Delaware North partners with celebrity chef Justin Sutherland to open Northern Soul restaurant at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport; restaurant aims to offer unique takes on Southern classics

A St. Paul native, renowned chef, restaurateur and Emmy-nominated television personality – Justin Sutherland – has unveiled his latest culinary venture in partnership with Delaware North at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP). The occasion was marked by a grand opening celebration.

 

Sutherland and Delaware North on Sept. 6 introduced Northern Soul restaurant, situated on the second level of Terminal 1. Delaware North oversees the management of a diverse portfolio of foodservice and retail concepts at the airport, including establishments such as Angel Food Bakery, Twins Grill, Words Bookstore and Adventure North (adjacent to Northern Soul).

Northern Soul has two brick-and-mortar locations, one at Uptown Ties Rooftop & Lounge in Minneapolis and one at The Preserve at Grand View Lodge in Nisswa. The airport restaurant is Sutherland’s first standalone venture at the airport, and it will offer his unique takes on Southern classics.

“We’re thrilled to partner with such a dynamic chef for our latest opening,” said Pia McDonough, general manager for Delaware North at MSP. “Justin’s culinary creations showcase the very best of our roots, which locals will love to see and travelers will love to try.”

Sutherland is well known throughout the culinary community. Food and family inspired him to pursue his passion and develop his career as a chef. Sutherland is also the culinary consultant for Allianz Field, home of Major League Soccer’s Minnesota United, where Delaware North also provides foodservice.

“We’re always looking to bring the best of the Twin Cities to MSP, and we’re thrilled Justin Sutherland – one of the region’s top chefs – has partnered with Delaware North to bring Northern Soul to the airport,” said Isabella Rhawie, assistant director of concessions and business development for the Metropolitan Airports Commission. “The Northern Soul concept offers local travelers and guests to the Twin Cities an opportunity to experience Chef Sutherland’s creative, Southern-inspired menu that gives passengers another reason to show up early to the airport.”

Sutherland is a nationally recognized celebrity chef and entrepreneur who is the co-host of the syndicated Fast Foodies (TruTV, Food Network); an executive producer and recently Emmy-nominated host of Taste the Culture (TruTV/HBO Max); a judge on Guy’s Grocery Games, Beat Bobby Flay, Kitchen Crash, Chopped and Guy’s Ranch Kitchen; and a notable Food Network Iron Chef winner and season finalist on Top Chef: Kentucky. Sutherland is also a Food Network Tournament of Champions season two competitor; a First We Feast competitor; and a Relish contributor. He’s been featured on national TV shows, including The Today Show, Good Morning America, Tamron Hall, Rachael Ray and the Drew Barrymore Show. Sutherland’s cookbook, Northern Soul, is available now from Quarto Publishing Group.
 
Sutherland has also been recognized by local and national publications for his contributions to the culinary world, his philanthropic endeavors and his community involvement. He’s been awarded the 2019 Charlie Award for Outstanding Chef, an annual event celebrating the exceptional contributions of the Twin Cities-area restaurant, food and beverage industry. He’s also a two-time Best New Restaurant winner from MSP Magazine.

“The MSP airport has always been a special place for me,” Sutherland said. “Growing up, it was the place where my mom went to work for over 40 years. As an adult, I spend a large part of my life in and out of airports, and every time I travel, I’m reminded why MSP is the best in the country.

“A large part of what makes it the best is the food program, which is why I am honored to work with Delaware North and contribute to the already amazing food story with the addition of Northern Soul. One thing I know for sure, is that no matter where you’re from, there’s nothing better than some good fried chicken.”

About Delaware North
Delaware North is a global leader in the hospitality and entertainment industry. The company annually serves more than a half-billion guests across three continents, including at high-profile sports venues, airports, national and state parks, restaurants, resorts, hotels, and casinos. Building on more than a century of enduring partnerships and a commitment to local communities and sustainability, Delaware North’s vision is to delight guests by creating the world’s best experiences today while reimagining tomorrow. Learn more at www.DelawareNorth.com and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.

About the Metropolitan Airports Commission
The Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC) owns and operates one of the nation’s largest airport systems, including Minneapolis-St Paul International and six general aviation airports. The MAC’s airports connect the region to the world and showcase Minnesota’s extraordinary culture to millions of passengers from around the globe who arrive or depart through MAC airports each year. Though a public corporation of the state of Minnesota, the organization is not funded by income or property taxes. Instead, the MAC’s operations are funded by rents and fees generated by users of its airports. For more information, visit https://metroairports.org/.