Rebel Cheese, a popular vegan cheese maker based in Austin, Texas, has announced the closure of its bistro located at 2200 Aldrich St., suite 120. The decision, communicated through a newsletter on December 16, reveals that the bistro will cease operations on December 24, 2023. Despite this setback, the company plans to continue its distribution through various channels, maintaining a significant presence in the vegan food market.
The newsletter reassured customers that the space will be taken over by a new plant-based business that aligns with Rebel Cheese’s values, although details about the incoming tenant remain undisclosed. The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation has not yet listed any new projects for that address.
Rebel Cheese expressed optimism about the transition, 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!” This sentiment reflects a commitment to the community and a smooth transition for customers.
In the lead-up to the closure, Rebel Cheese is offering a 20 percent discount on grocery items and wine until 15:00 on December 24. The company will continue to honor gift cards for online purchases, and customers can activate them by emailing [email protected].
Rebel Cheese has experienced rapid growth since its launch in 2019, though it faced significant challenges when the COVID-19 pandemic struck just three months after opening. The company pivoted to online sales and wholesale, expanding its reach significantly. Today, it operates from a 9,000-square-foot factory and distributes its products to hundreds of locations across the United States and Canada.
A notable highlight in the company’s journey was its participation in an episode of Shark Tank in 2023, where investors Mark Cuban and Lori Greiner acquired a 10 percent stake for $750,000. This exposure significantly boosted Rebel Cheese’s visibility in the market.
While the Austin bistro will be missed, customers can still visit Rebel Cheese’s remaining outlet in Manhattan, New York. The company emphasized its gratitude towards its loyal customers and team members, noting, “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 is shifting its focus towards e-commerce and wholesale distribution, aiming to strengthen its operations as it enters 2026. The company’s commitment to quality vegan products and community engagement remains strong, promising a bright future despite the closing of its bistro in Austin.
