Jester Concepts purchases Rustica Bakery & Cafe

Change is coming to Rustica Bakery & Cafe.

The Twin Cities bakery, which launched in 2004 and was purchased by Greg Hoyt in 2015, has been purchased by Jester Concepts , the restaurant group behind Parlour, P.S. Steak, Borough, and other eateries. The group acquires its wholesale operation as well as its bakeries in Minneapolis (3220 West Lake St.) and Edina (200 Southdale Center, Suite A).

The connections go beyond Rustica providing bread to Jester restaurants. The group has had its eye on Rustica for years, according to the announcement. The pandemic sidetracked discussions, but Rustica is now under the Jester canopy.

Hoyt, who will remain with Rustica in an advisory capacity during the transition, believes that there's room for Rustica to grow beyond its two locations and scale is something that Jester Concepts can provide.

"I am thrilled that Jester Concepts has acquired Rustica," Hoyt says. "I have known the team for years and am confident they have a true understanding of quality, execution and customer loyalty for this brand. I look forward to seeing where they will take it over the years to come."

Meanwhile, Jester Concepts plans to expand Rustica's presence, targeting new locations in the suburbs with at least one planned for 2025, the Star Tribune reports .

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They also plan to put more savory items on the breakfast and lunch menu and have already begun expanding Rustica's presence in the group's other restaurants.

While that's a lot of change up front, the new owners don't plan to do away with any of Rustica's beloved bakery items. "Jester Concepts is committed to maintaining Rustica's brand and standards, assuring Rustica's loyal patrons there are no plans for significant changes to its operations, culture, or identity," the company said in its announcement.

So, those bittersweet chocolate cookies aren't going anywhere.