A popular vegan and vegetarian restaurant and cafe in downtown Lexington plans to close its doors in October — unless the right person comes along.

“[Blue Phoenix Cafe] will be open through October as we look for a buyer or partners to help keep the Phoenix flying,” a sign outside of the Washington Street location said.

Amenie Hopkins, the owner and chef of the restaurant and cafe, cited family loss and illness as her reason to step down from ownership.

“This year has been rotten for us,” she said. “I’ve been running this place myself and I need to focus on getting my husband well and on my son.”

The restaurant was popular among college students in the area, particularly those seeking healthier options off-campus.

“I’m going to be sad to see them go,” Annie Lentz, ‘20, said. “ It was a great place to have around, especially with dining options on campus not being vegan or health friendly.”

Over two weeks, Hopkins said she has received three serious inquiries into purchasing the cafe and two semi-serious offers. She plans on meeting other people next week to discuss other inquiries.

Blue Phoenix Cafe opened its doors in 2016, but started out as a healthy food store before then. 

“I had one [Washington and Lee] parent call and cry on the phone,” Hopkins said. “Right now, Blue Phoenix is a teenager. I’m at the point where I’m attached to it, but ready to hand it off and watch it grow.”