Slutty Vegan Signed Franchise Agreement for Cincinnati

The plant-based burger chain has officially expanded its footprint with a new deal for a Cincinnati restaurant location.

Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Dining Out

Bold vector editorial illustration showing an artisan burger bun and a vegetable patty, representing the restaurant's expansion to Cincinnati.
Slutty Vegan has officially signed a franchise agreement with Soul Republic Hospitality Group to open a new location in Cincinnati. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Slutty Vegan has signed a franchise agreement to bring its plant-based menu to Cincinnati. The expansion is being managed by the Soul Republic Hospitality Group.

Why it matters

The move marks an effort to meet growing consumer demand for the brand across Ohio. By securing this location, the company continues its strategy of scaling its popular Atlanta-born concept into new urban markets.

The agreement establishes a presence in 3 major Ohio markets, including Cincinnati, Columbus, and Cleveland. These locations represent the expansion of the brand founded in 2018.

The players

Aisha Pinky Cole Hayes

She is the founder of the plant-based restaurant chain Slutty Vegan.

Soul Republic Hospitality Group

This organization holds the franchise rights for the brand in Cincinnati, Columbus, and Cleveland.

Akin Affrica

He is the leader of the Soul Republic Hospitality Group.

The details

Soul Republic Hospitality Group, led by Akin Affrica, secured the franchise rights to bring the restaurant to the area. The project will now undergo a buildout process to establish its physical storefront.

Timeline

  1. Slutty Vegan was founded in Atlanta in 2018.

  2. Columbus and Cleveland restaurant locations are expected to open in fall 2026.

Culture Shift

This move mirrors the national expansion of the Slutty Vegan brand, which has rapidly grown since its inception. The strategy reflects a broader shift toward making plant-based convenience food accessible in major urban centers.

Residents in Cincinnati can expect a new plant-based dining option once the construction and buildout process concludes. The timeline for the new location depends on the upcoming development schedule managed by the franchisee.

The takeaway

The arrival of this national brand signals a shift in the local plant-based food landscape. Potential diners should monitor for official announcements regarding the specific neighborhood site and launch timeline.

Further reading

For more information on the local restaurant scene, visit Cincinnati Dining Out.

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Do you believe new restaurant chains generally improve the variety of dining options in your community?