A popular vegan cheese shop in Austin, known as Rebel Cheese, has announced the closure of its bistro located at 2200 Aldrich St., Suite 120. The decision was revealed in a newsletter sent out on December 16, stating that the bistro will officially close its doors on December 24.
Despite this closure, Rebel Cheese is not exiting the market entirely. The company has a robust distribution network that extends well beyond its physical location. The upcoming tenant for the bistro space is also a plant-based business, which Rebel Cheese assures shares its values. While the name of the new business has not been disclosed, the newsletter hints at an exciting transition for the space.
In its newsletter, the company expressed enthusiasm for the change, stating, “Their delicious products and experience are acclaimed by vegans and non-vegans alike, and we are so thrilled, as Austinites, to know we’ll be able to enjoy their food here in ATX!” Current offerings from Rebel Cheese will remain available, including popular sandwiches, as part of the deli case.
As the closure date approaches, customers can take advantage of a 20 percent discount on grocery items and wine until 15:00 on December 24. Gift cards will still be valid for online purchases, and customers can easily activate them by emailing [email protected].
Rebel Cheese has experienced significant growth since its inception in 2019. The company faced challenges early on due to the Covid-19 pandemic, which prompted a shift toward online sales and wholesale distribution. Now, Rebel Cheese operates from a 9,000-square-foot factory and distributes its products to hundreds of locations across the United States and Canada.
The brand gained additional recognition after appearing on Shark Tank in 2023, where investors Mark Cuban and Lori Greiner invested $750,000 for a 10 percent stake in the company. This investment has helped propel the brand forward in the competitive plant-based market.
While the closure of the Austin bistro marks a significant change, Rebel Cheese continues to operate its remaining location in Manhattan, New York. The company expressed gratitude for the support it has received, stating, “Though we are still a small team, we’ve been so fortunate to have seen such growth and the loyalty of team members and customers alike.”
Looking ahead, Rebel Cheese aims to concentrate on e-commerce, wholesale distribution, and its New York location as it embarks on a new chapter in 2026. The company’s commitment to plant-based products remains strong, ensuring that loyal customers will continue to enjoy its offerings in various forms.
