The Best Secret Chinese Restaurant in Chicago

Рет қаралды 1,309,749

Жыл бұрын

Henry Cai, the owner of 3 Little Pigs Chi in Chicago, has no signs, no sit-down, and takes orders over Instagram DMs for his BBQ Chinese and fried chicken.
He preps his meals in a 200-square-foot shared kitchen, yet has people traveling for hours out of state to get a taste of his menu.
Cai tells MUNCHIES how he learned to cook without any restaurant experience, how he views success, and how he plans to evolve Chinese American food.
Although Cai may attribute his business as an "accidental success," it's clear that people on social media and writing blogs will say differently. We can confirm his salt and pepper chicken sandwich, 3LP fried rice, and smoked BBQ pork aren't being sought after by chance.
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Пікірлер: 814

@ru997 Жыл бұрын

Used to work with this guy. One of the most genuine people you'd meet who is not afraid to say it how it is. It's rare to meet someone who is so unashamedly themself. Big respect. Keep killing it, Henry, You deserve all the success and hype.

@SitaraYasmeenBrother Жыл бұрын

kzfaq.info/get/bejne/pZOClc2WsbLSkaM.html

@FactStorm Жыл бұрын

Damn, that's cool. Thanks for sharing :)

@careful7951 Жыл бұрын

You can feel that about him. His genuine spirit comes through the screen. Just real with you no matter what.

@illesttrickshotter Жыл бұрын

No one cares

@yungcreate7555 Жыл бұрын

@@illesttrickshotter obviously you did since you commented

@danh3892 Жыл бұрын

Never forget the first time we ordered 3 Little Pigs, I off handedly mentioned that it was my birthday, Henry ran back and bought out some free extra goodies. Seriously one of the most generous dudes! We love ya Henry!

@johndoe-fy1ho Жыл бұрын

Happy bday!

@bighungry4727 Жыл бұрын

We have a place called little pigs in Asheville NC and it's the best in the world I tell you

@Cherrypopissweet Жыл бұрын

To anyone wondering, Henry got his restaurant and it'll be opening February 10th! So happy for him. Keep supporting local business everyone.

@tizzubestar Жыл бұрын

I was wondering. thanks for the update.

@martian_4348 Жыл бұрын

Name of it???

@theorulez Жыл бұрын

*I'm excited to find out where the new location will be. This video got me hyped.*

@Sonny1065LV Жыл бұрын

This guy is so awesome, love when chefs are personable and want to be a part of the community and show love to their customers, wishing him all the success in the world!

@SitaraYasmeenBrother Жыл бұрын

kzfaq.info/get/bejne/pZOClc2WsbLSkaM.html

@Allious131 Жыл бұрын

Unlike that pink sauce lady

@graceryan1897 Жыл бұрын

3 little pigs chi catered my wedding and the food really is amazing. We’re saving the brown bag with the personalized note forever

@SitaraYasmeenBrother Жыл бұрын

kzfaq.info/get/bejne/pZOClc2WsbLSkaM.html

@FactStorm Жыл бұрын

Wow, that's amazing! Thanks for sharing, and I am glad you've saved the bag haha

@moto3463 Жыл бұрын

That’s so awesome

@Vablonsky Жыл бұрын

If I lived in Chicago or, frankly, anywhere in Chicagoland, I would be ordering food from this guy. Not only does the food that he's making look delicious but it strikes a chord with me. It looks Cantonese and Chinese-American all rolled into one. Plus, I'd want to support a guy with his story. When he said he's carrying on his dad's legacy with his char siu marinade, that was a powerful moment. I can only wish Chef Henry the best.

@SitaraYasmeenBrother Жыл бұрын

kzfaq.info/get/bejne/pZOClc2WsbLSkaM.html

@AnalogWolf Жыл бұрын

Agreed, his desire for his father to live on though his food was really touching.

@noorimeldaelle3403 Жыл бұрын

WHAT?! He said he never work in a restaurant before! Wow! For someone who never work in a restaurant but he really got the skills as if he had lots of experiences. I wish him great success.

