Dae Gee Korean BBQ has opened its first U.S. franchised location in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

“When looking for a franchise brand to bring to Fort Wayne, Dae Gee was the only concept that really stood out to us,” says franchise owner Sam Choe. “We’re excited to bring Dae Gee’s great food, endless flavors, and interactive dining experience to the people of Fort Wayne. I have no doubt the community will love it.”

Founded in 2012, Dae Gee’s rise in popularity began in 2015, when the chain was featured on restaurateur Guy Fieri’s long-running food reality television series, “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.”

Fieri says of Dae Gee, “This isn’t just any Korean restaurant. This one’s off the hook!”

Today, Dae Gee exposes customers to an interactive experience that allows them to cook their own meat on grill tops at their tables when they dine. Customers have the option to choose from a variety of traditional Korean meats like Galbee (Beef Short Ribs), Sam Gyeob Sal (Sliced Pork Belly) and Dak Bulgogi (Chicken), which are marinated in DAE GEE’s secret marinade. Each choice meat, as well as fish and vegetarian options, can be enjoyed in a bowl, hot stone pot, or tucked inside lettuce and eaten as a wrap. Entrees can be piled high with your choice of side or mixings, including rice, fresh slaw, spicy sauce, and a variety of nine side dishes, such as kimchee, broccoli, radish and fish cakes.

“Dae Gee lights up your senses and enriches the full human experience,” adds Choe. “From generations of recipes passed down, Dae Gee leaves its customers well fed with culture, humor, and top-quality home recipe style Korean food.”

Dae Gee’s arrival to Fort Wayne comes at a time when the brand looks to continue its aggressive franchise expansion across the United States. Looking ahead, Dae Gee plans to open as many as 5-10 new restaurants nationwide over the next 12 months and at least that many each year thereafter.

Other development agreements have already been signed in New Hampshire, New Jersey, South Dakota, Texas, and Mexico.