This buzzy new downtown restaurant is closing after only 9 months: 'It just didn't work'

Corrections & clarifications: An earlier version of this article gave an incorrect time frame of how long Sin Muerte has been operating. It closes after 9 months; it opened in November 2022 and closes Aug. 25, 2023.

Michael Babcock's downtown Phoenix vegetarian restaurant Sin Muerte is closing on Friday, Aug. 25, only nine months after opening.

The brainchild of Michael Babcock and Instrumental Hospitality Group, who are also behind Belly, Sin Muerte opened inside one of Phoenix's first funeral homes in November 2022. The name was a nod to the history of the space and referred to their menu of dishes made without killing animals. The other theme of the menu was dishes inspired by countries and cultures along the 33rd parallel.

Babcock left the restaurant industry on July 11 to spend more time with his family. Sin Muerte, his latest concept, is now following suit. In an Instagram post dated Aug. 19, the restaurant thanked its supporters and announced plans to close.

"When we created this concept, our team was passionate about delivering an experience that wasn't just plant-based, but that stood on its own as a different approach to the food scene here in Phoenix. At the end of the day though, it just didn't work. The good news is that we are in development on a new concept for this historic, funky space that'll be totally different. Who knows, perhaps Sin will pop back up somewhere in due time as well."

The post encouraged people to visit the restaurant during its final week of service, to follow on Instagram for updates and to "support some of the other amazing plant-based spots in the downtown area."

Fans responded to the Sin Muerte closure news

Fans expressed sadness on multiple levels. Some were upset to see another plant-based restaurant close, others would miss the specialty cocktails.

"Hate to see the plant-based options dwindling," commented fellow vegetarian restaurant @coronadophx. "Sorry guys"

"Wow, heartbreaking," wrote @yetihood. "This place has such romantic sentimental value to me. How can we help?"

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This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Downtown Phoenix restaurant Sin Muerte closing after less than a year