Akshat Sethi’s journey to founding Thai Chili 2go, a fast-casual restaurant, is a testament to his deep-rooted passion for food, community and his commitment to providing cleaner options within the quick-service restaurant industry. Since its launch in 2013, Thai Chili 2go has quickly taken Arizona by storm, growing to over 16+ locations with eight new leases signed.
“Having been an entrepreneur for many years, I saw an opportunity to make a true impact,” said Sethi. “I bring with me a unique and innovative vision for bringing authentic Thai food to the masses while prioritizing quality, freshness and community every step of the way.”
Under Sethi’s leadership, the company has garnered recognition with awards such as Foodist’s Innovative Fast Bites, Best of Valley, Best of Phoenix and Best of Gilbert. He has led the company through adversity, driving growth and maintaining excellence in food service by achieving desirable unit economics in the ethnic quick-serve restaurant space.
Looking forward, Sethi said that he envisions Thai Chili 2go to become a household name. The firm has plans to leverage technology to enhance the guest experience through online ordering platforms, cutting-edge in-store kiosks, AI technology, custom-designed apps and innovative delivery options.
“As we expand, we’ll maintain strong connections to the communities we serve, actively participate in local events, support charitable causes and foster a welcoming environment for all,” said Sethi. “We believe in the unifying power of food and are dedicated to creating memorable experiences for our guests, both in-store and beyond.”
As a leader, Sethi said successful leaders must exhibit adaptability, visionary thinking, emotional intelligence, resilience and an innovative mindset. “These attributes enable leaders to navigate complex landscapes, inspire their teams and drive sustained success in today’s fast-paced world,” he said. “I believe in brands being for their communities – we’re all in this together and cannot do it alone.”
Sethi relies on his superpower of gratitude, infusing every aspect of his life with a sense of appreciation that creates a positive atmosphere and fuels creativity to energize teams.
“I understand that the heart of any successful venture lies in its people, and I have worked tirelessly to build a team where everyone feels valued, motivated and excited to come to work each day,” said Sethi. “I’ve never been afraid to roll up my sleeves, many times cooking alongside team members during busy times, showing everyone we’re in this together.”
