True Food Kitchen files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and closes 12 units

True Food Kitchen has filed for voluntary Chapter 11 bankruptcy and closed 12 of its locations, fastcasual.com and Nation's Restaurant News both reported. The Scottsdale, Arizona-based restaurant chain announced that its remaining 34 locations will continue normal operations through the restructuring process, according to Nation's Restaurant News. [1][2][5]

The closed locations represent nearly one-quarter of the restaurant chain's total units, Nation's Restaurant News reported. Company leadership stated that the restructuring process is intended to simplify business operations and allow the brand to focus on its health-forward menu concepts. [2]

Business Insider reported that the bankruptcy filing followed recent management turnover and shifts in company strategy. Additional coverage by thestreet.com noted that the chain has previously received financial backing from Oprah Winfrey. [6][7]

True Food Kitchen was founded in 2008 in Phoenix, Arizona, by author Dr. Andrew Weil and Fox Restaurant Concepts Chief Executive Officer Sam Fox. The brand focuses on an anti-inflammatory diet and health-conscious menu offerings. [8]