Brent Frederick is a founder, restaurateur, and design-driven visionary with more than two decades in hospitality. His passion for the industry began while serving and bartending during his years at the University of Minnesota, where he discovered a deep appreciation for thoughtful food, inspired beverage programs, and the power of genuine hospitality.

As Owner and Visionary of Jester Concepts, Brent leads the creation and growth of some of the Twin Cities’ most notable restaurants and bakery-coffee shops. His responsibilities span the full development cycle — from site selection, lease negotiation, capital sourcing, concept creation to construction oversight and long-term strategic planning. Drawing on his architectural background, Brent plays a hands-on role in the design and brand development of every Jester property, curating materials, found objects, and visual details that bring each space to life with character and intention.

Under Brent’s leadership, community impact remains a core part of Jester Concepts.  Brent serves on the board of the Aim Higher Foundation. Aim Higher is a nonprofit dedicated to expanding access to quality Catholic K–8 education for children from low-income and working-class families across the Twin Cities. Through need-based scholarships that follow students through 8th grade, Aim Higher helps remove financial barriers and provides children with the opportunity for academic, moral, and personal growth. Brent’s involvement supports the Foundation’s mission to uplift underserved families and empower the next generation of citizens who may not otherwise have access to a transformative education.

Jester also maintains a meaningful partnership with Masonic Children’s Hospital, which provides life-changing pediatric care to children and families across Minnesota. Their mission extends beyond treatment — offering family support programs, child-life services, and innovative research that improves outcomes for some of the region’s most vulnerable patients. Through contributions of food, funds, and space, Brent and Jester Concepts help strengthen the hospital’s ability to deliver comfort, dignity, and hope to families navigating challenging moments.

For Brent, the greatest reward of opening and owning restaurants is the opportunity to build community — creating spaces where guests feel at home, where staff become family, and where hospitality becomes a catalyst for connection, belonging, and positive change.