Controversial Menu Change at New Jersey Vegan Restaurant

A New Jersey restaurant owner is facing backlash after deciding to include chicken and fish on the menu of her vegan eatery, aiming to bring in more customers.

Ashley Coyne, who runs Good Beat in Haddon Township, recently shared a “plot twist” via social media that upset many in the plant-based community. As reported by NJ Advance Media, Coyne announced the addition of local, organic, pasture-raised chicken and Jail Island wild-caught salmon as options for existing bowls, along with new protein and side platters.

Coyne pointed out that other eateries have been integrating vegan options into their menus, a trend that gained momentum during the pandemic. She described this shift as a significant development, suggesting that vegan restaurants might not be the only go-to places for plant-based food anymore.

“That’s the place we want to be,” she mentioned in her post.

While Coyne anticipated some criticism regarding the incorporation of animal products, she admitted to being taken aback by the harshness of the responses. “We knew there would be a backlash regarding animal products,” she remarked, “But I thought they would be happier that we were fighting to survive rather than giving up.”

Comments on Instagram reflected the outrage, with one user sarcastically suggesting the addition of “feel-good options” alongside disturbing imagery related to meat. Others expressed strong disapproval, with some wishing for the restaurant to close permanently.

Despite the negative feedback, there were supporters of Coyne’s decision. A regular customer expressed continued loyalty, stating he still visits Good Beat even after relocating nearby. Another patron dismissed the criticism as “absolutely ridiculous,” affirming their commitment to the restaurant.

Coyne explained that her restaurant, like many others, faces mounting pressure from rising food and labor expenses. She noted that adding meat options was a strategic move in a competitive health food market. “We’re now competing with Chopt across the street,” she said, referencing other restaurants such as Wonder and Cava, which also offer vegan choices. “We also have options for people who want to eat meat,” she added.

Rising utility costs and a significant rent increase have further complicated the situation. According to statistics, food and labor costs have surged by approximately 35% since 2019, with utility costs climbing 18% and occupancy costs rising by 14%. As of August, the consumer price index for food had increased by 3.2% compared to the previous year, with restaurant menu prices also rising more than grocery prices.

Efforts to reach Coyne for additional comments were made, but responses remain pending.