Nestled along the bustling Highway 52 between Saint Paul and Rochester, Otto and Marie Hernke’s modest roadside diner, the Edgewood Cafe Motel, became an enduring culinary institution. Marie’s homemade pies, including the renowned lemon meringue, drew travelers and locals alike. With its mid-century charm and popular lutefisk buffet dinners, the Edgewood grew to become a top 5% gross profit earner among Minnesota restaurants, pulling in over $1 million in revenue by its closure in 2000.

This is the story of a family business, culinary passion, and a legacy etched in homemade goodness.