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Apr 07, 2025

Blue Plate co-owner David Burley dies in motorcycle crash | kare11.com

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ST. CROIX COUNTY, Wis. — A restaurant group that includes the Highland Grill, Groveland Tap, and the Freehouse, among others, is mourning after its co-owner was killed in a motorcycle crash on Sunday.

David Burley was killed in the crash on I-94 westbound in Wisconsin's St. Croix County, according to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation and a release from the group.

"David was the heart and soul of Blue Plate — a visionary leader and a joyful, generous spirit who made everyone feel welcome," said the company's statement.

Burley began his restaurant ownership with the Highland Grill with Stephanie Shimp in 1993.

"Two servers working together at The Nicollet Island Inn during the 1990s honed their skills at one of the Twin Cities' premier restaurant/hotels. After work hours, David Burley and Stephanie Shimp dreamed up the idea for what became the Highland Grill," reads the company's website.

The Highland Grill proved to be just the beginning for the pair, who would go on to operate several restaurants, including the grill.

The other restaurants operated by the Blue Plate Group are the Groveland Tap, Longfellow Grill, Edina Grill, 3 Squares, The Lowry, The Freehouse, Mercury Dining Room and Rail. The company also operated the Blue Barn at the Minnesota State Fair and the Shindig Event Center, according to its website.

All of the restaurants will be closed on Monday to honor Burley, said the release.