London's vibrant plant-based dining scene has bid farewell to one of its most colourful fixtures, as the celebrated vegan Mexican restaurant Club Mexicana has closed its doors in Soho's Kingly Court. The bright pink establishment, known for its innovative meat-free Mexican cuisine, served its final dishes on February 7, 2026, after six successful years at the Carnaby Street location.
A Closure Driven by Redevelopment, Not Demand
In a heartfelt announcement on Instagram, owner Meriel Armitage clarified that the closure was not due to any lack of popularity or commercial success. 'We are not closing this site because it doesn't work – it very much does! We are always packed and it's been a fantastic, buzzy, always full restaurant,' the statement emphasised. Instead, the decision stems from the landlord's plans for significant redevelopment within Kingly Court.
'The landlord has decided to make some big changes to Kingly and a big redevelopment plan is about to begin there,' the post explained, acknowledging that 'places change and we all keep on moving.' This suggests the area is undergoing transformation that will alter the character of the popular dining destination.
From Festival Stall to London Institution
Club Mexicana's journey began humbly as a festival food stall and supper club before establishing its first permanent restaurant in Kingly Court in 2020. The brand became synonymous with creative vegan interpretations of Mexican classics, most famously its signature 'tofish' tacos, helping to pioneer London's plant-first culinary movement.
While the Soho chapter has ended, the Club Mexicana story continues across the capital. The mini-chain operates several other food hall-style venues that will remain open, including locations at:
- Market Place Leicester Square
- Boxhall City
- Mercato Mayfair
Furthermore, the closure announcement hinted at future expansion, revealing that new Club Mexicana venues are already in development, with more details promised soon.
The Evolving Landscape of London's Vegan Scene
This closure occurs amidst a dynamic period for London's plant-based dining sector. While one door closes, others are opening – literally. Coincidentally, one of London's top-rated plant-based restaurants has just announced plans to open a second location in the City, demonstrating continued confidence in the market.
The same week also saw Michelin recognise culinary excellence across the capital, with ten London restaurants receiving new Michelin Stars in the 2026 awards. This underscores London's position as a global dining destination where innovation, including in vegan cuisine, continues to thrive despite individual venue changes.
For now, London's vegans need not worry about diminished options. Club Mexicana's remaining venues continue to serve their popular meat-free Mexican fare, and the brand's commitment to expansion suggests this closure represents not an ending, but a transition in its ongoing London story.
