Slutty Vegan, the Atlanta-born plant-based burger chain famous for its cheeky menu names, high-energy vibe, and unapologetically vegan “junk food” appeal, is entering a bold new chapter of growth.

The eatery, which has become one of the top vegan spots in Atlanta, is expanding with key locations across the United States.

Founded in 2018 by Pinky Cole Hayes as a food truck serving late-night cravings, the brand has evolved from a local sensation into a nationally recognized name. After navigating financial challenges and a recent restructuring, Slutty Vegan is now franchising aggressively, with fresh deals signaling expansion across the United States.

Slutty Vegan Expansion: Humble Beginnings in Atlanta

Slutty Vegan opens on Georgia Tech campus in Atlanta
Photo credit: Pinky Cole / Facebook

Pinky Cole launched Slutty Vegan in August 2018, initially as a ghost kitchen and then a food truck, driven by her own desire for satisfying vegan comfort food available after dark. The first brick-and-mortar location opened in Atlanta’s Westview neighborhood in January 2019. Signature items like the “One Night Stand” burger, “Fussy Hussy,” and “Chick’N Head” sandwich—made with inventive plant-based ingredients—quickly drew massive lines, even during the COVID-19 pandemic.

By 2020, additional Atlanta-area spots opened in Jonesboro and on Edgewood Avenue in the Old Fourth Ward. The brand’s playful, sex-positive branding and community focus helped it stand out, turning vegan eating into an inclusive, fun experience that attracted both plant-based enthusiasts and curious carnivores. Cole’s vision extended beyond food: she emphasized Black entrepreneurship, community investment, and redefining veganism as accessible and crave-worthy.

Rapid Growth—and Growing Pains

Pinky Cole opens Bar Vegan in Lawrenceville
Photo credit: Bar Vegan

Slutty Vegan expanded quickly. By 2023, it boasted around 11 locations across Georgia (including Atlanta metro spots, Athens, and Columbus), New York City (Brooklyn and Harlem), Birmingham, Alabama, and Dallas, with plans for monthly openings. Other ventures included a Baltimore location and a pop-up presence that reached places like Tampa’s Brandon area.

However, aggressive growth brought challenges. The chain faced lawsuits over rent and wages, and in 2024–2025, Cole temporarily lost ownership amid financial restructuring tied to high corporate debt. She bought the company back, reclaimed full control (now owning 100%), and shifted to a franchising model. Some locations closed during this period, trimming the footprint but setting the stage for a more sustainable national push. As of mid-2026, core locations include Edgewood and Jonesboro in the Atlanta area, plus outposts in Birmingham, Brooklyn, Baltimore, and Brandon, Florida.

Franchising Era: New Cities on the Horizon

In June 2026, Slutty Vegan announced its first official franchise agreements, marking a pivotal step in national expansion. In Atlanta, franchisees Khadejah Davis and Jamel Douglas—experienced operators behind Juici Patties—will open a new location, the first formal franchise in the brand’s hometown. This deepens roots where it all began.

11alive.comSimultaneously, franchise veteran Brandi Forte will lead development in Washington, D.C., bringing Slutty Vegan to the nation’s capital for the first time. Cole emphasized selecting partners who align with the brand’s cultural identity and business acumen: “Atlanta is where Slutty Vegan was born, and we’re planting deeper roots here while establishing our presence in D.C. This is bigger than the burgers. We’re creating opportunity and legacy.”

The company is on a multi-city tour to scout further opportunities, with franchising inquiries open nationwide. Current momentum suggests more announcements soon, potentially targeting underserved markets eager for bold vegan options.

How Many Slutty Vegan Locations Are There?

As of June 2026, the following Slutty Vegan locations are open according to the company’s official website.

  • Jonesboro, GA
    164 N McDonough St, Jonesboro, GA 30236
    Hours: Mon-Tue closed; Wed-Thu 12PM-9PM; Fri-Sat 12PM-11PM; Sun 12PM-9PM.
  • Edgewood (Atlanta), GA
    476 Edgewood Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30312
    Hours: Mon 12PM-6PM; Tue-Thu 12PM-12AM; Fri-Sat 12PM-1AM; Sun 12PM-12AM.
  • Birmingham, AL
    7 55th Pl S, Birmingham, AL 35212
    Hours: Mon & Sun closed; Tue-Thu 12PM-8PM; Fri-Sat 12PM-9PM. sluttyveganatl.com
  • Brooklyn, NY
    690 Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY 11217
    Hours: Mon 12PM-8PM; Tue-Thu 12PM-10PM; Fri-Sat 12PM-12AM; Sun 12PM-10PM.
  • Baltimore, MD
    2120 Distillery St, Baltimore, MD 21230 (includes Slutty Vegan + Bar Vegan)
    Hours: Mon-Sun 12PM-8PM.
  • Brandon, FL
    2080 Badlands Dr, Brandon, FL 33511
    Hours: Mon-Tue & Wed closed (or limited); Thu 12-8PM; Fri-Sat 12PM-10PM; Sun 12PM-8PM.

Upcoming / Opening Soon (as of early June 2026):

  • Washington, D.C. — A franchise has been signed for 521 H Street Northeast (and broader D.C. development). It is listed as “COMING SOON.”

Why It Matters

Slutty Vegan’s story reflects broader trends: the rise of plant-based eating, the power of social media-driven brands, and the resilience of Black women entrepreneurs. Cole, a Clark Atlanta University alum named to TIME’s 100 Next list, has used her platform for philanthropy via the Pinky Cole Foundation and authored books like Eat Plants, Btch*. Her journey—from TV producer to restaurant mogul—embodies hustle amid setbacks.

en.wikipedia.orgAs it expands from Atlanta outward, Slutty Vegan isn’t just opening restaurants—it’s building a movement. Fans can expect the same irreverent energy, late-night hours at select spots, and mouthwatering vegan twists on classics. For those craving a “Sloppy Toppy” or similar, more cities may soon get sluttified.

Whether you’re a longtime Atlanta supporter or discovering the brand in a new market, one thing’s clear: Slutty Vegan’s expansion is heating up, and the plant-based party is just getting started. Keep an eye on franchise announcements—your city could be next. For the latest locations and updates, visit sluttyveganatl.com.

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