Zen Box in the Skyway Has Closed

it was the first restaurant for Lina Goh and John Ng. The two had moved to Minneapolis with the crazy dream of serving Japanese cuisine beyond the ubiquitous sushi. That dream expanded with their second eatery, Zen Box Izakaya, which is still in full operation on Washington Avenue.

After nearly a decade in business, a pile of awards and countless gyoza served, the duo made the difficult decision to shutter the bento-box sized first restaurant. "Yes, our skyway location has closed," confirmed Goh. "It has been a wonderful 11 years, but it's time for us to move out of the skyway. This will allow us to focus on the operation of our Izakaya restaurant and potentially a new project." She was mum on the details on this new project, but there is potential for a new eatery in the future, likely outside of the elevated maze that connects downtown Minneapolis businesses.

For now, Ng and Goh are turning focus to the Izakaya and the annual Ramen Attacks! event. "John will continue to focus on his passion- ramen!" Goh told Eater. Ramen chefs from around the country will travel to Minnesota and serve up the brothy goods. The chefs for the event are being confirmed and details will soon be released.