Spicy King
Truman: Our restaurant focuses on authentic Sichuan cuisine followed by Chongqing snacks and hot pot. Chongqing Hot Pot and Chongqing Xiao Main are famous all over the world. Something that makes my restaurants so unique is I have my own private home cuisine since I am the Gold Medalist of the 3rd National Cooking Competition and the Manchu-Han Imperial Feast.
Irene: Then I know you have three restaurants in Chinatown, why did you decide to open so many branches in Chinatown?
Truman: Chinatown represents China. First, the Spicy King serves authentic Sichuan cuisine, which basically includes all the dishes that can be eaten in Chongqing. Then Chong Qing Xiao Mian focuses on noodles because our noodles are very distinctive. For example, Tan Tan Noodles, Spicy Beef Noodle Soup, and Hot and Sour Noodles are all classic snacks in Chongqing. The last restaurant, Pot & Noodle, specializes in hot pot. Instead of the big hot pot, we have also prepared small hot pots for each person during Covid because we must pay attention to hygiene now. For this restaurant, I also serve some private dishes such as some dishes that I have won in various competitions.
Irene: I see that your three restaurants are doing very well, can you share your secret to success?
Truman: First, I am a chef, so I cook with my heart. Then I pay great attention to the selection of ingredients, so the ingredients are very good and fresh. Next, we will continue to innovate. In addition to traditional dishes, we will also provide innovative dishes, so our customers can be surprised when they come and can let them try new dishes.
Irene: What do you hope to see for the future of Chinatown?
Truman: I hope Chinatown can be more prosperous than right now. Then I think the most important thing is public security. I have had a lot of customers say that their car got smashed in Chinatown. Also, I have been robbed three times by being threatened with a gun. So, I hope the safety in Chinatown can improve. I believe this is what other people want to see, especially those in the catering industry and in small businesses. We feel scared when we get off work at 10 pm, and we can’t stay later.