Our Story

The Chopt Story

From a single kitchen in New York to a beloved chopt restaurant destination — discover the passion, people, and purpose behind every plate we serve.

Interior of Chopt restaurant in New York
Est. 2001 New York, USA

Born From a Love of
Bold, Fresh Flavors

Chopt began with a simple belief: that eating well shouldn't be a compromise. Our founders, passionate food lovers with a vision for a better kind of restaurant, opened the first chopt kitchen in New York's Flatiron District in 2001. We wanted to prove that fast food could also be real food — vibrant, nourishing, and full of character.

Every dish we create draws from the freshest seasonal ingredients, sourced from local farms and trusted suppliers. Our culinary team experiments relentlessly, combining bold global flavors with the comfort of familiar favorites. The result is a menu that feels both exciting and like coming home.

Today, Chopt serves thousands of guests every week, but our heart is the same as it was on day one — a deep commitment to food that makes you feel great, served by people who genuinely care.

20+
Years of Flavor
150+
Team Members
500K+
Happy Guests
#1
NYC Fresh Food

Our Mission & Core Values

Every decision we make — from ingredient sourcing to how we greet guests — is guided by these four pillars that define what Chopt stands for.

Fresh Always

We source ingredients daily from local farms and trusted partners. Nothing frozen, nothing artificial — ever. Freshness isn't a feature at Chopt; it's a standard.

Made With Care

From preparation to plating, every step is taken with intention and heart. We believe the energy put into food is felt in every bite, so we put our best into everything.

Community First

Chopt is more than a restaurant — it's a gathering place. We invest in our neighborhood, support local causes, and foster a welcoming space for everyone who walks through our door.

Sustainably Minded

We reduce waste, use eco-friendly packaging, and partner with suppliers who share our values. Great food and a healthy planet can — and must — coexist.

The Chopt Restaurant Timeline

Two decades of growth, innovation, and unwavering dedication to serving great food to the people of New York.

2001
The First Kitchen Opens

Our founders opened the original Chopt location in New York's Flatiron District with a 12-item menu and a bold dream: redefine fast, fresh food in the city.

2005
First Culinary Award

Chopt received its first NYC Dining Excellence Award, recognizing our commitment to quality ingredients and innovative flavor combinations that set us apart.

2009
Online Ordering Launched

We were early adopters of digital ordering in the restaurant industry, making it easier than ever for New Yorkers to enjoy Chopt at home or in the office.

2013
Farm-to-Table Partnership

We formalized our network of local farm partnerships, guaranteeing that 80% of our produce is sourced within 150 miles of our kitchen — fresher than ever.

2017
Catering Program Expands

Our corporate catering service grew to serve over 200 businesses across Manhattan, bringing Chopt's bold flavors directly to offices, events, and private gatherings.

2022
New Era — Digital & Delivery

Chopt relaunched with an all-new digital experience, faster delivery infrastructure, and a refreshed menu celebrating our two decades of culinary evolution.

2001
The First Kitchen Opens

Our founders opened the original Chopt location in New York's Flatiron District with a bold dream to redefine fast, fresh food.

2005
First Culinary Award

We received our first NYC Dining Excellence Award, recognizing our commitment to quality and innovative flavors.

2009
Online Ordering Launched

We became early adopters of digital ordering, making Chopt accessible at home and in the office across New York.

2013
Farm-to-Table Partnership

80% of our produce now sourced within 150 miles — our formal local farm network brings unmatched freshness to every plate.

2017
Catering Program Expands

Corporate catering grew to serve 200+ Manhattan businesses, bringing Chopt's bold flavors to offices and events citywide.

2022
New Era — Digital & Delivery

An all-new digital experience, faster delivery, and a refreshed menu celebrating two decades of culinary evolution at Chopt.

Meet Our Team

Our talented crew brings together culinary expertise, creative energy, and a shared love for great food — every single day.

Marcus Reid, Executive Chef at Chopt restaurant
Marcus Reid
Executive Chef

With 18 years across Michelin-starred kitchens in NYC and Paris, Marcus brings world-class culinary instinct to every Chopt creation.

"Great food is honest food — nothing hidden, nothing wasted."
Sofia Reyes, Head of Menu Development at Chopt
Sofia Reyes
Menu Development

Sofia's background in nutritional science and global cuisine shapes every new dish we launch — bold on flavor, thoughtful on balance.

"Food should excite you and nourish you — never a trade-off."
Daniel Park, Head of Operations at Chopt
Daniel Park
Head of Operations

Daniel ensures every Chopt guest experience is seamless — from the kitchen to the counter. 12 years of hospitality operations expertise.

"Speed matters, but never at the cost of quality or care."
Aisha Thompson, Sustainability Lead at Chopt restaurant
Aisha Thompson
Sustainability Lead

Aisha drives Chopt's environmental mission, overseeing waste reduction, eco-packaging, and our farmer partnership program across the region.

"What's good for the planet should also taste incredible."

Want to be part of the Chopt family? We're always looking for passionate people.

View Open Positions Order Now

Taste the Chopt
Difference Today

Every story is best understood through experience. Come visit us at our New York location or place your order online — fresh food, bold flavors, waiting for you.