Popular Rochester Japanese Steakhouse Closes For Good

I've celebrated many occasions at Jenpachi Japanese Steakhouse in northeast Rochester. I have many great memories of hearing the owner sing happy birthday to customers, watching the chefs put on a show on the hibachi grill, and enjoying the complimentary saké. My favorite thing about Jenpachi was their sushi. Their sushi rolls were massive, always fresh, and tasted amazing with their famous lobster sauce.

Unfortunately, the restaurant has closed its doors and won't be reopening. Jeff Kiger from the Post Bulletin reported that Jenpachi closed for good last Saturday. Kiger reported that the owner, Charlie Zhao, told his deliver service that he just couldn't keep it open anymore.

In other news:

• One of Rochester's favorite winter events, Festival of Trees, will continue on in 2020 but due to Covid-19, it will not be held at the Mayo Civic Center.
• Olmsted County has experienced another coronavirus related death and another local long-term care facility has been added to the list of those that have seen at least one case of the new viral illness involving the staff and or residents.
• The Minnesota-based Target Corporation announced a permanent two dollar per hour increase in the company's minimum wage will take effect next month.