Things aren’t looking too bright for Toronto’s Parkdale Popeyes location, which has been seized by its landlord due to unpaid rent.

The issue first came to light when a Toronto resident posted in a local social media group, claiming that a notice on the storefront stated the fast-food chain’s Parkdale outpost — known for its New Orleans-style fried chicken — had five days to pay $14,000 in overdue rent.

blogTO has since confirmed that a formal Notice of Distress is now posted on the restaurant’s front door, stating that the landlord has seized the property’s contents due to non-payment.

popeyes in toronto

Photo courtesy of Natalia Buia.

The notice further states that if the outstanding amount isn’t settled within five days, the landlord may take possession of the items and sell them to recover the debt. Popeyes may still access the space with permission, as the lease has not yet been terminated.

If social media reactions are anything to go by, the news hasn’t come as a surprise to many Toronto residents, with people criticizing the location’s customer service. “The servings were nowhere near what other locations make, and the service was particularly bad,” one Facebook user wrote.

Another added, “The franchise RBi and some locations have been suffering because of high costs and rents, and the quality of service and staff suffered, so it doesn’t surprise me if it closes.” 

This isn’t the first time a Toronto Popeyes location has faced issues. In fact, it appears to be part of a growing trend, with several locations across the city dealing with closures or financial woes in recent years.

For instance, the restaurant at 2633 Lawrence Ave. E., in Scarborough, recently made headlines over allegations of unpaid staff and unsanitary conditions. Other locations, including those in the Beaches and Christie Pits, have also shut down within the past two years.

It is no secret that rising rents and inflation continue to put pressure on businesses across Toronto. Whether the Parkdale Popeyes can recover from this setback remains to be seen, or if it will follow the same path as other locations and close its doors for good.

The Popeye’s in Parkdale is located at 1402 Queen St. W.Â