Brooklyn Dumpling Shop
Keith Lee has invested in a restaurant for the first time, joining Brooklyn Dumpling Shop as a stakeholder in a multi-year partnership.
The viral food critic has built an audience of more than 20 million followers across platforms and was announced as an investor in Brooklyn Dumpling Shop on March 3. The company called the move a major milestone as it continues expanding across North America.
Lee will celebrate the partnership with a pop-up appearance at the brand’s Dallas location on March 6, 2026, where he will serve guests and meet fans in person. On top of that, the first 100 people in line will receive free merchandise.
Keith Lee makes his first restaurant investment
The brand currently operates 22 locations and has additional development planned across the US and Canada. It also has a growing consumer packaged goods and foodservice presence.
Lee said the decision to invest was rooted in his connection to the brand’s food and values.
“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,” Lee said.
“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.”
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Chairman and CEO Jeff Galletly said the partnership had been a long-time goal for the company.
“In addition to our active current partners, as our team thought about who else would be a dream addition to our broader team, every one of us said ‘Keith Lee.’ Keith has built his reputation on great food, authenticity, and trust, which is what we’re all about,” Galletly said.
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“When we connected with Keith’s team, it was then a dream come true to learn he loved our food and wanted to make us his first investment. It validated the strength of our brand, products, and long-term vision.
“As we continue to expand across North America, having a globally recognized partner who not only drives organic demand, but also understands taste, quality, and what consumers want, strengthens our value proposition for our team, fans, franchisees, retailers, and investors, and will allow more people to try our incredible food.”
Brooklyn Dumpling Shop is backed by a handful of notable investors, including Keith Lee, Shark Tank star Kevin O’Leary, Stephen Ross, Matt Higgins, The New York Yankees baseball team, and singer Patti LaBelle.
