Carmelita Vegetarian Restaurant, at 7314 Greenwood Ave. N. for almost 17 years, is closing its doors at the end of September. In its place will be a new (not vegetarian) restaurant.
Michael Hughes and Kathryn Neumann have sold the business to three local restaurant owners, including Chris Navarra, who currently owns Prost! right across the street, The Ridge Pizza just a block south, and the soon-to-open Martino’s Smoked Meats & Eatery, a block north. Navarra’s business partners in the new restaurant will be Chris Gerke (also co-owner of  The Ridge Pizza and Martinos, plus Nickerson Street Saloon in Fremont), and Shannon Wilkinson (Little Water Cantina on Eastlake).
Hughes and Neumann say the recession played a part in the decision, but mostly they wanted to spend more time with their young son.
They’re planning lots of special celebrations this summer. Keep an eye on their Facebook page for more information.
Carmelita will close on Sept. 29.
