Little DON’YA, a Ukrainian kitchen located in downtown Edmonton, is permanently closing its downtown location after operating for just under two years. The final day of business for the storefront at 10405 Jasper Avenue is scheduled for Friday, September 11.
In a statement released on Instagram, the restaurant’s team cited difficulties with the changing downtown environment as the primary reason for the closure. Specifically, they noted that they could no longer sustain operations while competing with ongoing construction, crime, and parking challenges in the central core.
Despite the difficulties, the team expressed gratitude for the experience, mentioning the joy, memories, and connections made with neighbors, fellow business owners, and diverse downtown customers. They noted that the insights gained from serving the community will help the brand grow in the future.
To mark the final days of operation, the kitchen planned a farewell celebration featuring a performance by Ukrainian singer Maria Kuzmenko on the Thursday before the closure.
Although the downtown storefront is closing, customers will still be able to purchase DON’YA products and dishes at various local retailers and markets, including the Italian Centre Shop, Sunterra, North Central Co-op, Public Exchange, and Meals on Wheels.
