From humble beginnings washing dishes to presiding over a restaurant empire of 250+ locations, the story of Amol Kohli exemplifies the American dream. His journey, fueled by determination and a keen understanding of the restaurant business, is an inspiring tale of immigrant success in the United States.
Kohli's journey began in 2003 when, as a high school student in Philadelphia, he sought a job for some extra spending money. He landed a position at Friendly's, a family restaurant chain, earning a modest $5 an hour. His responsibilities were not limited to waiting tables; he immersed himself in all aspects of the restaurant, from cooking and dishwashing to bussing tables. This hands-on experience provided him with a foundational understanding of the industry.
While pursuing a finance and marketing degree at Drexel University, Kohli continued to work at Friendly's during the summers. He went beyond his assigned tasks and began assisting franchisees, gaining insights into payroll, food costs, and insurance. This exposure solidified his passion for the restaurant business, leading him to choose Friendly's over a career in finance after graduating in 2011.
Kohli's commitment and understanding of the brand propelled him to the position of regional manager. He then took a significant leap, investing his savings and securing support from friends and business partners to own a Friendly's location. His franchising journey took off from there, and he eventually owned 31 Friendly's restaurants.
However, Kohli's ambitions did not stop there. In May 2023, he formed Legacy Brands International with the goal of acquiring Brix Holdings, the parent company of Friendly's and several other restaurant chains. This acquisition came at a crucial time, as Friendly's had filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2020 due to the impact of the pandemic. Kohli saw an opportunity to revive the struggling brand and reimagine career paths within the food service industry.
The acquisition of Brix Holdings by Legacy Brands International was finalized in July 2025. This deal, funded through a combination of equity and debt financing, marked the culmination of years of hard work and strategic planning. As the owner of Legacy Brands International, Kohli now controls over 250 restaurant outlets.
Kohli recognizes the challenges ahead, particularly in modernizing Friendly's and attracting new franchisees in a competitive market. However, his vision extends beyond simply reviving a brand; he aims to redefine food service careers, instilling a sense of pride and opportunity in an industry often viewed as a stepping stone.
Amol Kohli's story is a testament to the power of perseverance, continuous learning, and strategic thinking. His journey from washing dishes to owning a major restaurant group is an inspiring example of how dedication and a deep understanding of the business can lead to extraordinary success, proving that the American dream is still attainable through hard work and determination.
