AceShowbiz - Pinky Cole, the founder of the popular Slutty Vegan restaurant chain, has officially filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, citing debts totaling nearly $1.4 million.

According to court documents, Pinky Cole owes approximately $1.2 million to the U.S. Small Business Administration alongside an additional $192,000 to the Georgia Department of Revenue. These figures highlight the financial challenges the business is currently facing.

The brand, which began in 2018 as a single food truck offering plant-based comfort food with bold and memorable branding, quickly expanded into a cultural sensation. At its peak, Slutty Vegan had grown to operate as many as 14 locations, spreading throughout Atlanta and beyond.

However, the rapid expansion came with increased operational costs, and in recent years, multiple Slutty Vegan locations have closed, signaling financial strain. The Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing allows the business to reorganize its debts and continue operations rather than liquidating entirely.

The legal troubles for Pinky Cole and her business extend beyond debt. In August, a landlord for two Slutty Vegan locations on Edgewood Avenue filed a lawsuit claiming over $87,000 in unpaid rent, late fees, and interest, escalating the financial pressure on the company.

As part of the bankruptcy process, court documents reveal that a teleconference to discuss the case is scheduled for March 12, with a formal reorganization plan due by June 12. This timeline will be critical for the future of Slutty Vegan as the brand seeks to stabilize its finances.

Amidst these financial challenges, Pinky Cole recently announced her upcoming role on the new season of The Real Housewives of Atlanta. She will join returning stars such as Porsha Williams, Phaedra Parks, Drew Sidora, Shamea Morton Mwangi, Angela Oakley, and Kelli Ferrell. Recording artist K. Michelle is also set to debut this season.

This new reality TV platform could potentially increase visibility for Pinky Cole and her brand during this critical period of restructuring. The timing of her television debut coincides with the ongoing efforts to manage Slutty Vegan’s financial recovery.

While Chapter 11 bankruptcy does not mean the end of Slutty Vegan, it represents a significant turning point for a business once hailed as one of Atlanta’s fastest-growing restaurant success stories. Many companies successfully use this process to renegotiate debts and continue operating.

As the court proceedings unfold and cameras start rolling for the reality show, Pinky Cole’s next chapter will be closely watched, both in the courtroom and on television screens across the country.