In an interview with Mundo Albiceleste, Alejandro Malti, founder of Mr. Chory, explained how a simple idea—bringing the choripán to stadiums—grew into a fast-expanding venture across major events in the United States.
“We started in 2019 with a completely different business. We are honey producers and exporters—nothing to do with gastronomy,” Malti said.
The shift came years later, during visits to Inter Miami matches. Observing how food vendors operated inside the stadium sparked an idea that would eventually define their new direction.
“In 2024 we started going to Inter Miami to see how food stands worked. We kept insisting on the idea of making a choripán—it’s something very Argentine, and we felt it could work,” he explained.
The early days were far from easy. Their first attempt at selling choripanes inside the stadium did not go as planned.
“The first test was bad. We were too slow, and we got canceled,” Malti admitted.
However, they were given a second chance—and this time, they adapted. By improving speed, efficiency, and food safety, they managed to meet the demands of a stadium environment.
“We made adjustments to be faster and more effective… and we managed to handle the rush, which is key in a football stadium,” he said.
From that point on, growth came quickly. What began with modest numbers turned into consistent success.
“We sold 71 choripanes in the first game… but we finished the season averaging 600 per match,” Malti revealed.
The rise of Mr. Chory is closely tied to the Argentine presence around Inter Miami, particularly with Lionel Messi and other Argentine players influencing fan culture.
“Messi and the Argentine players are consumers of our product. People follow those trends… like with mate, when they see Messi drinking it,” he said.
Beyond Argentine fans, the concept has also been gaining traction among American audiences—although not without challenges.
“Introducing choripán has taken time, especially in American football. First, we have to explain what it is. Then they come back asking for it,” Malti explained.
To break into the market, Mr. Chory focused heavily on customer interaction and sampling.
“We made a big investment outside the counter—giving samples, explaining the product. That helped sales and recognition,” he added.
Now, the business is expanding rapidly across major venues and events. Mr. Chory already operates at Hard Rock Stadium and is preparing for a busy schedule around the 2026 World Cup.
“We have an agreement for the World Cup games in Miami and also the FIFA FanFest. It will be 23 days of Argentine gastronomic presence,” Malti confirmed.
They are also closing deals with NBA teams and MLS clubs, continuing their growth in the sports and events industry.
“We’re expanding… soon we’ll also be with the Miami Heat and Orlando City,” he said.
Despite the growth, Malti understands that building a brand in a new market requires patience and investment.
“The only way to enter a market is to invest. You have to lose to win,” he said.
While Messi may not be a choripán fan—“I know he prefers milanesas,” Malti joked—the Argentine star’s presence has still had a major indirect impact.
“Messi has changed reality. There’s no doubt he helps bring people closer to Argentine culture and food,” he said.
Today, Mr. Chory is no longer just a stadium stand—it’s a growing brand bringing Argentine flavors to a wider audience, from sports venues to private events.
“We are at major sporting events, but we also do private events—birthdays, gatherings, anything.” Malti concluded.
For updates and upcoming events, follow Mr Chory at www.mrchoryusa.com or on Instagram @mrchoryus.
