DRIVEN BY PURPOSE
HISTORY
1972
Immigrated to LA
Young Lee immigrates from South Korea to South Los Angeles. LA becomes his home for much of his younger life, where he quickly finds that restaurants serving affordable, healthy meals are hard to come by.
1994
Simply Magic Sauce is Born
Young and his wife, Sarah, start dreaming up a new kind of restaurant as a way to support their growing family and provide healthy, affordable food to the community. They create the Simply Magic® Sauce recipe in their home kitchen for a taste that’s more flavorful and higher quality than other sauces out there.
1995
First Store Opens
Young and Sarah open the first Flame Broiler restaurant in Orange County, CA. The new restaurant combines the traditional flavors of South Korea with the unique tastes of Los Angeles to create a one-of-a-kind menu.
1999
Franchising Begins
As word of Young’s healthy menu and quick service spread, customers want in on the action. Young sees franchising as a way to benefit others from what he created by giving them an opportunity to be business owners, too.
2009
Giving Back
Giving back to the community has always been a huge part of Flame Broiler’s business model. In 2009, Young pledges to sponsor two children in need for every Flame Broiler location that opens. Today, through The Flame Broiler, Inc., Young continues this commitment.
2024
The Next Generation
Today, Young’s three sons – Daniel, Christian, and David – have all joined the family business. They are dedicated to continuing the brand’s legacy and their mission of providing greater access to healthy food in all communities.