Beloved vegan restaurant La Jacka in Downtown Fresno announces closure

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- La Jacka, a popular vegan Mexican eatery in downtown Fresno, is closing its doors after rising costs and economic pressures made it difficult to stay in business.

The family-owned restaurant, located on Van Ness Boulevard, announced the decision in an Instagram post. What began as a food truck eventually grew into a brick-and-mortar location, making the closure especially difficult for owner Miriam Martinez.

"Over the last few days, many of our customers have come by saying if we could at least be here for a little. But rent is really expensive; some places aren't the best," Martinez said.

Martinez cited rising costs and broader economic challenges as key factors in the decision, noting that operating a sustainable business has become more difficult.

"It's been difficult, but besides the fact that I love my customers, this has to be a profitable business for us to keep going," she said.

The closure comes as inflation continues to rise nationwide. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports prices have increased 4.2% compared to a year ago, with some of the largest price hikes affecting fresh fruits and vegetables, ingredients central to La Jacka's plant-based menu. The restaurant is known for using jackfruit as a meat alternative.

"This passion, this journey I did with jackfruit, I owe it to my hometown," Martinez said.

Customers have been stopping by in recent days to support the business before it closes. Among them is Sadiyah Saeed, who said the restaurant filled an important role in the community.

"I feel like we need more places like this. It makes me really sad that we're losing a place that is that stepping stone to open for many other places," Saeed said.

Despite the closure, Martinez said she is exploring new ways to continue serving customers, including offering prepackaged meals.

"My idea, if possible, is to make prepackaged meals so clients can just pick up 1-2 times a week," she said.

While La Jacka's physical restaurant is set to close, Martinez said the business's mission and connection to the community may continue in a new form.

For news updates, follow Ana Torrea on Facebook, X and Instagram.