Keith Lee Partners With Brooklyn Dumpling Shop, Marking His First Investment In The Restaurant Industry – AfroTech
Keith Lee has made his first investment in the restaurant space.
Lee, a content creator with 17.4 million followers on TikTok alone (as of this writing), is known for dedicating his time to amplifying mom-and-pop restaurants and small businesses. He doesn’t seek preferential treatment, ensuring he has the same experience as everyday customers while delivering authentic reviews that have often changed the trajectory of a business altogether.
Examples include Janel Prator, founder of The Puddery, who was on the brink of closing her shop until a food review from Lee went viral, as AFROTECH™ previously reported. Prator was also given a $50,000 grant from Lee in partnership with Toast through its “Little Things” campaign.
While Lee’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurs has long guided him, he is taking it to the next level by joining his family to invest in Brooklyn Dumpling Shop, an Asian-inspired fusion restaurant and consumer products brand with 22 operating locations, according to a press release.
This marks his first brand investment.
“Keith’s all about trust and authenticity and honesty,” said Jeff Gallety, chairman and CEO of Brooklyn Dumpling Shop, according to Franchise Times. “We started talking about a partnership investment, and it came from a place that he loves … and it was then able to grow organically from there.”
Lee commented in the press release:
“I’ve always believed that food brings people together, and that’s what stood out to me about Brooklyn Dumpling Shop. It’s creative, it’s accessible, and it doesn’t cut corners on flavor. Partnering with Brooklyn Dumpling Shop is about more than just great food, it’s about community, culture, and creating experiences people can enjoy and trust. I’m excited to be part of what they’re building and to help introduce even more people to something special.”
In a TikTok video, Lee teased that exciting updates are on the way for Brooklyn Dumpling Shop, both from a labor and a business perspective. He shared that Brooklyn Dumpling Shop will also be among the vendors at Lee’s upcoming FamiLee Day, a one-day festival on May 16 in New Orleans.
@keith_lee125 Brooklyn Dumpling Shop taste test 💕 would you try it ? 💕 #foodcritic @Brooklyn Dumpling Shop
