What’s Your View

While doing some research recently I came across an interesting website that had compiled the Asian American Women's Wall of Fame, which included names of appointees as well as a click-through option to read a bit about each person’s background and accomplishments. There was a call to the website visitor to participate and suggest additional names, as well as why we felt these Asian women deserved to be placed among the other greats. There were actresses, sports figures, political activists (from all sides), novelists, business people, etc. I then checked some other websites where I found similarly compiled listings citing the most awe inspiring Asian Americans, who we recognized, looked up to and wanted to emulate in some manner. Even with today’s great interest in cooking (cookbooks, shows, even food networks), making it as a chef is apparently not that awe inspiring, according to these lists. The only Asian American associated with food that was consistently included from time to time was Ming Tsai. In my capacity as Editor it has been an honor and a distinct pleasure to meet many awe-inspiring Asian American foodservice professionals. I could name a long list of men and women who, despite many obstacles and personal challenges, have gone on to fame and fortune in the foodservice industry – and in mainstream America. And, these Asian American cuisine champions have given back so much to their communities as well as being wonderful role models for all of us, in and out of the “kitchen.” Perhaps it is time to assemble a list of awe-inspiring Asian foodservice professionals and do our best to thank them for what they have done and what they continue to do for our community. Let us start the buzz and soon the world will be looking at a website filled with wonderful stories of inspiration and hope of making it in America through offering quality Asian cuisine. What is your viewpoint? Editor-in-Chief Asian Restaurant News