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Drinks

Food

From Books to Cooks: Meet the Asian Nominees at the 2026 James Beard Awards

From unforgettable cookbook memoirs to expertly crafted omakase experiences, these trailblazers continue to reshape the culinary landscape. They are serving unforgettable stories on the page and bold flavors on every plate. We are beyond excited to spotlight the chefs, authors, and hospitality visionaries who earned a spot on this year’s prestigious list. 
Arts/Entertainment

Asian Comedy Fest Is Closing Out AAPI Month With Laughs

The festival brings together a diverse lineup of comedians for a night that blends laughter, community, and celebration.
Food

Finding Culture and Community at MatchaFest Chicago

What started as a centuries-old tradition rooted in Japanese tea ceremonies has found its way into our daily routines, our café orders, and our weekend cravings. And this May 16, it’s stepping into the spotlight at MatchaFest, taking over SeatGeek Stadium in the most vibrant way possible.
Community

Legacy, Leadership, and a Little Magic: Inside AACC's Biggest Lunar New Year Gala

AACC’s 43rd Annual Lunar New Year Gala drew more than 1,100 attendees for an evening of cultural celebration, community recognition, and political visibility. From heartfelt tributes and awards to a standout performance by Shin Lim, the event highlighted the strength, unity, and growing influence of Chicago’s Asian American community.
Food

Sip into Spring: How Starbucks' New Ube and Coconut Drinks Are Sweetening Chicago's Seasonal Shift

On March 3, Starbucks introduced a spring menu filled with tropical and culturally rich flavors, including ube, coconut, and a newly reimagined chai.
Food

Pandan at Viceroy Chicago: Bringing Southeast Asia flavors to America's Midwest

Nestled in the heart of Chicago’s Gold Coast, Pandan stands as a sophisticated Southeast Asian Cocktail Lounge, bringing an elevated experience to the city’s dining and nightlife culture.
Business

Whiffs of Victory: Swadesh Shrestha's Chiya Chai

Swadesh Shrestha's Chiya Chai, nestled in Chicago's Logan Square, epitomizes resilience and cultural reverence. From Nepal, Swadesh's journey intertwines her familial tea traditions with entrepreneurial ambition, culminating in a beloved chai sanctuary.
Food

Lunar Feasts! (Chicago Food Guide for the 2024 LNY Celebrations)

Feast your way into the Lunar New Year with Chicago Asian Network's ultimate dining guide!
Interviews

Sippin' Success: The First Sip Cafe Story

In the heart of Argyle's bustling business corridor, there's a cozy corner that has become the community's caffeine haven—First Sip Cafe built by the dynamic duo Gigi Hoang and Erin Hoang.
Community

Uniting Communities Through Boba: The Story of Amber Agave Café in Chicago

Amber Agave is a new boba cafe in Chicago with the mission to unite communities through culture and creativity.
Arts/Entertainment

The Dashing Debonairs of CMAA 2023 Red Party and Asian American Men’s Fashion Show

It is finally here! We now present to you the lineup for this year’s Chinese Mutual Aid Association (CMAA) Red Party and Asian American Men’s Fashion Show.
Food

QUALITY TIME: Asian Restaurants for a Classic Dinner Date

This Valentine’s Day, express your appreciation by spending some quality time with your loved one. Go to the movies, take a tour, or better yet take them to a nice place for dinner. Nothing beats the classic dinner date, so we’ve listed some Asian Restaurants you ought to visit with your loved one this Valentine’s Day:‍