Chi'Lantro BBQ

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Chi'Lantro BBQ is a restaurant chain based in Austin, Texas, known for its unique fusion of Korean cuisine and Texan cuisine, particularly the combination of Korean BBQ with Mexican-American dishes such as tacos and burritos. The name "Chi'Lantro" is a portmanteau of "kimchi" and "cilantro," reflecting its fusion of Korean and Mexican flavors. Founded by Jae Kim in 2010, Chi'Lantro started as a food truck and quickly gained popularity, leading to the opening of multiple brick-and-mortar locations across Austin.

History[edit | edit source]

Chi'Lantro BBQ was founded by Jae Kim, an entrepreneur with a passion for food and a desire to share the flavors of his Korean heritage blended with the Texan love for BBQ. Starting with a single food truck in Austin in 2010, Chi'Lantro's innovative menu and commitment to quality quickly attracted a loyal following. The signature dish that garnered widespread attention is the "Kimchi Fries," a dish that exemplifies the fusion of Korean and Texan cuisines, featuring french fries topped with bulgogi (Korean BBQ beef), kimchi, onions, cilantro, cheese, and a special sauce.

As the popularity of Chi'Lantro BBQ grew, the business expanded from its original food truck to include several brick-and-mortar restaurants in Austin. The expansion allowed Chi'Lantro to reach a wider audience and further solidify its place in the Austin food scene.

Menu[edit | edit source]

Chi'Lantro BBQ's menu is a reflection of its founding concept, offering a variety of dishes that blend Korean flavors with Texan and Mexican culinary traditions. Key menu items include:

  • Kimchi Fries: The dish that became synonymous with Chi'Lantro, featuring crispy french fries topped with bulgogi, kimchi, melted cheese, onions, cilantro, and a special sauce.
  • Korean BBQ Tacos: Soft tacos filled with Korean BBQ meats such as bulgogi or spicy pork, topped with slaw, cilantro, onions, and Chi'Lantro's special sauce.
  • Bibimbap: A traditional Korean dish adapted by Chi'Lantro, consisting of rice topped with assorted vegetables, a choice of meat, and a fried egg, served with a side of spicy gochujang sauce.
  • Burritos: Large, flour tortillas filled with rice, beans, cheese, a choice of Korean BBQ meat, and other toppings, offering a hearty fusion meal.

Impact and Recognition[edit | edit source]

Chi'Lantro BBQ has been recognized for its innovative approach to fusion cuisine, contributing to the broader trend of Korean-Mexican fusion food in the United States. The restaurant has received numerous accolades for its food, including features in local and national media outlets. Its success is indicative of a growing appetite for new culinary experiences and the blending of diverse food traditions.

Chi'Lantro's impact extends beyond its menu, as it represents the potential for food trucks to evolve into successful brick-and-mortar businesses. It also highlights the importance of cultural exchange in the culinary world, showcasing how traditional dishes can be reimagined through the lens of different culinary traditions.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Chi'Lantro BBQ Resources
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