Philadelphia Restaurant Group Closes Six Locations, Citing Economic Factors, Not Boycott

CookNSolo, the Philadelphia restaurant group co‑founded by Israeli‑American celebrity chef Michael Solomonov, announced this week that it would close six locations across two of its fast‑casual chains.

In an interview with *The Philadelphia Inquirer*, owner Steve Cook attributed the closures to a combination of inflationary pressures, declining lunch‑time traffic, and an oversaturated fast‑casual market.

Pro‑Palestinian activists have argued that a boycott targeting the group since the start of the Gaza war contributed to the losses. “People are choosing not to support Zionist establishments,” one commentator posted on the Inquirer’s Instagram feed, reflecting a broader perception among boycott supporters. However, Cook dismissed these claims, stating, “Any time there’s been a protest, it’s always resulted in a short‑term increase in business. This is really an economic decision that goes back many years at this point.”

The backlash intensified after CookNSolo pledged $100,000 to United Hatzalah, an Israeli emergency‑medical organization, shortly after October 7. In December 2024, dozens of pro‑Palestinian protesters gathered outside Goldie, Solomonov’s kosher falafel chain, chanting slogans and drawing criticism from Jewish community leaders. Despite the sustained pressure, Cook insisted that the closures are driven by market conditions rather than activism.

Constant protests against Solomonov's restaurants since October 7th.

In recent months, the Brooklyn‑based chef’s other ventures have also faced pressure. Tsion Cafe, New York City’s sole Ethiopian‑Israeli restaurant, ceased regular dining operations in February, citing anti‑Israel backlash. Tatte Café and Bakery, an Israeli‑inspired fast‑casual chain, encountered online opposition after announcing new locations in the city. Meanwhile, employees at the New York‑based Breads Bakery attempted to unionize earlier this year, demanding an end to the company’s alleged support for actions in Gaza.

NYC restaurants close because of boycotts

Activists maintain that economic boycotts are effective tools for political expression. The Instagram account “Boycott CookNSolo” posted that declining sales are a direct result of the campaign, urging consumers to avoid “Zionist food.” Reports of similar boycotts affecting other Israeli‑linked eateries have added momentum to the movement.

Industry analysts note that while political boycotts can influence specific markets, the broader restaurant sector is grappling with post‑pandemic inflation, shifting consumer habits, and heightened competition. The Solomonov group’s decision to close locations is framed as part of a strategic reassessment aimed at strengthening its core brands.

Source link