After less than a year of serving up its signature plant-based “fauxltry” in Louisville, Cosmic Bird, at 619 Baxter Ave., is closing its doors for good after announcing it was back in late 2024.
The beloved vegan fried chicken eatery, known for its vegan take on poultry alternatives, will shutter its permanent location in the Highlands on Friday, Jan. 31.
Though its brick-and-mortar chapter is coming to an end, Cosmic Bird isn’t disappearing entirely. Fans of the shop’s plant-based culinary creations can look forward to the spot in a pop-up capacity at venues around Louisville.
Cosmic Bird was founded by James Morier, a Los Angeles native and seasoned chef with a passion for vegan cuisine. Since launching, the restaurant has cultivated a loyal following, thanks in part to successful pop-ups at local spots like ShopBar and The Merryweather.
Morier’s unique recipe for the eatery’s vegan “chicken” features a creative mix of vital wheat gluten, beans, legumes, seasonings, and other plant-based ingredients, offering a flavorful alternative to traditional poultry.
In an Instagram post, James Morier, the store’s owner said he “wanted to thank everyone who has been a part of this.”
“I’m grateful. I’m thankful. I wish this was a better outcome, but I can’t go any further,” he said in an Instagram video. “I love you guys. Thanks for everyone who came into the Bird, sat down, talked with me, had a great time, all the travelers from up north and down south and passing through. Thanks for stopping in.”
This article appears in Dec 18, 2024 – Jan 16, 2025.
