Orlando-based Hawkers filing for bankruptcy but keeping restaurants open

Orlando-based restaurant Hawkers announced this week it will file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy to protect itself from what the company called a “hyper-aggressive” lender.

Hawkers, which serves Asian street food, operates 15 restaurants in seven states — including one in St. Petersburg — and said all locations will remain open and continue normal operations during bankruptcy proceedings.

The company entered into a “debt capital agreement” in early 2023, borrowing $23 million to grow the company nationally.