The success of Highland Grill marked the beginning of what would grow into the Blue Plate Restaurant Company—a group of vibrant, community-oriented eateries that became cornerstones in neighborhoods across the metro area.
Among their early additions were the Groveland Tap, a casual bar known for its burgers and beer selection, and the Longfellow Grill, which became a neighborhood mainstay along the Mississippi River.
Each restaurant reflected Burley and Shimp’s commitment to creating warm, welcoming environments that offered high-quality food and a sense of community.
Together, Burley and Shimp built an impressive roster of restaurants under the Blue Plate name, including Edina Grill, 3 Squares in Maple Grove, The Lowry in Uptown Minneapolis, and The Freehouse, a brewpub located in the North Loop.
Their partnership also extended to the Minnesota State Fair, where The Blue Barn became a popular destination for fairgoers, known for its creative and indulgent food offerings.
In a written statement released Sunday evening, Stephanie Shimp—Burley’s former wife and longtime business partner—expressed the profound loss felt by all who knew him. “My heart is absolutely broken by the devastating news of David’s passing,” she wrote.
“Losing him so suddenly is overwhelming – a painful shock that has left me and our entire Blue Plate family grieving a loss too deep for words. David’s passion and kindness were the foundation of everything we built together. We will profoundly miss his spirit, energy and irreplaceable presence.”
Burley was more than just a successful restaurateur; he was a mentor, a leader, and a deeply compassionate person. Colleagues and employees often spoke of his infectious energy and the genuine care he showed for everyone who worked with him.
His approach to business was people-first—believing that a restaurant’s success was rooted not just in great food and service, but in treating employees with respect and empowering them to grow.
Under Burley’s leadership, Blue Plate became known not just for its restaurants, but for its workplace culture. The company offered benefits rarely seen in the hospitality industry, including paid time off and health insurance for full-time workers, setting a higher standard in an often unpredictable field.
David Burley leaves behind a lasting legacy in the Twin Cities restaurant scene. Through his vision, hard work, and unwavering belief in community, he helped shape the culinary landscape of Minneapolis-St. Paul.
While his death is a profound loss, the restaurants he created and the people he inspired will continue to honor his memory. His spirit lives on in every dish served, every guest welcomed, and every employee who carries forward the values he held dear.
