LUSH Lounge & Theater to Reopen this December Under New Ownership

Newly Remodeled LUSH Lounge & Theater Reopens With Betty & Earl’s In The Kitchen 

After an extended closure, LUSH Lounge & Theater is set to reopen under new ownership before the end of the year. In addition to the ownership changes, the kitchen is getting a new tenant as well with Betty & Earl’s taking over kitchen operations creating a fun and casual bar menu. 

New decorThe ownership team includes Andrew Rausch and Jared Lawrence. Rausch brings twenty years in the hospitality industry and twelve years performing as Crystal Belle. Lawrence owns and manages multiple businesses and has performed on stage for the last thirteen years as Nikki Vixxen. The pair will oversee operations and programming of all entertainment.  

"I am so excited to see the revival of this bar that has changed lives and brought so many together. To be able to open our doors and welcome a community to experience top-notch entertainment in a truly premier space is a dream come true,” said Rausch. “As a previous employee, I am thrilled to share the growth of LUSH! We have been working hard to create a new atmosphere filled with new and exciting experiences for everyone and I can't wait to share it with the Twin Cities!" 

“As an entrepreneur where my businesses focus on the guest experience, I am excited to bring that perspective to the leadership team,” said Lawrence. “I look forward to welcoming guests into our warmer and inviting space filled with vibrant colors, artistic details and textures, paired with great food and drink.” 

Rausch and Lawrence have partnered with Jason Matheson of FOX 9 and myTalk 107.1 and Betty and Earl’s co-owner, Jennifer Lueck, to purchase LUSH and the 11,000 square-foot building located on Central Avenue in Northeast Minneapolis for $2.6 million.

Jason Matheson

“This project combines so many dreams of mine that I’m overwhelmed with gratitude,” said Matheson. “Not only do I own a restaurant centered around my papaw’s name and biscuits, but having that restaurant inside of a venue that I’m a co-owner of is beyond exciting. As a member of the LGBTQ community, I’m thrilled to work with great people like Andrew and Jared to create a space that not only reflects our community but invites everyone to a space where all are welcome.” 

The menu at LUSH will, of course, feature Betty & Earl’s signature biscuits in a variety of sandwiches and sweets alongside other offerings.  

“I’m so excited for the next phase for Betty & Earl’s,” said Lueck. “The new menu will go beyond biscuits for an entirely new experience for not only Betty & Earl’s, but LUSH as well. As a resident of Northeast for the last eighteen years, I’m excited for the opportunity to work and invest in my own community.” 

LUSH Lounge & Theater is located at 990 Central Avenue NE and will be open Wednesday-Sunday. To view a full calendar of entertainment, see menus and more, visit lushmpls.com and follow them on social media @lushmpls.