Roots, a beloved vegetarian café in North Devon, will close after five years due to economic challenges.
Lila Schiffer owns the restaurant. She said the decision was very difficult. Roots opened in Barnstaple in July 2020. A second location opened in Braunton in May 2021.
Lila hasn’t set a closing date yet, but it may be a few months away. She put her heart into Roots and loved serving meat-free meals.
The café became known for its unique food, with dishes having Middle Eastern and Mexican flavors. It first was a small takeaway spot that adapted during Covid with evening delivery. The business then moved to Boutport Street, and they also opened the Braunton branch.
The Braunton location struggled in winter and closed in early 2023. The Barnstaple venue stayed open, but work changes hurt lunchtime business, and economic issues also affected them.
Lila said the location hurt the business, as more people work from home now, and the economy also impacts lunchtime sales. She loved evening pop-up events, as the venue was cute with low lights, and people enjoyed the food and atmosphere.
Lila will still promote plant-based food and will cook at retreats. She’ll also improve meat-free options for kids. She thanked her loyal customers and supportive staff. Roots is still open for now, and Lila hopes people will visit soon.