David Zhao: The Rise of David Zhao's $100 Million Restaurant Brand

Recognized by Forbes in their prestigious 30 Under 30 Food & Drink list for 2022, and together with his partner, Haibin Yang, David Zhao founded Chubby Cattle International (CCI), a multi-concept restaurant group that owns over 10 restaurants located nationwide, including renowned restaurants such as X-Pot, Chubby Cattle, Mikiya Wagyu Shabu House, and Michelin-starred Niku X.

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Investment Opportunity for AHN members (Available to Accredited Investors only)

We are excited to announce that AHN Ventures has partnered with Unity Angels to offer accredited investors within the AHN network the opportunity to participate in a convertible note financing for Chubby Cattle International (CCI) secured by Unity Angels. This deal aligns with AHN and Unity Angel's mission to elevate AAPI founders and democratize access to deals. Beyond just providing funding, Unity Angels is also committed to adding tangible and substantive value as an investment community, specifically by harnessing our extensive network of F&B founders, industry partners, and strategic investors to provide ongoing support and valuable resources to CCI. Complete this form to learn more about this unique opportunity. If you have value-add resources relevant to this investment opportunity, please also reach out.

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David's inspiring journey unfolded as he transitioned from a teenage freelancer building websites and branding restaurants to establishing himself as a visionary entrepreneur, passionate activist, and astute investor, spearheading a remarkable $100 million restaurant brand.

David and Haibin have revolutionized the traditional Chinese hot pot and yakiniku experience by incorporating cutting-edge technologies such as robotic servers and high-end laser projectors. These advancements have elevated Chubby Cattle to new heights, with 10 locations across the United States — and another 20 locations opening by 2024, $28 million in funding, and a projected revenue of $100 million this year.

David and Haibin's innovative approach extends beyond their restaurants. They have expanded their influence with wagyu frozen goods, unique vending machine restaurants, and even NFT lifetime memberships, which gives the holders access to free food for life, priority reservations, discounts, private events, and more.

However, the road to success was not without challenges. When David and Haibin opened their first Chubby Cattle restaurant in Las Vegas in 2013, they faced three years of financial struggle, with no salaries to sustain themselves.

The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 presented a whole new set of obstacles. With Las Vegas under strict restrictions, David had to put expansion plans on hold. To fund their delayed projects, Zhao and Yang made the bold decision to sell their houses and cars.

Now, they are positioned to achieve a valuation of $1 billion, and to make this goal a reality, their plan is to open 50-100 locations by the end of 2026. By aiming high and continuously pushing boundaries, they are poised to make an even more significant impact in the culinary world.

According to Entrepreneur, David attributes his success to the "Mamba Mentality," a term popularized by the late Kobe Bryant, which represents unwavering focus and determination to achieve greatness. He also believes that having a partner who shares the same vision and willingness to make sacrifices is crucial for success

We expect the fundraiser to move quickly and encourage you to make your investment decision by Friday, July 7th.

Introduction to Unity Angels:

Unity Angels (UA) is a global investment network that connects a collective of family offices, business leaders, and angel investors to unique and curated alternative investment opportunities under one easy-to-use platform. We aim to redefine the investing experience by democratizing access to investment opportunities typically unavailable to non-institutional investors. Given this underserved market, UA works with our exclusive network of investors, strategic partners, and advisors who support us in identifying, creating, and catalyzing best-in-class alternative investment opportunities.

At the same time, UA seeks to create a frictionless and pleasant investment experience for our community through a free-to-see model where investors are empowered to make their own decisions on each investment opportunity. Investment opportunities include but are not limited to, commercial real estate, special situation financing, funds, cash flow financing, and early-stage startups.

 Image Source: David Zha