The culinary landscape of Oakland suffers another loss as Pomella, a popular Middle Eastern restaurant, is slated to close on May 26. Pomella has been a local favorite since its inception in 2020, offering California-inspired Israeli cuisine. Owner Mica Talmor attributes the impending closure to a one-two punch of soaring costs and a decline in patronage, a plight that has seen the doors of several Bay Area restaurants shutter in recent months, as per the San Francisco Chronicle.
Having enjoyed commendations from critics such as the Bay Area's own Cesar Hernandez and Soleil Ho, Pomella boasted an array of vibrant dishes such as cheese-stuffed falafel and hummus plates. But despite the restaurant's critical acclaim and a loyal following, the financial challenges were insurmountable, with Talmor announcing in a heartfelt social media post, per Pomella, "Unfortunately, Pomella has not been able to sustain itself financially for a while now."
According to the owner, inflation and the heightened costs associated with dining have contributed to fewer customers and smaller orders. Pomella, which carved out a niche for casual, "every day" dining with counter service, has seen the impact of cautious consumer spending behaviors. Despite once thriving on large takeout orders during the pandemic's peak, the current economic climate has dampened the once-bustling activity in Pomella's colorful dining room.
Talmor desired to see Pomella's legacy continue, harboring hopes for a resurrection under a more resourceful restaurant group's stewardship capable of weathering economic uncertainties. She told the San Francisco Chronicle, "I just don’t have the money for that. I cannot survive the next five years by myself." Pomella plans to sell various items, including spices, pantry essentials, and frozen goods, in preparation for the closure on the final weekend of operation.
