SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC News) – Strong Hearts Cafe that has built a loyal fan base of vegans is closing.
The decision did not come easy to co-owners Joel Capolongo and Nick Ryan.
The closure comes after prolonged periods of costs exceeding revenue, Capolongo said.
After 18 years of dedication to serving the Syracuse area as one of the only fully vegan dining options, the duo decided to step away from the industry.
“My business partner, Nick, and I have given everything we have to give for the last 18 years, and there’s just no more left in the tank,” he says.
When Strong Hearts Cafe opened in 2008, it was the only fully vegan restaurant.
July 18 marks the last day for the business to serve up its “chicken” wings, milkshakes, salads and more.
Many customers who cherished the restaurant for much more than its vegan offerings have taken to social media to express their sadness for the cafe’s closing.
The closure of Strong Hearts Cafe leaves the vegan community with slimmer options for the coming years.