CO-CEO
GEN RESTAURANT GROUP
WHY: Runs 12-year-old all-you-can-eat Korean barbecue chain that got its start in Tustin; now based in Cerritos. Previously led Mexican restaurant chain Baja Fresh.
IN THE NEWS: Raised $43.2M in June IPO, above the $25M Gen said it aimed to raise in filings. IPO underwritten by Roth Capital Partners.
NOTABLE: Since 2020, nearly tripled annual revenue to $164 million last year. Counts 32 locations across the country, including its initial spot in Tustin, plus sites in Fullerton and Huntington Beach. Gen represented by Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher and Stradling Yocca Carlson & Rauth.
