Avondale's Kitchen 17, Known For Vegan Deep-Dish That Shipped Nationwide, Closing

Kitchen 17, known for its vegan deep-dish pizza, will close after 13 years in Avondale, with its final day of operation scheduled for 2 a. m. Sunday. Owner Jennie Plasterer announced the decision on social media, citing multiple factors, including increased city licensing fees, rising food costs, and a troubling atmosphere of hostility towards her staff. A recent incident where an employee was assaulted by a customer contributed to her decision to exit the restaurant industry.

Following the announcement, the restaurant experienced a significant increase in pizza orders, indicating strong national demand for its products. Plasterer expressed hope that the pizzas could return in some form in the future. The farewell celebration on November 25 will commemorate Kitchen 17's impact on the community, particularly its punk and hardcore music venue, Fallen Log, which will also close. The restaurant originally launched in 2013 as a vegan sandwich shop and expanded its menu over the years, gaining a loyal following. Plasterer encouraged patrons to explore other local vegan options as she prepares for her next chapter.