Entrepreneur Spotlight: Jason Wang of Xi’an Famous Foods
Credit: Evan Sung
This month, we’re celebrating our generation’s Asian American entrepreneurs who are shaping the future of NYC. Xi’an native Jason Wang is the CEO of Xi’an Famous Foods, a beloved NYC restaurant known for its spicy dishes.
What is your background, and the inspiration behind your business?
Credit: Simi Vijay
Xi’an native Jason Wang grew up in New York City and attended college with plans to pursue a corporate career. When his father, a veteran of Chinese kitchens, opened the first Xi'an Famous Foods in 2005 to sell dishes based on family recipes, Jason saw the potential of the business and was eager to help the restaurant grow, at one point experimenting with dishes in his dorm room while in college. Following a brief stint in the corporate world after college graduation, Jason decided to fully invest himself in Xi'an Famous Foods, learning every aspect of the business from the ground up. Since 2009, he has expanded the hole-in-the-wall chain to multiple locations in the New York City area. Through these restaurants, Jason brings a dining experience that appeals to both Chinese families who come to eat expecting authenticity, to everyday Americans looking to explore flavors.
What is the significance of being an Asian founder in your industry?
As an Asian founder, I'm in a unique position to be able to showcase my culture through my business. Being an immigrant myself, I am able to help create a bridge that helps everyone gain access to our food.
Why are you proud of the Asian (American) community?
The Asian and Asian American community have accomplished much in this country, even if we haven't heard much details about them from textbooks in this country. The first Asians in this country really helped pave the road for the rest of us, and I'm proud of all of the achievements both by past and present Asian Americans.
Credit: Evan Sung
What’s your favorite place to go in Chinatown?
I like to go to Nha Trang One for Vietnamese food, Green Garden Village for roast duck, and what's now called Supreme for Shanghai steamed soup dumplings.
What is your personal connection to Chinatown?
I grew up near Flushing Chinatown during my high school years, and even before moving to New York, we still took monthly pilgrimages to Flushing in order to stock up on groceries and supplies. To me, Chinatowns are comfortable and safe for immigrants like us, because it is where we see many that look and talk like us, and have a sense of belonging.
