Robert Downey Jr-Backed Chunk Foods’ Plant-Based Whole Cuts Added to Charley’s Steak House Menu

The Israeli startup Chunk Foods, backed by Robert Downey Jr's VC firm FootPrint Coalition, has added its plant-based whole-cut meat to the menu at Charley’s Steak House in Orlando. This marks the first time a US steakhouse chain is offering a vegan alternative, with their biomass-fermented filet mignon priced at $69. Chunk Foods uses solid-state fermentation to create its whole-cut beef alternative, making it highly tunable and more affordable than other methods.

Founded in 2020, Chunk Foods raised $15m in seed funding and plans to develop vegan pork, lamb, and poultry alternatives after beef. The company's vegan steak has already appeared on the menus of several New York City restaurants. Charley’s Steak House, part of the Talk of the Town Restaurant Group, has made this move to provide a more inclusive dining experience, showcasing its commitment to quality and innovation in the plant-based food space.