There has been a significant development in the Turkey Leg Hut saga as a court-appointed trustee filed a motion in the ongoing bankruptcy case that could have lasting implications for the popular restaurant.
On Friday, the Houston Health Department took action by shutting down Turkey Leg Hut due to nearly three dozen violations, some of which posed an “imminent threat to public health.”
With 35 violations identified by the health department, concerns over the restaurant’s operations intensify. Owner Nakia Holmes filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in March, hoping to continue business under a trustee’s management.
However, given the severity of the health violations and other issues, the court-appointed trustee is now seeking to convert the proceedings to a Chapter 7 bankruptcy, which would result in the liquidation of the business.
Legal expert Carmen Roe noted the likelihood of the judge granting the motion, signaling potential closure for Turkey Leg Hut. The pit room, essential for smoking the signature turkey legs, is cited as a critical operational concern in the filing.
In a Chapter 7 bankruptcy, the business ceases operations, and assets are sold to settle outstanding debts with creditors. Bankruptcy court judges typically defer to the trustee’s recommendation, with parties having 21 days to respond to the recent filing before a ruling is made.