@SitaraYasmeenBrother Жыл бұрын

kzfaq.info/get/bejne/pZOClc2WsbLSkaM.html

@noorimeldaelle3403 Жыл бұрын

@@SitaraYasmeenBrother 👍

@FactStorm Жыл бұрын

All it takes is passion, dedication and technique. Honestly, culinary school and work experience are very important but aren't 100% a must.

@noorimeldaelle3403 Жыл бұрын

@@FactStorm yes u are so right. thank u for the encouragement.

@DoctorMcHerp Жыл бұрын

Anybody can be a great cook. You don't need restaurant experience to put out great food. Would it help with the logistics of running a business? Absolutely, but at the end of the day, if the food is great, people will pay to have it.

@StreyX Жыл бұрын

He's trying to run his restaurant like an old school grocer, it's a more personable interaction. I respect that.

@jeffquach9030 Жыл бұрын

this man is so humble, he even said "i am very proud of what WE have done up till now". Yall gotta give the asian americans a chance, lots of special creative people out there!

@fabiansierra7622 Жыл бұрын

Generational cooking techniques are disappearing much respect for this man for taking the torch from his father.

@SitaraYasmeenBrother Жыл бұрын

kzfaq.info/get/bejne/pZOClc2WsbLSkaM.html

@grimreaperx89ify Жыл бұрын

This man exudes everything wholesome that people have lost. You don’t get this kind of love and amazing relationship between mom and pop shops anymore. I love this content.

@ricosuave7102 Жыл бұрын

These are the people keeping Chicago alive. Humboldt park has changed over the years but one thing I know from traveling to different places is Chicago has some of the best food. It makes me want to move back.

@michaelcorleone7598 Жыл бұрын

I love the whole word of mouth thing. That’s how you know people really like your food, they go out their way to find you and support what you’re doing.

@davidkim5525 Жыл бұрын

This guy is literally the definition of the American Dream and then some, hope to see his success grow!!!

@FunGamerClips Жыл бұрын

He seems like such a nice, cool guy. I love that it is about the food and sharing it since he doesn't care if people pay later. He just cares that the people get their food. I really liked this story.

@BrainDancer Жыл бұрын

A lot of these features show how humble and close to their food the best chefs are, but for him it's on a whole different level, and it's so clear the love is there. This place is like. Perfect 5 star on Google with hundreds of reviews.

@SitaraYasmeenBrother Жыл бұрын

kzfaq.info/get/bejne/pZOClc2WsbLSkaM.html

@Bunny11344 Жыл бұрын

I wish we had chefs like him in Canada

@cuongtruong6043 Жыл бұрын

That extra effort to know your customer is a key component to a successful business. I wish him further success in his venture.

@garyhenderson6693 Жыл бұрын

This is why I LOVE CHICAGO!!!! ♥♥♥In my opinion the food scene is amazing, and then you get little gems like this that pop up. Can't wait till I return. I will definitely be trying this spot!!!

@miketyler677 Жыл бұрын

What other places would you recommend?

@jeremyanderson2805 Жыл бұрын

@@miketyler677 the pasta bowl has the best pasta I. The world

@meatshowstudio3159 Жыл бұрын

Living in the Midwest I gotta check him out he seems so genuine and very passionate love it

@SitaraYasmeenBrother Жыл бұрын

kzfaq.info/get/bejne/pZOClc2WsbLSkaM.html

@dannybadillo1805 Жыл бұрын

Cy and y have found zero cost in Wrong and that funny

@Aigsup Жыл бұрын

I hope this goes viral. I want people to see this man

@SitaraYasmeenBrother Жыл бұрын

kzfaq.info/get/bejne/pZOClc2WsbLSkaM.html

@FactStorm Жыл бұрын

It starts with us liking and sharing this video :)

@defaultworkouts Жыл бұрын

NOT a single business owner has EVER tried to make "healthy" Chinese food because most asian food (especially Indian) is pure trash. it will give you a potbelly in a week. that is such an untapped market. I used to eat Chinese food at a friend's house in 1996 and 1997. it was very light clean healthy. they were all slim too. just bring it to market. this is all grease.

