From vision to vegan, check out this plant-based Mediterranean restaurant!
In a time when many all-vegan restaurants are closing down or adding animal products to their menus, it’s inspiring to see other establishments take off in the opposite direction. And that’s exactly what this Ontario-based restaurant did. Check out how The Lemon Tree veganized its entire Mediterranean-style menu and built a loyal following!
Courtesy of The Lemon Tree
From Mediterranean Roots to Plant-Based Revolution
Owned and operated by Isabella Bujor and Billy Qorri, The Lemon Tree opened its doors in April 2015. Originally from Romania and Albania, the two met in Canada and dreamed of opening a Mediterranean-style restaurant inspired by their European travels. Despite Isabella’s long-time vegetarianism, the restaurant originally opened without any vegan options.
After a year in business, the two watched popular documentaries like Blackfish, Forks Over Knives, Cowspiracy, and Earthlings. Feeling deeply moved, they decided to go vegan, scaling their plant-based eating patterns to their restaurant’s menu. By the spring of 2018, the restaurant had gone fully vegan. To appeal to new and old customers, the change was promoted simply as a new plant-based menu rather than a full vegan overhaul.
Courtesy of The Lemon Tree
A Vegan Triumph: The Lemon Tree Became a Destination for Plant-Based Food Lovers
Although Isabella and Billy worried about negative customer feedback, the team was faced with quite the opposite. In fact, The Lemon Tree saw its busiest month ever! The vegan community quickly spread the word, and people traveled from near and far to support them. But seriously, who wouldn’t travel for dishes like Vegan Calamari, Garlic Shrimp Pasta, and Limoncello Cheesecake? We’re packing our bags as we speak!
The duo is still heavily involved in the restaurant and enjoys creating new menu items regularly. They are often asked about opening other locations in Toronto, Ottawa, or Montreal, and although there are no plans for a second establishment at this time, they say “anything is possible,” and The Lemon Tree’s story is certainly a testament to that!
Courtesy of The Lemon Tree
To watch The Lemon Tree continue to grow, check out TheLemonTreeBistro.com and follow the restaurant on Instagram.
