Even though Kim walked away from the deal, he told QRS Magazine that the experience taught him a lot about finance in the restaurant business. As of January 2020, the company grew to the point that Kim was considering a franchise program to expand beyond Austin. Then, of course, the COVID-19 pandemic came along. As of now, the Chi'lantro website does still invite potential business partners to reach out about growth, licensing, and partnership opportunities.
Otherwise, business is booming. In 2022, Chi'lantro currently has eight restaurants in Austin, up from three in 2016, although one is temporarily closed. Currently, the company has plans for two more restaurants in Austin. It also opened its first restaurant in Houston, Texas. Finally, it continues to cater events around Austin, like the city's popular SXSW film festival.
Kim might not have taken Barbara's offer, but Chi'lantro is thriving. That's no small feat in the restaurant industry, but especially during a global pandemic.