@mshaka5 Жыл бұрын

I’m definitely pulling up when I visit Chicago. Rare energy from the chef.

@SitaraYasmeenBrother Жыл бұрын

kzfaq.info/get/bejne/pZOClc2WsbLSkaM.html

@winter6276 Жыл бұрын

Same here

@karmenyiu-zanika6772 Жыл бұрын

I am Chinese Cantonese immigrant. I have not tried your food yet but I am touched by your story.

@gmaxim Жыл бұрын

I grew up in the restaurant business. I was a 3rd generation chef/owner until I retired. This gentleman is what my grandfather, father and I harp to young cooks all the time. It’s about passion, hard work. All the training and accolades will never out hustle hard work and passion.

@guyjohnson259 Жыл бұрын

He gets it. Most important thing for him his to be able to stand behind his food and make a difference in the connections he makes every day.

@1RichRalph Жыл бұрын

NO CULINARY EXPERIENCE! biggest take away of this video, you can achieve whatever you put your mind to. super proud of this dude.💯

@epikally Жыл бұрын

His food is absolutely delicious and the char siu is honestly the best I’ve ever had. Glad to see him getting the recognition he deserves!!!

@boxscorewatcher413 Жыл бұрын

Henry got me wanting to plan a weekend trip to Chicago.

@SitaraYasmeenBrother Жыл бұрын

kzfaq.info/get/bejne/pZOClc2WsbLSkaM.html

@dimplesp4046 Жыл бұрын

I’m over hour away in Rockford and definitely making the trip 🤤

@nicoperez9984 Жыл бұрын

lol shit his spots like 20-25 minutes from me

@qflower4982 Жыл бұрын

Love his story and mom and pop spots. Much respect.

@pedroportillo1585 Жыл бұрын

This!!! We need more “hole in the wall” restaurants that serve delicious food so that we can support them! I’m from Chicago, and I’ll try this place next weekend!!!

@maxwell-style4584 Жыл бұрын

There's no place like Chicago and all the food here is amazing, we are blessed to have everything from a to z, thanks for blessing us Henry!

@gerald4535 Жыл бұрын

Agreed. People can get authentic cuisine from almost every culture.

@kerbygator Жыл бұрын

Just carry a piece when you go out to eat, and don't make eye contact with anyone and you're good to go.....

@wildonez3076 Жыл бұрын

Yes, I live in Nashville now ..I can't find any good Chinese food!!

@SeleniumGlow Жыл бұрын

"I don't want to say that I am successful, but that I'm proud of what I've done and where I'm today" 😭😭😭 This man is so wholesome!

@csanchez5614 Жыл бұрын

Just by his personality you can tell his food is delicious!!!❤

@RatedG4Genius Жыл бұрын

wishing you nothing but success, happiness, and good health Henry. keep going, one day you'll make it big and have a chain of restaurants!

@SitaraYasmeenBrother Жыл бұрын

kzfaq.info/get/bejne/pZOClc2WsbLSkaM.html

@ShyamKumar-zh1oq Жыл бұрын

Chains are the death of amazing food, let’s not wish something terrible like that

@johannamariasaartje Жыл бұрын

This looks way too delicious.

@ceespamnow5278 Жыл бұрын

This man is way too humble for what he's achieved, Amazing guy!

@tortuga_t4rslownsteady805 Жыл бұрын

His way of serving food reminds me of my grandmother in Mexico, everyone ate weather you were homeless or Rich. keep up the good work.

@bertoman1990 Жыл бұрын

It is so rare to find someone who never had to go to culinary school and still makes it to the top all from the experience cooking from their crib

@MariusiDZ Жыл бұрын

culinary school is a sham.

@kawaiipotatoes7888 Жыл бұрын

Go to food hawker place in singapre no one there go to culinary school.

