Chain Leader

Link This | Email this | Blog This | Comments (0)

Rising Star
February 21, 2007

Last fall, I wrote an article about Kenny Lao, the energetic founder of Rickshaw Dumpling Bar in New York City. He created the Asian-themed concept with partner and business-school friend David Weber after the pair raised $600,000 to open the fast-casual eatery in Manhattan.

Lao, who grew up in Pasadena, Calif., was recently named one of Crain’s New York Business ’ “Forty Under Forty.” The honor puts him in illustrious company. Over the years, Andrea Immer, Eric Ripert, Bobby Flay, David Bouley, Andrew Portale, Marcus Samuelsson and Terrance Brennan have shared the same spotlight.

If you have a minute, watch Lao’s video interview on Crain’s Web site. He explains how he got interested in restaurants (growing up, Lao ate out three or four times a week) and how he developed his palate (his foodie stepfather never let him order from the kids’ menu).

Worst thing about the restaurant business? Declares Lao: “It never stops.&rdquo

Posted by David Farkas on February 21, 2007 | Comments (0)