House of Chin (George Chin Restaurants: A Culinary Legacy in Champaign, Illinois) Paperback – September 16, 2024

Explore the rich culinary history of Champaign, Illinois through the lens of the George Chin Restaurants photobook series. It chronicles restaurants created by George Chin Sr. and his wife Jean Chin, who pioneered Chinese cuisine in the region, and continues with the diverse and eclectic offerings of their son, George Chin Jr. Photos, newspaper articles, advertisements, and brief commentary bring the history of each restaurant to life. From the traditional flavors of Chinese cuisine of the parents to the progressive American, Italian, and bar & grill concepts of the son, this series captures how the Chin establishments evolved in the local dining scene.Whether you’re a food enthusiast, a local history buff, or a fan of the Chin family’s culinary contributions, the George Chin Restaurants series offers a journey through time and taste, celebrating the legacy of one family’s dedication to exceptional dining.House of Chin is the first in the series, chronicling the journey of George Chin Sr., a pioneering restaurateur who immigrated from China in 1938, and his wife Jean Chin, whose hard work significantly shaped their establishments. They opened the Hong Kong restaurant together in 1959, laying the foundation for a storied legacy. The book then delves into the history of House of Chin, which began its thirty-year run on the University of Illinois campus in 1964. Highlights include George Sr.'s landmark legal battle that reshaped campus bar regulations, his legendary Chinese New Year dinners and live bands, and the unforgettable Bamboo Lounge with its Polynesian drinks and flaming volcanoes.House of Chin also shows Jean Chin's essential role in the success of the Hong Kong restaurant, House of Chin, and the life of the Chin family. This lovingly crafted photo book encapsulates the essence of the Chins' sharing of Chinese flavor and culture in the fabric of the University of Illinois campus and the Champaign community. Read more