A devastating loss struck Minnesota’s restaurant community as David Burley, co-founder and co-owner of Blue Plate Restaurant Co., tragically passed away in a motorcycle accident on Sunday, April 6, in Wisconsin. The company confirmed his death in a heartfelt statement, calling it a “devastating loss” for both the company and the community. Burley, who was an integral part of Blue Plate Restaurant Co.’s success, was known for his passion, creativity, and larger-than-life presence.
The accident occurred while Burley was riding his vintage 1949 Vincent RS motorcycle. According to preliminary reports from the Wisconsin State Patrol, the incident was the result of reckless driving by a 33-year-old driver from Brooklyn Park, who attempted to pass traffic on the right shoulder of the road. The driver struck a guardrail, veered back into the lane of travel, and collided directly with Burley. Both vehicles then crossed the road and crashed into a concrete barrier in the median. It was also noted that the driver of the Infiniti G25 had been drinking, though further investigation is ongoing.
Stephanie Shimp, Burley’s long-time business partner and co-founder of Blue Plate Restaurant Co., expressed her heartbreak over the sudden loss in a public statement. She described Burley as a passionate and kind man whose presence was essential to the success of their company. She added that his loss was deeply painful, not only for her personally but also for the entire Blue Plate team, calling it a loss beyond words.
Burley’s entrepreneurial journey began in 1993 when he and Shimp co-founded the Highland Grill in St. Paul, Minnesota. Starting with their saved tip money, they built a hospitality empire that expanded into Blue Plate Restaurant Co., now home to several beloved restaurants in Minnesota, including Freehouse, The Lowry, Longfellow Grill, and Edina Grill. While their romantic relationship ended years ago, Burley and Shimp maintained a strong business partnership, which helped solidify their place in Minnesota’s hospitality landscape.
As a tribute to Burley, all Blue Plate restaurants were closed on Monday, April 7. The restaurant group paid tribute to Burley, acknowledging the central role he played in the company’s success and the positive impact he had on everyone he encountered. He was known for his hands-on approach to customer service, even sharing his personal contact information to engage directly with guests and respond to feedback.
Outside of the restaurant world, Burley was an adventurer with a zest for life. He was an avid motorcyclist, scuba diver, traveler, and pilot, with a passion for flying planes and caring for his cats. His Instagram bio, which proudly listed his interests, was a reflection of his adventurous spirit and love for exploration. Burley’s loss leaves a significant void in Minnesota’s restaurant industry, but his legacy will live on through the businesses he built, the people he inspired, and the community he fostered.
As friends, colleagues, and customers mourn his untimely passing, they remember David Burley for his vibrant energy, dedication to hospitality, and the joy he brought to so many. His impact on the industry and his legacy will be felt for years to come.