Unity Diner Announces Permanent Closure in 2025

London-based vegan restaurant Unity Diner has revealed it will be shutting its doors permanently in the new year. Founded in 2018 by renowned animal rights activist and author Ed Winters, also known as Earthling Ed, the restaurant has become well-known for its plant-based takes on classic dishes such as fish and chips and mac and cheese.  

According to a social media statement from Unity Diner, rising costs—exacerbated by the financial strain brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic—have led to the difficult decision to close. The restaurant will officially cease operations on February 1, 2025. 

“Restaurant closures are currently at their highest levels in over a decade,” the statement noted. “A total of 1,409 eateries closed their doors in the year ending September 2024, compared to 1,180 the year prior. The state of hospitality in the UK is beyond anything we anticipated, and we’re proud to have persevered for as long as we have."  

The Unity Diner team expressed their gratitude and pride in their work over the past six years, particularly in bringing vegan cuisine to thousands of non-vegan customers.  

Support From the Vegan Community  

The closure announcement has drawn an outpouring of support from the vegan community. Activist Joey Carbstrong, known for his work on the platform *Pignorant*, expressed sadness over the news, while Michelin-star vegan chef Alexis Gauthier commended the diner for its remarkable contribution to raising awareness about animal welfare.  

Supporting Surge Sanctuary  

Unity Diner has also long supported Surge Sanctuary, a refuge for rescued farm animals, and is encouraging fans of the restaurant to continue supporting the sanctuary’s efforts. In their post, they urged supporters to consider becoming monthly donors to help care for the animals under Surge Sanctuary’s care.

“Any support is immensely appreciated and critically needed to continue our work,” the team wrote.  

For those who wish to contribute, more information on supporting Surge Sanctuary can be found through Unity Diner’s platforms.  

A Legacy of Advocacy  

Over the years, Unity Diner has made a name for itself not only as a destination for delicious vegan fare but also as a hub for advocacy, championing plant-based diets and animal rights. Despite its closure, the impact it made on the growing vegan movement in London and beyond will undoubtedly endure.