From Haifa, Israel, to Cape Town, South Africa, Chinese entrepreneurs and restaurateurs have brought delicious Chinese food across the globe. Unravelling a complex history of cultural migration and world politics, author and documentarian Cheuk Kwan narrates a fascinating story of culture and place, ultimately revealing how an excellent meal always tells an even better story.

Cheuk weaves a global narrative by linking the myriad personal stories of chefs, entrepreneurs, labourers and dreamers who populate Chinese kitchens worldwide. Behind these kitchen doors lies an intriguing paradox that characterizes many of these communities: how Chinese immigrants have resisted - or often been prevented from - complete assimilation into the social fabric of their new homes, maintaining strong senses of cultural identity, while the engine of their economic survival - the Chinese restaurant and its food - has become seamlessly woven into cities all around the world.

Cheuk will be in conversation with Evelyn Kwong, a Chinese-Canadian journalist and editor working at the Toronto Star to amplify voices through her #InTheirOwnVoices column, a section of first-person essays on inequities, identity and voices. She also works at finding new audiences who haven't been covered in mainstream news in hopes access to information for all, younger and diverse audiences, can be a reality.

This Live & Online Small Business program is presented in celebration of Asian Heritage Month.

This 1-hour program will be recorded and available for replay at the same link.

Questions about online programs? Please email us at programproposals@tpl.ca

Toronto Public Library is committed to accessibility. Please call or email us if you are Deaf or have a disability and would like to request an accommodation to participate in this program. Please let us know as far in advance as possible and we will do our best to meet your request. At least three weeks' notice is preferred. Phone 416-393-7099 or email accessibleservices@tpl.ca

Have You Eaten Yet? Stories From Chinese Restaurants Around the World