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Long Beach bar & grill Minnesota’s opens new location in owner’s hometown of Patchogue

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Long Beach’s popular Minnesota’s restaurant and bar officially opened its doors in Patchogue on Wednesday, marking owner Vin Funaro’s return to his roots.

The restaurant, which serves American grille cuisine, beers from both coasts, and various margarita flavors, is now located at 76 West Main Street, the former home of Local Burger Co. The owners of Local Burger confirmed to Greater Long Island they’re moving their Patchogue location to a nearby town.

Funaro, who grew up in Patchogue, purchased Minnesota’s in 2018 when it was a successful nightclub. He transformed the establishment into a family-friendly spot in Long Beach before deciding to bring his vision to his hometown at the start of 2023.

“I reimagined Minnesota’s out there and I wanted to bring it to my hometown to reimagine it here,” Funaro told Greater Long Island. He added that his family has been in Patchogue for generations, with a street named after them in the area.

The new Minnesota’s location features beach-y murals and a surfboard bar top, all new and fresh for customers. Funaro says anyone and everyone is welcome at Minnesota’s, as it caters to all ages.

“I wanted to bring Long Beach and Patchogue together,” he said. “They’re similar — they’re both South Shore towns, both by the water, and both special to me.”

Funaro, who has been in the restaurant business for 26 years, will be splitting his time between both locations. Still, bringing Minnesota’s to Patchogue has a special meaning for him.

“I’m happy to be here,” he said. “I’m happy to be back home.”

Scroll down for photos of the new Minnesota’s in Patchogue.

Photos by Julianne Mosher

Top: Wrap and fries from Minnesota’s in Long Beach. (Credit: Minnesota’s Instagram)

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