Pinky Cole

Pinky Cole, a visionary restaurateur, launched her entrepreneurial journey after earning recognition as Miss CAU at Clark Atlanta University in 2008. She transitioned into television, serving as a producer for ‘Judge Karen’s Court’ in 2010 before working as a casting director for programs such as ‘Iyanla: Fix My Life.’ Cole then made her initial foray into the culinary world, opening Pinky’s Jamaican and American Restaurant in Harlem in 2014. This venture operated for two years, cultivating her foundational experience in the restaurant industry before its closure in 2016. In July 2018, Cole re-entered the food sector by introducing vegan burgers through delivery applications, rapidly building a dedicated customer base.

Cole’s impact extended beyond her restaurants, earning her a prestigious spot on the Time magazine 100 Next list in 2023 for her significant cultural influence. Further showcasing her versatile entrepreneurship, she authored the critically acclaimed cookbook ‘Eat Plants, Btch: 91 Vegan Recipes That Will Blow Your Meat-Loving Mind,’ published in November 2022, followed by her self-help book ‘I Hope You Fail.’ Continuing to innovate, Cole successfully reacquired full ownership of Slutty Vegan on March 28, 2025, following a strategic restructuring in early 2025. The company has since pivoted to a franchising model, strategically positioning itself for global expansion. Her ongoing influence in the plant-based culinary scene was further highlighted in 2024 when VegNews recognized her as one of the ’17 Black Vegan Chefs Redefining Plant-Based Food and Community.’ Beyond her business ventures, Cole champions community upliftment through The Pinky Cole Foundation, dedicated to supporting children of color and fostering entrepreneurial growth.