Sage Regenerative Kitchen & Brewery, a California restaurant known for its vegan roots, is shutting down after facing backlash from activists over its decision to add meat to the menu. The business, with locations in Pasadena and Echo Park, is closing on Sunday after 14 years, citing financial difficulties and growing protests.
Owner Mollie Engelhart introduced items like bison burgers and cheese to appeal to a broader customer base, emphasizing the use of regenerative farming methods to minimize environmental impact. However, the move sparked outrage among some vegans, who accused the restaurant of betraying its principles. Activists bombarded Sage with negative online reviews and criticism, including harsh comments on social media.
One critic wrote, “You are guilty of crimes against compassion… Sad and hypocritical and karma deserving.” Protesters also disrupted operations, with video footage showing individuals holding “Meat Is Murder” signs inside the restaurant and fake blood smeared on the sidewalk outside.
Engelhart’s efforts to balance sustainability and menu diversity failed to stem the tide of criticism. In a social media post announcing the closure, Sage thanked patrons for their support over the years, writing, “Thank you for 14 incredible years of support. With love from the Sage family, Mollie & Elias, we say goodbye.”
While some celebrated the closure as a win for animal rights, others criticized the activists’ behavior, calling it “disruptive and inhumane.” One supporter of the restaurant condemned the treatment of Sage’s staff and owners, suggesting the activists’ actions were counterproductive to their cause.
Sage Regenerative Kitchen & Brewery’s closure highlights the tension between expanding business operations and maintaining ideological consistency, particularly in the competitive restaurant industry.
