Joe’s Sports Bar, Pizza and African Deli to Replace Godfather’s Pizza in Brooklyn Park

BROOKLYN PARK, MN

A long-standing Godfather’s Pizza location in Brooklyn Park has closed and will be replaced by a new locally owned establishment, Joe’s Sports Bar, Pizza and African Deli, marking a transition from a national franchise to a hybrid, community-based concept.

The restaurant at 7450 Unity Ave. N. served its final customers on March 22, 2026, ending what had been a decades-long presence at the site. The most recent owner, Roger Backstrom, retired after operating the location for nearly 20 years.

Property Sale and Redevelopment

Property records and local business filings indicate the building was sold in late March 2026 for approximately $825,000 to Joe Jarbah, a Brooklyn Park entrepreneur known locally as the owner of Boss Kuts barbershop.

Jarbah plans to reopen the nearly 5,000-square-foot space in July 2026, following a full interior remodel.

Business Concept

The new establishment will combine three elements under one operation:

• Sports bar
• Pizza restaurant
• African deli

According to business plans shared locally, the menu is expected to include both traditional American bar offerings and West African cuisine.

Expected offerings include:

• African dishes: cassava leaves, potato greens, collard greens, and jollof rice
• American fare: pizza, pasta, burgers, wings, and fries

Sports Bar Component

The venue is designed to function as a sports-focused gathering space, with multiple televisions planned for coverage of professional and collegiate sports, including football, basketball, hockey, soccer, and baseball.

Additional features are expected to include regulated gaming options such as Minnesota pull tabs, consistent with state-licensed bar operations.

Local Business Shift

The transition reflects a broader shift in suburban commercial corridors, where independently owned businesses are replacing national franchise locations. The redevelopment maintains active use of the property while introducing a concept tailored to local demand.

Brooklyn Park, one of Minnesota’s most diverse cities, has seen continued growth in businesses reflecting a wider range of cultural offerings. The inclusion of an African deli component aligns with demographic and consumer trends within the community.

Opening Timeline

Renovation work is expected to continue through the spring, with an anticipated opening in mid-summer 2026. Final licensing approvals, including food service and alcohol permits, will be required prior to opening.

City officials have not released additional statements on the project, but the redevelopment will return a vacant restaurant site to active use and expand dining and gathering options for residents.

MinneapoliMedia | Community. Culture. Civic Life.