Atlanta entrepreneur Pinky Cole now faces a new challenge. The founder of the viral vegan burger chain Slutty Vegan has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in Georgia. The filing follows months of financial pressure and business restructuring. Court documents show Cole owes roughly $1.4 million in debt. Most of the balance stems from a $1.2 million loan owed to the US Small Business Administration. Meanwhile, she also owes about $192,000 in taxes to the Georgia Department of Revenue.
However, Chapter 11 does not mean the end. Instead, it allows businesses and individuals to reorganise finances whilst continuing operations. Cole must now present a formal restructuring plan to the bankruptcy court. A hearing will take place on March 12, and the plan deadline is June 12.
A viral brand faces growing pressure
Slutty Vegan launched in Atlanta in 2018 as a small food truck concept. Soon after, the brand exploded on social media. Long lines formed outside restaurants. Fans loved the playful menu names and indulgent vegan burgers.
Consequently, the company expanded rapidly. At its peak, Slutty Vegan operated fourteen locations across several cities. Investors valued the business at around $100 million during its growth phase.
Yet fast expansion created serious pressure. Rising operating costs, lawsuits and debt began to weigh on the company. As a result, several locations closed during the past year. Today, only six restaurants remain open.
A turbulent year for the founder
Cole has already endured a difficult period. In 2025, financial struggles forced her to temporarily lose ownership of Slutty Vegan during restructuring. Later, she regained control and promised a fresh start for the brand.
Meanwhile, her public profile continues to grow. Cole will appear on the upcoming season of ‘The Real Housewives of Atlanta’, introducing her story to a wider audience.
For now, the entrepreneur focuses on rebuilding. Bankruptcy proceedings will determine how she restructures debt and stabilises the business.
Nevertheless, Cole remains determined to revive the brand that once transformed vegan comfort food into a cultural phenomenon.
