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Bowlus Today
By the People, for the People
Jordie's Trail Side Cafe In Bowlus Closes After 17 Years
The beloved family-run cafe is shutting its doors as the owners retire.
Mar. 13, 2026 at 2:51pm
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After 17 years of serving homemade meals and creating a warm, welcoming gathering place, Jordie's Trail Side Cafe in Bowlus, Minnesota is closing its doors. The cafe was run by three generations of the same family, who say they will miss the daily interactions with their loyal customers the most. While the building's future is uncertain, the owners are encouraging the community to continue supporting other local businesses in Bowlus.
Why it matters
Jordie's Trail Side Cafe was more than just a restaurant - it was a beloved community hub that provided comfort and connection for locals and travelers alike. Its closure marks the end of an era and highlights the challenges small, family-owned businesses can face, especially in rural areas. The story also underscores the importance of supporting local enterprises to maintain the unique character of a community.
The details
Jordie's Trail Side Cafe was run by three generations of the same family - grandmother, mother, and daughter - who worked side-by-side to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere and serve homemade meals. The owners say the decision to close came as Jordie, the grandmother, stepped into retirement. While running the cafe was hard work with long hours, the owners say every day was a blessing because of the people who walked through their doors.
- Jordie's Trail Side Cafe opened 17 years ago.
- The cafe announced it would not reopen this spring.
The players
Jordie
The grandmother who founded Jordie's Trail Side Cafe and is now retiring.
Sonya
Jordie's daughter, who helped run the family-owned cafe.
Bowlus Liquor
A local business in Bowlus that the owners of Jordie's encouraged the community to support.
Rahn's Gas and Grocery
Another local business in Bowlus that the owners of Jordie's encouraged the community to support.
What they’re saying
“Toodles noodles; thank you for making the last 17 years on the trail memorable.”
— Jordie and Sonya, Owners of Jordie's Trail Side Cafe
“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.'”
— Jordie and Sonya, Owners of Jordie's Trail Side Cafe
What’s next
The building's future is still unknown, but the owners have encouraged the community to continue supporting other local businesses in Bowlus.
The takeaway
The closure of Jordie's Trail Side Cafe is a bittersweet moment for the Bowlus community, as they say goodbye to a beloved gathering place that provided comfort, connection, and delicious homemade meals for 17 years. This story highlights the importance of supporting small, family-owned businesses to preserve the unique character of a local community.
