UPDATE: The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) has launched an urgent search for a new culinary partner to operate the renowned Water Works Pavilion, located alongside the historic Stone Arch Bridge. As the current contract approaches its end in April 2026, MPRB is inviting innovative restaurant and concession proposals, with a seamless transition expected by May 2026.
The Water Works Pavilion, a modern dining venue that opened in 2021, offers 7,800 square feet of versatile space. It features a year-round restaurant, event-friendly meeting rooms, and a visitor center, making it a hub for nearly 3.6 million visitors annually at the Central Mississippi Riverfront Regional Park. This picturesque site boasts cascading green terraces, a river overlook patio, and a lively plaza equipped with three gas firepits, creating an inviting atmosphere for dining and leisure.
MPRB is encouraging interested culinary visionaries to download the Request for Proposal (RFP), with submissions due by 5 PM on January 23, 2026. To facilitate this process, two open house walkthroughs are scheduled for January 12 and January 16, allowing potential operators to fully explore the dynamic venue before presenting their ideas.
This unique opportunity is positioned at the intersection of culinary excellence and historical significance, as the pavilion integrates preserved mill remnants that enrich the site’s legacy. The MPRB aims to attract a new management team that can elevate the visitor experience and cater to the diverse tastes of the growing audience frequenting this urban oasis.
With its strategic location and vibrant environment, the Water Works Pavilion is not just a dining destination; it has become a cornerstone of Minneapolis’s outdoor social life. The call for proposals represents a pivotal moment for the pavilion, as new leadership will shape its future and continue to enhance its role as a community gathering space.
For those ready to make their mark in the food service industry, this is a chance to infuse the Water Works Pavilion with fresh culinary ideas and business strategies. The countdown to submissions begins now, as the pavilion prepares for its next chapter in the heart of Minneapolis.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops and potential culinary partners begin to envision their contributions to this iconic riverside retreat.
