Chi'Lantro BBQ

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Chi'Lantro BBQ is a Korean-Mexican fusion restaurant chain based in Austin, Texas. The name "Chi'Lantro" is a portmanteau of "kimchi" and "cilantro," reflecting the blend of Korean and Mexican culinary traditions. The restaurant is known for its innovative dishes that combine elements from both cuisines, such as kimchi fries and Korean BBQ tacos.

History

Chi'Lantro BBQ was founded by Jae Kim in 2010. Kim, originally from South Korea, moved to the United States and eventually settled in Austin. Inspired by the food truck culture and his own culinary background, he launched Chi'Lantro as a food truck. The concept quickly gained popularity, leading to the opening of multiple brick-and-mortar locations.

Menu

The menu at Chi'Lantro BBQ features a variety of fusion dishes that incorporate traditional Korean ingredients like bulgogi, kimchi, and gochujang with Mexican staples such as tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. Some of the most popular items include:

• **Kimchi Fries**: French fries topped with caramelized kimchi, Korean BBQ, cheese, onions, cilantro, and a signature sauce.
• **Korean BBQ Tacos**: Soft tacos filled with Korean BBQ meats, kimchi, and various toppings.
• **Bibimbap**: A Korean rice bowl with assorted vegetables, a choice of protein, and a fried egg, often served with gochujang sauce.

Locations

Chi'Lantro BBQ has several locations in Austin, Texas, and has expanded to other cities in the state. The restaurant continues to operate food trucks in addition to its physical locations.

Cultural Impact

Chi'Lantro BBQ has been featured in various media outlets and has received numerous awards for its unique fusion cuisine. The restaurant gained national attention when Jae Kim appeared on the television show Shark Tank, where he successfully secured an investment to expand the business.

See Also

• Korean cuisine
• Mexican cuisine
• Food truck
• Fusion cuisine