True Food Kitchen files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy

True Food Kitchen, a health-focused restaurant chain backed by Oprah Winfrey, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. The Phoenix-founded company filed in a Texas court and is currently seeking a court-supervised sale.

As part of the restructuring, the chain has closed 12 restaurants, leaving 34 locations operating across 14 US states. While some locations remain profitable, the company cited several factors for its financial distress, including the post-pandemic economy, weak foot traffic, and changing demographics.

Court filings also highlighted internal operational challenges, specifically significant management turnover. This leadership churn led to frequent changes in brand direction, expansion strategies, and menu offerings. Additionally, the company noted that previous investments in product lines and concepts outside its core mission proved unsuccessful.

CEO Jeff Chandler stated that the bankruptcy is the “best path forward to simplify the business and focus on what we do best: delivering craveable, health-forward food and genuine hospitality.”