The ‘Burg is about to lose one of its many plant-based concepts.
Freya’s Diner, located at 2462 Central Ave. in the Grant Central District, took to Instagram today to announce the imminent closure of the vegan lunch and dinner spot.
Sunday, Aug. 6 is the restaurant’s last day in operation.
“We want to take this time to thank everyone for their support this last year and for weathering so many changes that came our way. Unfortunately, St. Pete is seeing its slowest season to date and has left us with no other option but to close our doors,” its Instagram reads. “We’ve spoken to so many others that are feeling the effects of today’s economy. We aren’t the first to close this season, and we definitely won’t be the last.”
This eerie farewell message ends with Freya’s Diner encouraging its patrons and community members to support other small businesses throughout St. Pete, stating that “June and July have been the slowest months in retail/dining on Central since we can remember.”
Freya's Diner took over the former Lucy's Vegan Corner space in the summer of 2021.
Although Freya’s closure comes at the plant-based community’s dismay, the unfortunate news isn’t a surprise to some, considering the diner’s Central Avenue space has been for sale on loopnet.com for quite some time now.
The listing features several parcels from 2458-2462 Central Ave. for $1,599,000, including two studio apartments on top of the commercial spaces and Freya’s sibling concept Valhalla Bakery—although that business has not announced any closures or operational changes related to the real estate listing.
An employee from Valhalla Bakery confirmed with Creative Loafing Tampa Bay that the pastry shop will remain open with its regular hours of 10 a.m.-7p.m. Wednesday-Sunday.
Celine Beltgens, owner of popular plant-based hotspot Valhalla Bakery, opened Freya’s Diner a few years ago. The restaurant quickly became a go-to spot for veganized versions of diner classics, from burgers and sandwiches to wraps, salads and bowls.
Beltgens debuted Valhalla Bakery in 2018, and opened another plant-based dessert shop Valkyrie Doughnuts—which is only a few storefronts away from Freya's Diner and Valhalla Bakery—in late 2021. For the latest information on Freya’s Diner and its imminent closure, head to its Instagram at @freyasdinerstp. Until next weekend’s closure, the vegan restaurant will remain open from 10 a.m.-7p.m. Wednesday-Thursday.
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St. Pete vegan eatery Freya’s Diner will close next week
Its Central Avenue space, alongside its sister concept Valhalla Bakery, is currently up for sale.
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