Duluth's Burrito Union Sold, Rebranding as Tequila Bar

Burrito Union, the Fitger's complex staple that has anchored downtown Duluth dining for years, is changing hands. Rod Raymond and Marcy Wojick announced March 26 they have agreed to sell the restaurant to local restaurateur Fernando Duran, with the transaction set to close April 13, 2026. Under Duran, the space will be rebranded Burrito Union Tequila Bar, built around an expanded premium tequila program layered onto the restaurant's existing menu and atmosphere.

The Fitger's complex serves as a hub for downtown Duluth dining and tourism, and ownership changes at its anchor tenants draw attention from local hospitality observers tracking the city's economic health. Raymond and Wojick will redirect their energy toward their remaining Fitger's properties: Fitger's Brewhouse, The Rathskeller, and the recently opened Snively's Lounge. They also plan to expand event programming at Snively's, The Rathskeller, and the Barrel Room/Red Star venue within the complex. The pair have already completed a renovation of the Beer Store, which now features Minnesota-centric products and Fitger's Brewhouse beers.

Raymond reflected on the decision in a press release. "It has been an honor to build and grow Burrito Union alongside such an incredible team and community," he said. "I'm deeply grateful for the relationships and memories created here, and I'm confident that Fernando will continue to carry that spirit forward."

Duran framed the rebrand as an evolution rather than an overhaul. "I'm honored to step into this role and continue the Burrito Union tradition that so many people in Duluth know and love," he said. "As we transition into Burrito Union Tequila Bar, our goal is to build on that foundation, keeping the same energy, quality and welcoming experience, while elevating our tequila program and creating something fresh for our guests and community."

Burrito Union was founded on a vision of bringing people together over great food in a welcoming and laid-back atmosphere, language Duran has echoed in describing his plans. Raymond, Wojick, and Duran are working to protect staff and ensure service continuity through the April 13 transfer, though no specific staffing numbers, renovation timeline, or changes to operating hours have been announced.

The sale closes with the spring and summer tourism season approaching, a stretch that typically generates significant foot traffic through the Fitger's complex. Whether Duran's tequila-forward concept broadens Burrito Union's customer base will be one of the more closely watched developments in downtown Duluth's dining landscape this year.