The Depot and Baggage Claim opened its doors on March 11.

“The community response has been crazy,” Faken said. He said the newly renovated location is perfect for foot traffic but they’re currently navigating what large downtown events are going to look like inside the restaurant.

On April 30, the CPKC train, a restored 1930s steam train, is making a stop in downtown Minot directly next to the depot. In December, the CPKC Holiday Train and the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony also pose a similar situation.

“We want the doors to be open but I don’t know if we can necessarily be a restaurant those three nights. It’s going to have to be more of a come on in and maybe we’ll have a buffet setup. We’re not really sure how we’re going to do that,” Faken said.

The historic Soo Line Passenger Depot, now turned restaurant, is a jewel of downtown Minot. Originally built in 1912, the building was recently restored with help from the MAGIC Fund.

Prior to the opening of the restaurant, the depot was popular for graduation parties, anniversary parties and weddings.

“We don’t want to say no to anybody,” Faken said. He is working with the city to open the private room upstairs for events. He said the restaurant has capacity between 100-140 persons, and he believes the private event room will have an occupancy load of 45-50.

In addition to the areas in the main building, Faken said once Mother Nature allows more outdoor work to happen, they will begin work on the patio, which includes extending the existing fence for more family seating. They are currently finishing work in their second building that sits directly behind the depot, which will be the Baggage Claim bar and will be for ages 21 and older.

Faken said the Depot and Baggage Claim are partnering with the Railroad Museum of Minot, which sits across the street from the restaurant. The museum will loan historic signs and tools to display in the restaurant.

Faken said he purposely has minimal advertising on the walls for alcohol so more room for historic decor is available. Faken also mentioned the possibility of having an interactive tool display for children to play with while they’re waiting for their meals.

Faken said the relationship with the museum is a perfect union. Restaurant-goers will have the opportunity to enjoy some history while they dine and are within walking distance to visit the museum. Faken said they will have brochures near the entrance to encourage customers to take advantage of all the downtown family-friendly fun.

ND ranks best for business

For the second year in a row, North Dakota has landed on the top of Forbes Advisor’s Five Best States to Start a Business list. The list states North Dakota rose to the top because the environment is “notably welcoming” and the business survival rate sits at a healthy 77%. This factor coupled with

a cost of living index that sits lower than the national average makes North Dakota the perfect place to start a new business.