Planta's Canadian exit leaves vegan dining scene in transition
Planta, the once-popular plant-based restaurant chain, has officially exited Canada with the closure of its last two Toronto locations. The Yorkville and Queen West branches shut their doors on Tuesday, following an announcement on Instagram. The move comes after years of growth and a recent shift in ownership under financial strain. Planta first gained attention in 2016 when its co-founders chose the term 'plant-based' over 'vegan' to appeal to a broader audience. One of its early standout dishes was a $17.50 plate featuring two hot dogs made entirely from carrots. By 2019, the brand expanded in Toronto with Planta Queen, offering an Asian-inspired menu.
Financial troubles began to surface after the pandemic, leading the company to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in U.S. courts in May 2025. Rising operating costs and prolonged closures during the pandemic contributed to the downturn. In September 2025, investment firm Anchorage Capital Group acquired the chain. Despite the Canadian exit, Planta’s five U.S. locations remain open for now. The company has not announced further closures or changes to its American operations.
The closure of Planta’s Yorkville and Queen West restaurants marks the end of its Canadian presence. The brand’s future now rests with its remaining U.S. locations under new ownership. The decision follows years of challenges, including financial restructuring and shifting market conditions.
