across the Twin Cities, including Chanhassen, Eden Prairie, Edina, and Plymouth. The news of its closure immediately sparked reactions on social media, with loyal customers expressing their dismay. Comments flooded in on the restaurant’s shut Facebook page, with sentiments like “Closed. Sad. Easily the BEST pizza anywhere,” and “I’m so bummed, I live a block away from the E.P. store. I have been going there for 25 years.”
The financial struggles that led to Gina Maria’s Pizza’s demise serve as a poignant reminder of the difficulties faced by many small and independent businesses, particularly in changing economic climates and competitive landscapes. Operating for nearly five decades, the chain had built a reputation for distinctive recipes and comforting dining experiences, which have now been lost to the community.
Despite the closure, there appears to be a glimmer of hope for fans of Gina Maria’s recipes. Ulises Godinez, a former manager of the Eden Prairie location, has opened a new eatery named Pizzas Gina in its former place. Godinez aims to honour the legacy of Gina Maria’s Pizza by serving the same cherished recipes that attracted countless patrons over the years.
Local media reported that the new restaurant opened its doors in November 2025 and seems to be off to a promising start, tapping into the nostalgia and loyalty that customers hold for the original chain. Godinez’s venture underscores the enduring love for the flavours that made Gina Maria’s a beloved staple in the Minneapolis area.
As customers begin to adjust to the loss of Gina Maria’s Pizza, they are also welcoming the new establishment with open arms, anticipating the familiar tastes they hope will be replicated at Pizzas Gina.
It is important to differentiate Gina Maria’s Pizza from Gina Maria’s Pizzeria in California, as the two entities are unrelated and have no financial ties.
The sudden closure of Gina Maria’s Pizza raises questions about the sustainability of local dining establishments amidst economic pressures. Many long-standing businesses are now grappling with similar issues, leaving communities to ponder the future of their cherished eateries.
While the loss of Gina Maria’s Pizza is undoubtedly a setback for Minneapolis, the emergence of new dining options, such as Pizzas Gina, provides a sliver of hope. Local food enthusiasts will be watching closely to see if Godinez’s new venture can carry the torch and continue the legacy of one of the city’s favourite pizza chains.