Michael Solomonov's restaurant group closes 6 locations amid boycott claims

CookNSolo, the Philadelphia restaurant group co-founded by celebrity chef Michael Solomonov, is closing six locations across its fast-casual chains, Goldie Falafel and Federal Donuts & Chicken. Owner Steve Cook attributed the decision to economic pressures including inflation, a drop in lunch business, and a crowded fast-casual dining market.

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Constantly disappointed in the inquirers sneaky portrayal of key topics. Everybody knows that they’re closing the stores because the boycott is working and yet nobody’s going to mention in this article the boycott??? we’re gonna pretend it’s a shifting landscape in the restaurant business?????

However, pro-Palestinian activists have asserted that the closures are a direct result of a sustained boycott against CookNSolo. This campaign began after the group announced a $100,000 donation to the Israeli emergency medical organization United Hatzalah following the October 7th attacks. Activists have targeted Solomonov's restaurants, chanting slogans and accusing them of supporting "Zionist establishments."

Cook dismissed the boycott claims, stating that protests have historically led to short-term increases in business. He insisted the closures are an "economic decision that goes back many years." This stance contrasts sharply with online commentary from activists who believe the boycott is effectively working and criticize media portrayals that omit its impact.

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It’s not a lack of demand for fast-casual restaurants, it’s a lack of desire to support zionist establishments.

The situation echoes similar boycotts faced by other businesses with perceived ties to Israel. Tsion Cafe, New York City's only Ethiopian-Israeli restaurant, closed its doors for regular dining earlier this year, citing anti-Israel backlash. Tatte Café and Bakery also faced online criticism after announcing new locations.

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Any time there’s been a protest, it’s always resulted in a short-term increase in business. This is really an economic decision that goes back many years at this point.