Millennium, SF's Only Vegan Fine-Dining Restaurant, To Close After 20 Years

It's the end of an era: San Francisco's only vegan fine-dining restaurant, Millennium, is closing at the end of April. After over 20 years at their location in the Hotel California, owners Larry and Ann Wheat have decided to retire, a decision strongly influenced by the recent sale of the property.

When the Hotel California, was recently acquired by Seattle-based Pineapple Hospitality, the new management made the decision to nix the idea of a restaurant on the property altogether. Thus, when its lease comes up this spring, Millennium will close its doors forever.

Although vegans and enlightened carnivores alike will be sad to see the restaurant shutter, there's a sliver lining: co-owner and chef Eric Tucker has plans to open a new restaurant of his own, with general manager Alison Bagby alongside. "We want to keep this thing going," says Tucker, who still plans on serving organic plant-based cuisine in an upscale environment. The location is TBD, although a move to the East Bay is being weighed, given the high cost of doing business in San Francisco. Tucker and Bagby also plan to launch a Kickstarter campaign in the next few months as they continue to look for investors in the new project. In the meantime, fans still have three months to feast on black bean tortes, sweet potato gnocchi and their beloved chocolate almond Midnight Cake before the party's over. We'll keep you posted on Millennium's official closing date.