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Taste Buds Expands with Retail Line of Brunch Favorites

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/01/29 .. xpands-with-retail-line-of-brunch-favorites.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Thursday, January 29th 2026 at 8:28 GMT by Fox 9
      Locales: Minnesota, UNITED STATES

Minneapolis, MN - January 29, 2026 - Local favorite Taste Buds, celebrated for its consistently praised brunch offerings, is taking a significant step forward by expanding its business model. The popular eatery, which began as a vibrant pop-up venture, will now offer a retail line of its signature brunch items and beloved home bakes to customers across Minneapolis. This move signifies not only a broadening of the Taste Buds brand but also a commitment to bringing its unique culinary creations directly into the homes of its devoted fanbase.

Taste Buds initially captured the hearts (and stomachs) of Minneapolis residents through a series of successful pop-up events. These temporary locations allowed the business to refine its menu, build a loyal following, and gather crucial feedback before committing to a more permanent expansion. The response, according to owner Maria Urueta, was overwhelmingly positive. "We started as a pop-up, and the response has been incredible," Urueta stated. "We're excited to be able to share our home bakes with the community in a new way."

While details are still being finalized, the new retail line is expected to feature a curated selection of Taste Buds' most popular brunch dishes and baked goods, specially packaged for convenient purchase. This could include pre-made mixes for their famous pancake batter, signature spice blends used in savory brunch staples, artisanal jams and preserves, or even fully baked items like muffins, scones, and cookies - all echoing the quality and flavor profile that have defined the Taste Buds experience. Industry analysts predict this retail expansion will allow Taste Buds to capitalize on the growing "foodie" trend, where consumers actively seek out high-quality, locally-sourced, and unique food products to enjoy at home.

The decision to move into retail isn't solely about profit margins, although increased revenue is certainly a welcome outcome. It's about accessibility. The pop-up model, while effective for building buzz and establishing a brand, limited the opportunity for consistent access to Taste Buds' offerings. A retail presence allows the business to reach customers who may not be able to dine in at their brick-and-mortar location (when/if they expand beyond just the retail line) or who simply prefer the convenience of preparing a Taste Buds-inspired brunch in their own kitchens.

This expansion also comes at a time when "comfort food" and home baking are experiencing a resurgence in popularity. The past few years have seen a renewed appreciation for simple pleasures, and the act of baking, in particular, has become a source of relaxation and creativity for many. Taste Buds is cleverly positioning itself to tap into this trend by offering pre-made components and finished products that allow customers to recreate the flavors they love without the extensive time commitment.

Beyond simply offering products, Taste Buds has an opportunity to build a community around its retail line. Potential marketing strategies could include recipe sharing online, cooking demonstrations, and collaborations with local grocery stores and food bloggers. Building online engagement through platforms like Instagram and TikTok, showcasing creative ways to use their products, could prove invaluable in driving sales and brand loyalty. The key will be to maintain the authenticity and high standards that have made Taste Buds a success from the beginning.

Urueta emphasized the company's commitment to quality and authenticity, stating that the retail line will maintain the same standards as their original brunch offerings. This is crucial, as consumers are increasingly discerning and expect consistency between restaurant experiences and store-bought products. The long-term success of this expansion will hinge on Taste Buds' ability to deliver on that promise. The expansion clearly reflects Taste Buds' remarkable growth trajectory and sustained success, signaling a bright future for the Minneapolis-based business and a delicious new option for local food lovers.