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A new Rochester restaurant seems to be defying all the odds. 

 opened downtown this summer, despite a pandemic that has much of their customer base working from home, heavy construction that can make parking and getting to the restaurant a challenge, and a labor shortage that is troubling many in the hospitality industry. 

Yet, owners Annie and Ryan Balow are managing to fill tables and staff positions. Part of their success lies in building a loyal following before opening their doors, through popups going back to 2014. 

MPR News reporter Catharine Richert recently met up with chef Annie Balow.

To hear their conversation, click play on the audio player above.

Catharine Richert

Author

Megan Burks

Tom Crann

Host

For years, owners Annie and Ryan Balow built a loyal following through popups. Now, it seems to be paying off at their new downtown restaurant.

ThaiPop offers a bright spot in pandemic-weary, construction-heavy Rochester

Two people stand in a photo inside a restaurant.

ThaiPop offers a bright spot in pandemic-weary, construction-heavy Rochester

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