Jae Kim aimed to introduce something fresh to culinary enthusiasts. He founded Chi’Lantro BBQ by blending Korean and Mexican tastes. The standout dish, Kimchi fries, gained immense popularity. Jae began with merely a single food truck. Before long, his enterprise expanded to encompass restaurants and catering services. He aimed to turn Chi’Lantro into a national triumph. To accomplish this Jae appeared on Shark Tank.
He wished the sharks would recognize his vision and back him. This episode revealed how Jae conveyed his story and shared food. He wowed the sharks with his tastes and dedication. Will the entrepreneur get a deal on Shark Tank? Check out the Chi’Lantro update!
Chi’Lantro Net Worth Shark Tank Update 2025
Jae Kim asked for a $600k investment in exchange for 15% equity in his company. This meant he valued his company at $4 million. He made a deal with Barbara for $600k in exchange for 20% of his company. This new deal valued his company at $3 million. After the show aired, Chi’Lantro saw a big increase in website traffic, sales, and social media exposure. With an estimated 10% yearly growth rate (typical business growth), the current net worth of Chi’Lantro is about $7.8 million.
Chi’Lantro kept expanding following its appearance on Shark Tank. By 2024 Jae grew to 13 restaurant locations. The company currently earns between $14 million and $17 million annually. Jae turned his restaurants into cashless establishments. This allowed employees additional time to engage with clients. He also initiated pop-up events in various neighborhoods.
These assisted clients throughout the pandemic. Chi’Lantro has started providing catering services and collaborates with food delivery companies. They intend to expand outside of Texas. They plan to arrive at 15 sites shortly. Chi’Lantro delivers more than 200,000 servings of Kimchi fries annually. Community activities and social networks assist them in maintaining a connection with followers.
Yes Jae struck an agreement with Barbara Corcoran. He requested $600,000 in exchange for 15% ownership. Barbara proposed $600,000 for a 30% stake. Jae responded with 20% and Barbara concurred. Nonetheless, the agreement was not finalized following the event. Nonetheless, Shark Tank contributed to the expansion of Chi’Lantro. The publicity attracted additional customers and media interest. This allowed Jae to grow his business effectively.
| Shark(s) Name | Offer & Demand | Counter Offer | Accepted? |
| Lori Greiner | Out | N/A | N/A |
| Kevin O’Leary | Out | N/A | N/A |
| Mark Cuban | Out | N/A | N/A |
| Barbara Corcoran | $600,000 for 20% equity | N/A | Yes |
| Chris Sacca | Out | N/A | Yes |
Chi’Lantro Shark Tank pitch
Jae Kim aspired to have his own company. Initially, he attempted to operate a coffee shop. It didn’t succeed. However, Jae refused to surrender. He spotted an opportunity to combine Korean and Mexican cuisine. This concept resulted in Chi’Lantro BBQ. He began with a single food truck in Austin Texas. The term Chi’Lantro is derived from “kimchi” and “cilantro.” Jae encountered numerous obstacles.
He put in extensive hours to develop his brand. Operating a food truck was challenging. He needed to locate suitable places and manage permissions. Initially, finances were limited. However, Jae had faith in his concept. His effort was rewarded. Customers cherished his distinct flavors. Before long he was prepared to grow his business.
Jae walked into Shark Tank with high expectations. He revealed his experience with the sharks. He began with merely a single food truck. He now owned several trucks and three eateries. He informed the sharks that his company generated $4.7 million in revenue last year. Jae requested $600,000 in exchange for 15% equity. He demonstrated what makes Chi’Lantro unique.
The menu can be modified. Clients can select levels of spice and toppings. The sharks sampled his meal. They adored the Kimchi fries. Jae explained how his restaurants and food trucks generated revenue. Food trucks generated $400,000. Every restaurant made as much as $1.5 million. Jae sought the funding to launch additional sites. He expressed his enthusiasm for sharing his culture through cuisine.
The sharks were filled with numerous inquiries. Kevin O’Leary inquired about revenue and profit margins. Jae detailed his earnings figures. He provided information regarding his food trucks and eateries. Mark Cuban was interested in learning about potential growth opportunities. Jae discussed his plans for expansion across the country. The sharks inquired about the menu as well. Jae described how patrons can personalize their food options. Chris Sacca participated and created a Korean bowl.
Every shark relished the meal. They commended the tastes and distinctiveness of Chi’Lantro. Kevin O’Leary was concerned about the difficulties of managing restaurants. He inquired whether Jae was prepared for those risks. Jae assuredly discussed his intentions. The sharks appreciated his resolve but had varying views on investing.
The sharks reacted in various ways. Chris Sacca enjoyed the cuisine. However, he disagreed with Jae’s perspective. Thus, he chose against investing. Mark Cuban respected Jae’s dedication. Nonetheless, he believed that restaurants were not his field of expertise. Kevin O’Leary chose to withdraw as well. He experienced negative outcomes with previous restaurant investments.
Lori Greiner believed Chi’Lantro was not suitable for her. Barbara Corcoran was captivated. She proposed $600,000 in exchange for 30% equity. Jae proposed a reduction of 20% and Barbara accepted. The agreement was reached. Nonetheless, it remained open after the performance. Even in the absence of the deal Jae leveraged the Shark Tank exposure to expand his brand.
What Went Wrong With Chi’Lantro On Shark Tank?
Certain sharks chose not to invest because of personal matters. Chris Sacca enjoyed the cuisine but didn’t recognize the prospects. Mark Cuban and Kevin O’Leary steered clear of restaurant ventures. Lori Greiner didn’t sense a deep bond with the idea. The primary issue was the potential risks associated with expanding a restaurant business. Regardless of this, Barbara Corcoran had faith in Jae’s concept.
She struck an agreement. Nonetheless, the transaction was not finalized. This did not deter Jae. He leveraged the exposure from Shark Tank to expand his company.
Product Availability
Chi’Lantro provides distinctive meals. The standout dish is Kimchi fries. Patrons can also savor Korean BBQ, crunchy wings, and tailor-made bowls. The menu combines bold flavors from Korean and Mexican cuisines. Chi’Lantro eateries are located in Texas. As of 2024, they operate 13 locations. The business also operates food trucks. Event catering services are offered for occasions.
Customers have the option to place orders online via delivery applications such as DoorDash. Costs are reasonable. Dishes are crafted to accommodate various spice preferences. The business engages with supporters via social media. They post updates, recipes, and information about events.
Conclusion
Chi’Lantro’s journey on Shark Tank was a turning point. Jae shared his dream with the world. He made a deal with Barbara Corcoran. But the deal didn’t close. Still, the show helped Chi’Lantro grow. The business now has 13 locations and serves thousands of happy customers. Jae’s passion and hard work continue to drive the brand forward.
Hey there, I’m Fatima Muhammad, an International Relations student, with a focus on the strategic dynamics of global relations, One of my favorite shows is Shark Tank. I love it because it showcases the creativity, determination, and strategic thinking of entrepreneurs, which I find inspiring. The show also teaches valuable lessons about innovation, business dynamics, and the importance of perseverance in the face of challenges. Read more About me.
