I spent my life savings on a NYC deli that was infested with rodents. Now, I bring in up to $4,000 a day thanks to 1 viral sandwich.

Business Insider

• Joshua Dat invested his life savings to open Datz Deli in Queens with his father.
• The business struggled at first until Dat created the Mac Patty — a burger with mac and cheese.
• Dat's family now runs two successful Datz Deli locations, and he's looking to open a third.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Joshua Dat, 33, owner of Datz Deli and creator of the Mac Patty in New York City. It has been edited for length and clarity.