If you’ve ever walked past West Lake Street in Uptown Minneapolis and noticed the Cheba Hut sign collecting dust, you’re not alone. For a decade, locals have been wondering when—or if—the marijuana-themed toasted sub shop would ever open its doors. Now, after years of delays, false starts, and even an eviction, the answer is finally here: Cheba Hut is set to open in November 2025.
A Long Road to Uptown
Cheba Hut originally announced its plans to come to Minnesota in 2015, with Uptown as the flagship location. The process dragged on for years, and earlier this spring, the original franchisee was officially evicted from the space inside The Asher apartments at 1118 West Lake Street.
But new operators, Nick Reckinger and Matt Alexander, have stepped in. They already own several restaurants in Colorado, including Georgia Boys BBQ, and say Minneapolis is the perfect fit for Cheba Hut’s brand. They’ve completed franchise training and are overseeing the buildout, which is now about 80% finished.
What to Expect at Cheba Hut Uptown
The Uptown Cheba Hut will serve the chain’s quirky lineup of sandwiches with cannabis-inspired names like “White Widow” and “Sensi Kush.” In addition, the 2,680-square-foot space will include a 12-seat full-service bar, making it one of Uptown’s newest hangout destinations.
Reckinger and Alexander also hold rights for three Minnesota locations. After Uptown, they’re eyeing Dinkytown, Northeast Minneapolis, and St. Louis Park, with Duluth, Mankato, and St. Paul also under consideration.
Why This Matters for Uptown
For years, locals have joked that Cheba Hut was the “most Uptown thing ever”—a trendy restaurant that managed to close before even opening. But with this launch, that story is set to flip. Not only does this fill a long-empty space, it brings new energy to an Uptown food scene that’s been searching for a spark.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re excited for the sandwiches, the bar, or just happy to see something finally fill that long-teased space, Cheba Hut’s Uptown opening is a big moment for Minneapolis dining. And if it goes well, you can expect even more locations popping up across Minnesota soon.
As always, if you’re keeping an eye on more than just restaurants—like buying or selling your next home in Uptown, Northeast, or the east metro—I’d love to help guide your move.
