Solomon Choi

Teaches at The Korea Society

Solomon Choi is a seasoned food service industry leader, raised on the philosophy that “passion brands” are built by engaging with consumers in ways that enrich their daily lives.

Solomon’s parents, franchise owners of the largest seafood buffet in San Diego, put him to work at a young age. Over the years he learned the operations side of the franchise business, starting as a busboy and graduating to managerial positions that eventually led to a vice president role in the family business. Later, working as a Director for a hospitality Group that included a Gelato franchise and full service restaurants in Los Angeles, Solomon gained even more business operations knowledge as his responsibilities increased to managing food costs, margins, leases and more.

In 2008 the very first 16 Handles opened in New York City’s East Village. At the time, there were nine direct competitors within a four-block radius. Through smart marketing that merges grassroots, social and strong PR efforts, Solomon pioneered the concept into what is now 42 operating locations across the east coast and closed an International Agreement for 150 stores to be developed over the next 10 years in the Middle East.