Rapper 2 Chainz challenges food critic Keith Lee over negative review of his Atlanta restaurant

Rapper 2 Chainz publicly questioned the validity of a negative review given to his Atlanta restaurant, Esco Restaurant & Tapas, by food critic Keith Lee.

The exchange occurred during a panel discussion for Kirk Franklin’s Den of Kings event, which also featured comedians Mojo Brookzz and Desi Banks. The group discussed their paths to fame and the personal challenges they faced along the way.

After Lee spoke about overcoming social anxiety to build a following on TikTok, 2 Chainz raised the issue of the Esco review. He stated that while he accepted the review as Lee’s opinion, he remained frustrated by the criticism from a prominent social media voice. He asked, “Who is buddy?!”

Lee defended his assessment by arguing that his perspective comes from a consumer within the Black community rather than a professional chef. He emphasized that his reviews aim to reflect the experience of ordinary diners.

Lee argued that celebrities often receive different service levels than regular customers. He noted that figures like 2 Chainz, Mojo Brookzz, Desi Banks, and Kirk Franklin would receive a distinct experience compared to an average person in the audience.

Lee recalled sending his mother-in-law to several Atlanta restaurants where she struggled to receive service, contrasting that with his own immediate seating. “I go in, table ready right now,” he said. 2 Chainz countered that such preferential treatment is a standard part of the industry.

The conversation highlighted the tension between celebrity ownership and independent food criticism. The clip of their discussion is available online for viewers to examine the full context of their disagreement.