@dannybadillo1805 Жыл бұрын

F 🕉 is the only way From

@giff74 Жыл бұрын

He seems like he has a really good vibe and spirit!

@JabrielMcIntosh Жыл бұрын

Big ups to this guy! I love how much love he puts into everything! AMAZING

@phyllisg6217 2 ай бұрын

Wow - we have all kinds of Chinese food in my city, but I really would love to have Henry's close to me! He's the real deal! His heart is big and generous and that makes food taste wonderful!

@canklemedkits3772 Жыл бұрын

So genuine and inspirational. Even if he goes no further, he is a tremendous success.

@matthoward598 Жыл бұрын

People like this, are why I travel far for a meal. Keep pushing Henry!

@kelvinyu339 Жыл бұрын

Best thing about the internet: if you're good people will find you, if you're not you can't hide. He's a creative craftsman and gets my respect.

@tacticalbert Жыл бұрын

Congrats on all your success so far. Stay humble my dude. I’ll always remember buying cha siu from you out of your car and look at where you are now. Awesome!

@SitaraYasmeenBrother Жыл бұрын

kzfaq.info/get/bejne/pZOClc2WsbLSkaM.html

@Hamasakifanboy Жыл бұрын

When he talks about his dad’s connection with food and legacy is so awesome, man.

@luvu4eva16 Жыл бұрын

That's awesome! He seems genuine and kind-hearted and that food looks amazing--love the message he's putting forth through his food :)

@NullAndVoided Жыл бұрын

He’s lucky he’s not in Los Angeles. (Because if he was I’d be camping outside the door!!) Absolutely dying to try some Three Pigs now

@henrytjhie10 Жыл бұрын

Henry's mission is admirable. I love it

@Searchingtheworld7183 Жыл бұрын

This Chinese restaurant is really one of the best restaurants in the Chicago city.Definitely worth going restaurant.

@MrAllenTv773 Жыл бұрын

Just cause I’m from Chicago I have to try

@lastnamefirstname2390 Жыл бұрын

Same. Let's go!

@GeneralTsosChickenReviews Жыл бұрын

Next time I am in Chicago, I will definitely try this place. Looks amazing.

@RyanCoomer Жыл бұрын

this is an AWESOME story!!!! Congrats to this gentleman! He deserves alllllll the good stuff coming his way!!!!!

@SitaraYasmeenBrother Жыл бұрын

kzfaq.info/get/bejne/pZOClc2WsbLSkaM.html

@fromtheworldwithlove1797 Жыл бұрын

I’m rooting for you man, seems like a down to earth guy. Much success to you 🤙🏽

@jakelex1177 Жыл бұрын

Love his style. The way he deals with his customers is top tier

@jahnytsunami Жыл бұрын

this is awesome. keep staying real and authentic and business will continue to boom. great stuff

@iMarcus41X Жыл бұрын

I love my City

@Wess2631 Жыл бұрын

What an inspiration... The love for food and humans is unparalled😘👍

@jcoriaci34 Жыл бұрын

I’m 100% gonna order some food from this dude. I watch a ton of amazing food videos on KZfaq, but this guy is such a good dude that I just gotta try it out & support the movement

@Greeenfiire Жыл бұрын

We’re in Chicago! Definitely paying a visit soon!

@Overyvonne Жыл бұрын

So talented so humble

@bryanvuong931 Жыл бұрын

Grabbed food from Henry during the early days, we met up in a parking lot, gotta go check out the shop, super friendly and nice.

@Nick-lf1ub Жыл бұрын

Order here all the time. It slaps.

@TheDd4477 Жыл бұрын

What a story bro, wow. All damm hard work and customer first mindset at its best! I hope someone invests a billion dollars on this man and his attitude. If I had a million dollars I would give it to this man.

@SitaraYasmeenBrother Жыл бұрын

kzfaq.info/get/bejne/pZOClc2WsbLSkaM.html

@justingoss1779 Жыл бұрын

Man your story is awesome and I know you are a humble man. Stranger from alabama hoping the best for you sir! Well done man!

