Kb&co closes original Edmonton downtown location after 10 years
The beloved plant-based restaurant shutters its 104th Street home, citing construction, foot traffic decline, and pandemic recovery struggles.
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Kb&co has closed the doors to its original downtown location after 10 years in business.
Owner Kristina Botelho announced the closure on Sunday, writing that the 104th Street shop was "where Kb&co was born." The casual plant-based chain, known for smoothies, bowls, sandwiches, and organic ingredients, faced mounting pressure from downtown conditions that have worsened over the past six years.
Botelho cited construction, reduced foot traffic, changing work patterns since COVID, and safety concerns as obstacles that made operating in the area increasingly difficult. She also pointed to the broader financial strain on small businesses: while loans, grants, and government support helped venues survive the immediate pandemic crisis, the recovery has taken far longer than expected.
"For the last six years, downtown has faced challenge after challenge," Botelho wrote, describing the decision as difficult but necessary.
The closure does not mark the end of Kb&co. The restaurant still operates locations in Windermere, St. Albert, and Sherwood Park. Botelho thanked staff, regulars, and customers who supported the downtown store, saying it had been home to friendships and community built across the counter.
