Revival, the Southern-inspired fried chicken restaurant that closed abruptly in January 2025, is coming back. Jester Concepts will reopen it on November 9 at 730 Washington Ave. N. in the Minneapolis North Loop, in the space that used to be Borough. Here’s what changed, what’s on the menu, and what to do if you’re still holding a gift card.
How Revival Got a Second Chance
When Revival closed all three of its Twin Cities locations, the former owners said they couldn’t find a path forward that was financially responsible to their staff and costs. Those spaces didn’t sit empty long. Inti Kitchen & Bar took over the south Minneapolis location, Aubergine moved into the St. Paul spot, and Daniel Del Prado’s Rosalia filled the St. Louis Park space.
In July 2025, Minneapolis-based Jester Concepts bought the Revival brand. Jester has been acquiring restaurant brands since 2021, including Rustica and Butcher and the Boar. Co-owner Brent Frederick explained the strategy plainly: a brand-new concept takes years to build customer loyalty, while an established brand has already done that work. Founders Nick Rancone and Thomas Boemer kept an equity stake in future locations.
What to Expect at the North Loop Revival
The menu centers on the fried chicken and Southern comfort food Revival built its reputation on, with new dishes mixed in. Jester’s Mike DeCamp said the goal is to honor what people loved about the original while bringing something fresh.
Drinks include:
- Jazzy Belle sparkling wine
- Bourbon Sweet Tea
- Pryes Thunder Chicken Golden Ale
- Cocktail pitchers made for sharing
Reservations are already open online, so if you want a table during opening week, book early.
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Gift Card Holders: Act by Oct. 18
If you still have a Revival gift card, this part matters. Jester Concepts says it did not receive any of the money from gift card sales when it acquired the restaurant. It is asking gift card holders to complete a form by October 18.
The announcement doesn’t spell out what happens after you submit. Fill out the form before the deadline and hang on to your card.
Why This Reopening Matters for Twin Cities Diners
The Twin Cities fried chicken scene looks very different than it did when Revival first opened. Back then, Heavy Table called it one of the most anticipated restaurant openings in Minnesota. Since then, Dave’s Hot Chicken has expanded here, and concepts like Nashville Coop, Official Fried Chicken, Abang Yoli and bb.q chicken have joined the field.
That makes this reopening worth watching. Jester is betting that name recognition and a loyal following matter more than being first. The North Loop location is the first test. Jester has said it expects Revival could grow to three or four Twin Cities locations over time, so the results here will shape where the brand goes next.
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