@VegetableFRIES Жыл бұрын

Keep grinding man! Always love supporting Asian businesses!

@shaylabrown6038 Жыл бұрын

Thank you munchies. This content is second to none. Thank you thank you thank you. Really making me think about my life and goals. Much love from Cali xoxoxo

@stringlarson1247 Жыл бұрын

I left HP about 20 yrs ago. This gives me a reason to go back at least for a visit.

@MrNoisee Жыл бұрын

This guy here is a gem of a person!

@cj5643 Жыл бұрын

Live in suburbs, and def making a trip to try this place! And what an inspiration his story is - Wishing him nothing but success.

@KingAshleys Жыл бұрын

Wow! I'm super impressed with his customer service!

@SitaraYasmeenBrother Жыл бұрын

kzfaq.info/get/bejne/pZOClc2WsbLSkaM.html

@RashekaO Жыл бұрын

I’m happy this came up in my feed! I’ve never heard of this spot. Can’t wait to check this out this weekend. 😊

@hihikatamari Жыл бұрын

What a humble man and story. Thank you for sharing his story with us, Munchies!

@MzSpen07 Жыл бұрын

Henryyyy!!!! So happy for you!!! Congratulations!!

@glennevitt5250 Жыл бұрын

Love These Story's ❤️

@bjones47059 Жыл бұрын

Genius! So true about people wanting a personalized anything and want their name written down. Love this

@gremsta Жыл бұрын

Such a humble down to earth guy, wishing you all the success and happiness in the world, add oil!

@wizzer88 Жыл бұрын

I used to ball with him back in the day. Glad he's doing awesome. Keep it up dude.

@def336tones Жыл бұрын

Nothing but respect my guy!! Keep on grinding!! I'm an immigrant myself and know the struggle and all I can say is keep it up dude!!

@FLUFFYT3DDYB3AR Жыл бұрын

I met Henry while playing Pokémon Go. Now he’s doing an amazing work serving Chicago with his amazing food.

@davidprado4067 Жыл бұрын

Can't wait to go and try it!! Looks delicious!!!!!!!!!

@PerfectoKiss Жыл бұрын

Smart man. Secret to success is to build relationships w/your customers and keep humble.

@Nopinotnoir 2 ай бұрын

I remember watching this a year ago and it motivated me to start a pop-up Chinese restaurant in Kyoto, Japan. Big thanks!

@ToddAndelin Жыл бұрын

humble chef... what a great thing he has going

@ericlin1325 Жыл бұрын

Proud of you Henry!

@montroux1635 Жыл бұрын

Keep cooking and may your business grow. All that food looks awesome.

@0111DTheProphet Жыл бұрын

I like this guy, simple and real

@danny1023 Жыл бұрын

A long way since the college days Henry . Congrats bro!!

@sundawg911 Жыл бұрын

Looks yum!! hope you get to expand.

@nembhardandre Жыл бұрын

"Liking" this is not enough....LOVE this!!!

@Noneofyourbyisness Жыл бұрын

Ayee I’m proud of your Henry! Glad to see Chicago on the map!

@JW-be8wf Жыл бұрын

People like Henry are what makes America great! We are forever a better nation because of Henry and his family.

@pal340 Жыл бұрын

His story is so dope!!! This is how you get it from the mud! The chef life truly chose him.

@sneakerhustleusa Жыл бұрын

I love Henry! Most humble chef man I know! Guy is a 🐐

@bluzshadez Жыл бұрын

Very inspiring man! God bless!

@hollywoodharriet13 Жыл бұрын

If I lived in Chicago I would definitely be eating 3 Little Pigs, so I will have to wait until my next visit there. I will not forget!

@ezradan2588 Жыл бұрын

this is so awesome. this guys reminds me of why i love cooking, and got into this industry.

@brianbeans2190 Жыл бұрын

Seeing this video profile of this Chicago chef is the reason I'm subscribing to your KZfaq channel. Keep up the good work. This is why I come to KZfaq. Excellent review and profile! Will definitely seek him out when I'm back in the Chi.