These talented chefs are breaking through industry barriers with pop-ups and a dedicated community following.
by Amanda Ong
Singapore-style chili crabs, chicken adobo pot pies, gorgeous handmade pastries with flavors like black sesame and kumquat — what’s not to like? As Asian American chefs have taken advantage of the freedom and flexibility of pop-ups to break into Seattle’s food scene, they are serving all of these foods and more.
On Dec. 10, 2021, the City of Seattle Office of Economic Development (OED) and then-Mayor Jenny Durkan announced the launch of Seattle Restored — a new program focused on activating vacant commercial storefronts in Downtown Seattle neighborhoods. The program has partnered with the Seattle Good Business Network and Shunpike, as well as other property owners, to provide spaces and support for local artists and entrepreneurs who can then use their designated space for 2 to 4 months, with hopes for eventual longer-term leases and expansion into different neighborhoods.
