A Minneapolis restaurant became the focus of a federal investigation after receiving millions of dollars in child nutrition funds based on reported meal counts, according to documents and video shared online.
Records show the business claimed to be serving between 4,000 and 6,000 children per day through a federally funded meal program. Based on those figures, the restaurant received approximately $12 million in reimbursements.
Due to the unusually high numbers, federal investigators placed the location under surveillance for several weeks. The goal was to observe daily activity and determine whether the reported meal volume matched what was happening on site.
According to information tied to the investigation, surveillance footage showed a far smaller number of people visiting the restaurant during observed periods, averaging only a few dozen individuals.
The discrepancy between reported meal counts and observed foot traffic raised questions about whether the claims accurately reflected real activity. Authorities have not publicly released final conclusions regarding the case.
Federal officials routinely monitor and audit participants in government-funded programs to ensure taxpayer funds are used appropriately and in accordance with program rules.
No charges have been announced at this time, and investigators have not disclosed whether additional locations are under review.
The video has since circulated widely online, prompting renewed debate over oversight, accountability, and safeguards within federally funded assistance programs.
