Vegan store Smith and Deli forced to kick out canine customers

PUP owners have refused to roll over and play dead after their pets were kicked out of a vegan deli in Fitzroy when a dogged neighbour complained and got the shop served with a council slapdown.

Smith and Deli manager Tracey Savio with deli regulars and their dogs. Picture: David Caird

PUP owners have refused to roll over and play dead after their pets were kicked out of a vegan deli in Fitzroy when a dogged neighbour complained and got the shop served with a council slapdown.

Vegan mecca Smith and Deli has welcomed dogs, and other animals, into the store since they opened three years ago, without issue.

VEGANS STORM STEAK RESTAURANT

A VEGAN BBQ TO MAKE MEAT LOVERS DROOL

NOVAK’S VEGAN VIBES IN MELBOURNE

But the business and its impassioned customers aren’t ready to sit and stay just yet.

Co-owner of the plant-based delicatessen Mo Wyse said she was overwhelmed by the support offered by her customers by writing to council.

“Don’t stand between vegans and their dogs,” she said.

“Sometimes you can’t tie up outside and this was a safe place for people to bring their dogs.”

Ms Wyse and her co-owners claim this particular neighbour has it in for them and this is their most recent attempt to shut the shop down.

Esma the french bulldog outside Smith and Deli. Picture: David Caird

Esma with Biggie the English Bulldog. Picture: David Caird

Bella Yann, 21, is a regular who loved bringing her rescue dog Albert into the store before the ban.

“It’s crazy seeing how the front of house and wait staff know all the dogs and it creates a really positive community,” she said.

“I was really upset and shocked and I felt really sad for the business.”

A Yarra Council spokeswoman said: “Under the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code, live animals are not allowed inside a food premises.”

“Dogs may be allowed in the outdoor dining areas of food premises, provided the area can be accessed without going through other parts.”

[e-mail]

@tamsinroses