Fans of Vancouver's Cannibal Cafe only have a couple of days to get down to the popular burger restaurant.
The longtime Commercial Drive restaurant announced it will be shutting down permanently on Dec. 17, 2023 in a statement issued to media by email.
A rep for the restaurant at 1818 Commercial Dr, known for its rock-n-roll vibes, diner-style milkshakes, and big burgers, indicates there are several reasons for the closure, including the health of owner Matt Thompson.
"In the end, a multitude of factors — including his battle with liver disease and subsequent transplant as well as rent increases and the pandemic — led Thompson to make the decision to sell what has been one of his favourite operations," reads the statement.
Thompson is also involved with other Vancouver restaurants Alphabet City, Smitty’s Oyster House on Main Street, the Five Point, and Anthem Pizza.
He's also involved in Park Drive, which is located near the Cannibal Cafe spot on Commercial Drive (the roadway used to be called Park Drive). Cannibal's burgers will still be served at that restaurant.
"I just want to express my gratitude to everyone throughout the years who helped make this place so special,” says Thompson. “You never know, maybe one day we’ll be able to find a new home for Cannibal, but for now, I’m looking forward to seeing some old friends and guests."
