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Chowbus, an operating system for independent Asian restaurants, raised an $81m Series E, CEO Linxin Wen tells Axios exclusively.

The big picture: The startup aims to address pain points specific to restaurant operators who might face language barriers.

How it works: The Chicago-based company builds software and payment tools for independent Asian and immigrant-owned restaurants, with new AI features designed to reduce operating costs and reliance on third-party agencies.

"The AI can help reply to Google and Yelp reviews. Sometimes the restaurant is not that proficient in English," Wen says. "AI voice calls to help customers place orders and make reservations is a big trend, too."

Context: The round was led by Prysm Capital and Left Lane Capital, with participation from Dutchess, Fika and Avid Bank.

By the numbers: Asian food is a $37 billion market in North America, growing over 5% annually, according to BDA Partners.

What they're saying: "Asian restaurants are a huge category—Korean barbecue, boba, hot pot, dim sum, and sushi restaurants," Matt Roberts, a partner at Prysm Capital says. "The team understands not just the broad needs of an Asian restaurant, but the needs of these specific subcategories."

Between the lines: The Series E will fund Chowbus' expansion into Canada and further development of its AI tools.

Roberts says the company has IPO ambitions but is considering multiple long-term exit paths, with current priorities centered on product development and entering new markets.

Exclusive: Chowbus raises $81M Series E

Chowbus specializes in tools for Asian and immigrant-owned restaurants.

Illustration of a hundred dollar bill with Benjamin Franklin wearing a chef's hat. 

Chowbus, an operating system for independent Asian restaurants, raised an $81m Series E, CEO Linxin Wen tells Axios exclusively.The big picture: The startup aims to address pain points specific to restaurant operators who might face language barriers.

Exclusive: Chowbus raises $81M Series E

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