Add Helio Terra Vegan Cafe (619 Prospect Ave., 216-664-0929) to the list of restaurants that will not ring in the New Year. Owner Austin Ruesch has announced that he is winding down the business, which opened downtown three years ago. The cafe will close on Friday, November 9th.

Here’s the owner’s statement in full:

“Please accept our endless gratitude for every moment shared over compassionate, nutritious meals. We have learned so much from our experiences with all of you.

Especially, we wish to thank our fun, loyal and passionate employees, who have each left indelible marks on the souls of so many.

As we close down operations, we remind ourselves of each special conversation, spark of illumination and smile of comfort, for that was the point. Our love for the mission far outweighed the difficulties of the past 4 years.

Austin will be working solo at the cafe Monday through Friday from 12-3 serving a limited menu, making money for closing costs and saying goodbye to our loyal lunch regulars.

As always, Eat Well. Be Well.”

This article appears in Oct 31 – Nov 6, 2018.

For 25 years, Douglas Trattner has worked as a full-time freelance writer, editor and author. His work as co-author on Michael Symon's cookbooks have earned him four New York Times Best-Selling Author honors, while his longstanding role as Scene dining editor has garnered awards of its own.