SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — San Francisco’s Chinatown, the oldest such enclave in North America, stands as both a historic landmark and a vibrant culinary destination. Chinese-American celebrity chef Martin Yan reflects, “Every time I walk through these streets, I discover something new—or rediscover a forgotten piece of my past.” The documentary Viewing China from Afar: To Eat in My Chinatown” was produced by People’s Daily Online USA West.
In this episode, Yan guides viewers through Chinatown’s rich culinary landscape, from historic institutions to innovative new establishments. His journey begins at the Komyng Hotel, often described as a living museum. Adorned with traditional Chinese palace lanterns, intricately carved wood panels, and vibrant murals, the hotel features private dining rooms for festive gatherings, preserving cultural heritage in every detail.
The documentary then explores Chinatown’s fascinating contrasts, where century-old establishments stand alongside modern culinary innovators. A standout is Four Kings, a nostalgic Cantonese concept created by former chefs from Michelin-starred Mister Jiu’s. With its bustling open kitchen and creative dishes like XO escargot and mapo-style spaghetti, Four Kings has quickly become a culinary sensation. Recognized as one of Bon Appétit’s 20 Best New Restaurants of 2024 and added to the Michelin Guide in March 2025, it has earned Restaurant of the Year honors from both Esquire and Eater San Francisco, while the San Francisco Chronicle hailed it as the city’s “most fun” dining experience.
From historic landmarks to contemporary hotspots, Chinatown remains a neighborhood where chefs and diners—united by their appreciation for Chinese culinary traditions—come together to honor the past while embracing bold reinvention. Through Yan’s expert perspective, Chinatown’s culinary map emerges as a living narrative of cultural preservation and creative evolution.
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SOURCE People’s Daily Online USA WEST
