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(This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.)
Stocksy/Adobe Stock
SELF:Why did you become such an advocate for New York Citys Chinatown?
In January 2020, before there were anyCOVID-19 casesin America, I saw that Manhattans Chinatown had emptied out.
Last year, Chinatown lost one restaurant that was 65 years old calledWK 69 Bayard Restaurant.
We lost a bakery that was over 50 years old called Lung Moon.
That’s what really scared me.
It made me think that if these restaurants keep going down, there will be no Chinatown.
It just never occurred to me that you could lose Chinatown.
I realized that I had to start supporting these restaurants.
Every time I walk into Chinatown, it hurts.
SELF: Youve talked to a lot of people living in Chinatown for your projects.
What did you learn?
I realized that Chinatown operates on such small profit margins.
How much could they possibly be making from a bowl of wonton noodle soup?
And it’s charming.
And it’s the real deal.
It is one of America’s great centers for Chinese culture and cuisine.
Its animportant part of America.
I have a special store that I like to go to for sponge cake.
SELF:How have you supported Chinatown this past year?
Before the pandemic, I would always say, Home cooking is much better.
I want people to cook my recipes.
But in the last year, I’ve eaten more takeout than I have in my entire life.
I knew that if we weren’t buying takeout, these restaurants were going to go down.
My social media accounts became Chinatown accounts.
I am just trying to drive business in any which way I can.
Anytime I get a story assignment I ask to write about Chinatown.
SELF: Can you talk about your current campaigns to support Chinese-owned businesses in Manhattan and around the country?
I didnt have enough followers to make an impact, so I reached out to the James Beard Foundation.
SELF: Some people might say that all restaurants are having financial troubles.
Why should people support Chinese restaurants specifically?
My heart goes out to them.
Thats a horrible reality that theyve had to deal with.
Its more important than ever that we show oursolidarity in standing with Asian Americans.
Everyone needs to do their part to stop Asian hate.
Show your support by patronizing Asian restaurants and mom-and-pop stores.
Pay cash, tip generously, offer to pick up takeout for your friends and neighbors.
By keeping your local mom-and-pop businesses vibrant, you are supporting the community.
