Jordies Trail Side Cafe In Bowlus Closes After 17 Years

For nearly two decades, one small café along a trail in Bowlus has been doing something special. Not just serving food, but serving comfort to its many loyal customers that is out of this world.

Now, after 17 Years of homemade meals and memories, 'Jordie’s Trail Side Cafe' is saying goodbye.

A DAY WE THOUGHT WOULD NEVER COME

It's a day that many of us thought would never come. Hungry travelers, cyclists, neighbors, friends, and newbies to the restaurant have been enjoying the legendary 'Jordie’s Trail Side Cafe' for years, and were probably shocked when they announced they would not reopen this spring.

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THE DOORS MIGHT BE CLOSING, BUT MEMORIES WILL REMAIN

In a heartfelt message shared with the community, Jordie and Sonya explained that the decision comes as Jordie steps into retirement and the next chapter of life. Who can blame them?

Jordie’s wasn't just a place to grab lunch. It was the kind of spot where the food made a lasting impression. Soups simmered in the kitchen, desserts were made with care, and meals were served with the kind of warmth that made people feel like they were sitting down at Grandma’s house.

IT TAKES THREE GENERATIONS TO MAKE THE DREAM WORK

That feeling wasn’t accidental. The café was run by three generations of family working side-by-side. Grandma, Mom, and daughter. Together, they built something that went far beyond a small-town restaurant. They built a gathering place.

The days weren’t always easy, they admit. Running a café is hard work, and there were plenty of long nights and weekends. But they say every single day was a blessing because of the people who walked through their doors, and it sounds like that’s the part they’ll miss the most.

Running the café with just one of them was never an option. As they put it, they needed each other “like PB & J to make Jordie’s, Jordie’s.”

TIME WITH FAMILY & FRIENDS LONG OVERDUE FOR THESE TALENTED WOMEN

Now their schedules look very different. Instead of spending nights and weekends cooking for others, they’ll be able to spend that time with family and friends. That's something they often had to miss over the years.

Sonya has already started a new chapter, working with Cura of Minnesota, helping residents from care facilities and assisted living get to appointments and outings.

WHAT ABOUT JORDIE?

So what about Jordie? What will she do with her newfound retirement? She plans to spend time enjoying her gardens this spring and summer, along with family, friends, and a few beloved pets.

The building’s future is still unknown, but the heart of the place will remain with the people who filled it for so many years.

SHOWING THEIR SUPPORT OF OTHER LOCAL BUSINESSES IN BOWLUS

Before signing off, Jordie and Sonya also encouraged the community to continue supporting other local businesses in Bowlus, including Bowlus Liquor and Rahn’s Gas and Grocery, both offering food options for those looking for a bite to eat.

As for Jordie’s Trail Side Cafe, the message they left for the community was simple and sweet: “Toodles noodles; thank you for making the last 17 years on the trail memorable.”