The Vancouver food scene had some major losses in 2024, and unfortunately, it looks like the closures show no sign of stopping in 2025.
Just in the first two weeks of the new year, we’ve seen plenty of new and longstanding spots that have closed their doors, whether it was from rent increases or simply a concept that did not match the area.
Here’s a roundup of some of the restaurants that have recently closed in and around Vancouver.
Closed
Vegas Donuts
Just five months after initially opening, Vegas Donuts has closed its latest location with plans to move to Maple Ridge.
Owner of Vegas Donuts, Mike McBean, confirmed to Dished that the shop will be moving its 1610 Robson Street location to 22361 Lougheed Highway, Maple Ridge, with a grand opening planned for later this January. However, McBean did not provide a reason for the move.
Address: 1610 Robson Street, Vancouver
Hive Cafe
While the cafe has yet to make a formal announcement on its social media, the windows for the spot have been papered up, and it’s currently listed as “Temporarily Closed” on Google.
Dished reached out to Hive Cafe for more information but has not heard back.
Other recent closures in New Westminster include Hub Restaurant (which has since turned into Big Way Hot Pot’s latest location) and Fratelli Bakery.
Address: 609 Front St, New Westminster
Horangee Sikdang
Toronto-based new-wave Korean bistro Horangee Sikdang, which opened its doors in July 2024, has closed just five months later.
The restaurant has yet to make an announcement of the closure, but it is currently listed as Permanently Closed on Google.
However, a new restaurant has already moved into the space.
Address: 1184 Denman Street #203, Vancouver
Grains Fish Noodle
Grains Fish Noodle specializes in fish and grain noodle soups, which are made with pork and fish broth and special multigrain noodles.
On December 15, Grains Fish Noodle closed its Kingsway location. This was its only Vancouver location, but it still has two outposts in Richmond and one in Burnaby.
Address: 2427 Kingsway, Vancouver
Closing soon
Aphrodite Organic Cafe
Longstanding Kitsilano staple Aphrodite Organic Cafe will be closing for good on Sunday, February 2, 2025, after over 20 years of serving the community.
“After many years of being a beloved destination in Kitsilano, the rising costs of doing business has simply become too much for us to continue,” said the cafe. “We want to take these last couple of weeks to honour and celebrate our amazing staff, our wonderful customers and our incredible products.”
Address: 3605 W 4th Avenue, Vancouver
Kulinarya Filipino Eatery
Kulinarya Filipino Eatery, best known for its Kamayan-style dining, a Filipino meal eaten with your hands instead of plates and cutlery, announced it will be closing its Coquitlam location.
“We are deeply grateful to the Coquitlam community for embracing us, supporting us, and being a part of our journey. Your love and encouragement have been the heart of Kulinaryas,” continued the restaurant.
But don’t worry; its Vancouver location at 1134 Commercial Drive will remain open.
Address: 114-292 Glen Drive, Coquitlam
Ju Restaurant
Ju Restaurant, located at 782 Cambie Street, Vancouver, opened its doors on July 4, 2024. The space was previously occupied by Black Rice Izakaya, which closed its doors after 10 years of operation.
“I know it only lasted six months,” said general manager Young Shin, “but it also was enough time to learn that the concept and type of cuisine does not belong in the neighbourhood.”
Ju Restaurant will operate until Sunday, January 19.
Address: 782 Cambie Street, Vancouver
Liberte Cafe and Restaurant
Liberte Cafe and Restaurant took to Instagram to announce that it will close its doors in February 2025.
“After many wonderful years of serving you, the landlord has decided to increase our rent exorbitantly, and we will not renew our lease due to the unfair rent increase,” said the restaurant. “Since our government has no limitations on excessive rent increases, we ask that our loyal community continue to support local long-standing family businesses as a way of community action and awareness of the injustices when landlords prioritize capital over community.”
Address: 3670 Vanness Avenue, Vancouver