The Best Secret Chinese Restaurant in Chicago

Ойын-сауық

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.
Subscribe to MUNCHIES here: bit.ly/Subscribe-to-MUNCHIES
All MUNCHIES videos release a full week early on our site: video.vice.com/en_us/channel/...
Hungry? Sign up here for the MUNCHIES Recipes newsletter.
www.vice.com/en_us/page/sign-...
Check out munchies.tv for more!
Follow MUNCHIES here:
TikTok: / munchies
Facebook: / munchies
Instagram: / munchies
Twitter: / munchies
Pinterest: / munchies
More videos from the VICE network: www. vicevideo

Пікірлер: 815

  • @ru997
    @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

    @SitaraYasmeenBrother

    Жыл бұрын

    kzread.info/dash/bejne/oWGGxMyefK_UkdI.html

  • @FactStorm

    @FactStorm

    Жыл бұрын

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

  • @careful7951

    @careful7951

    Жыл бұрын

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

  • @illesttrickshotter

    @illesttrickshotter

    Жыл бұрын

    No one cares

  • @yungcreate7555

    @yungcreate7555

    Жыл бұрын

    @@illesttrickshotter obviously you did since you commented

  • @danh3892
    @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

    @johndoe-fy1ho

    Жыл бұрын

    Happy bday!

  • @bighungry4727

    @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
    @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

    @tizzubestar

    Жыл бұрын

    I was wondering. thanks for the update.

  • @martian_4348

    @martian_4348

    Жыл бұрын

    Name of it???

  • @theorulez

    @theorulez

    Жыл бұрын

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

  • @graceryan1897
    @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

    @SitaraYasmeenBrother

    Жыл бұрын

    kzread.info/dash/bejne/oWGGxMyefK_UkdI.html

  • @FactStorm

    @FactStorm

    Жыл бұрын

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

  • @moto3463

    @moto3463

    Жыл бұрын

    That’s so awesome

  • @Sonny1065LV
    @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

    @SitaraYasmeenBrother

    Жыл бұрын

    kzread.info/dash/bejne/oWGGxMyefK_UkdI.html

  • @Allious131

    @Allious131

    Жыл бұрын

    Unlike that pink sauce lady

  • @noorimeldaelle3403
    @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

    @SitaraYasmeenBrother

    Жыл бұрын

    kzread.info/dash/bejne/oWGGxMyefK_UkdI.html

  • @noorimeldaelle3403

    @noorimeldaelle3403

    Жыл бұрын

    @@SitaraYasmeenBrother 👍

  • @FactStorm

    @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

    @noorimeldaelle3403

    Жыл бұрын

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

  • @DoctorMcHerp

    @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.

  • @Vablonsky
    @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

    @SitaraYasmeenBrother

    Жыл бұрын

    kzread.info/dash/bejne/oWGGxMyefK_UkdI.html

  • @AnalogWolf

    @AnalogWolf

    Жыл бұрын

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

  • @StreyX
    @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
    @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!

  • @ricosuave7102
    @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.

  • @grimreaperx89ify
    @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.

  • @fabiansierra7622
    @fabiansierra7622 Жыл бұрын

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

  • @SitaraYasmeenBrother

    @SitaraYasmeenBrother

    Жыл бұрын

    kzread.info/dash/bejne/oWGGxMyefK_UkdI.html

  • @davidkim5525
    @davidkim5525 Жыл бұрын

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

  • @garyhenderson6693
    @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

    @miketyler677

    Жыл бұрын

    What other places would you recommend?

  • @jeremyanderson2805

    @jeremyanderson2805

    Жыл бұрын

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

  • @Aigsup
    @Aigsup Жыл бұрын

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

  • @SitaraYasmeenBrother

    @SitaraYasmeenBrother

    Жыл бұрын

    kzread.info/dash/bejne/oWGGxMyefK_UkdI.html

  • @FactStorm

    @FactStorm

    Жыл бұрын

    It starts with us liking and sharing this video :)

  • @defaultworkouts

    @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.

  • @michaelcorleone7598
    @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.

  • @BrainDancer
    @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

    @SitaraYasmeenBrother

    Жыл бұрын

    kzread.info/dash/bejne/oWGGxMyefK_UkdI.html

  • @Bunny11344

    @Bunny11344

    Жыл бұрын

    I wish we had chefs like him in Canada

  • @meatshowstudio3159
    @meatshowstudio3159 Жыл бұрын

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

  • @SitaraYasmeenBrother

    @SitaraYasmeenBrother

    Жыл бұрын

    kzread.info/dash/bejne/oWGGxMyefK_UkdI.html

  • @dannybadillo1805

    @dannybadillo1805

    Жыл бұрын

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

  • @karmenyiu-zanika6772
    @karmenyiu-zanika6772 Жыл бұрын

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

  • @boxscorewatcher413
    @boxscorewatcher413 Жыл бұрын

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

  • @SitaraYasmeenBrother

    @SitaraYasmeenBrother

    Жыл бұрын

    kzread.info/dash/bejne/oWGGxMyefK_UkdI.html

  • @dimplesp4046

    @dimplesp4046

    Жыл бұрын

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

  • @nicoperez9984

    @nicoperez9984

    Жыл бұрын

    lol shit his spots like 20-25 minutes from me

  • @cuongtruong6043
    @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.

  • @gmaxim
    @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.

  • @mshaka5
    @mshaka5 Жыл бұрын

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

  • @SitaraYasmeenBrother

    @SitaraYasmeenBrother

    Жыл бұрын

    kzread.info/dash/bejne/oWGGxMyefK_UkdI.html

  • @winter6276

    @winter6276

    Жыл бұрын

    Same here

  • @FunGamerClips
    @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.

  • @1RichRalph
    @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
    @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!!!

  • @JabrielMcIntosh
    @JabrielMcIntosh Жыл бұрын

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

  • @canklemedkits3772
    @canklemedkits3772 Жыл бұрын

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

  • @maxwell-style4584
    @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

    @gerald4535

    Жыл бұрын

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

  • @kerbygator

    @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

    @wildonez3076

    Жыл бұрын

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

  • @guyjohnson259
    @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.

  • @qflower4982
    @qflower4982 Жыл бұрын

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

  • @johannamariasaartje
    @johannamariasaartje Жыл бұрын

    This looks way too delicious.

  • @matthoward598
    @matthoward598 Жыл бұрын

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

  • @RatedG4Genius
    @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

    @SitaraYasmeenBrother

    Жыл бұрын

    kzread.info/dash/bejne/oWGGxMyefK_UkdI.html

  • @ShyamKumar-zh1oq

    @ShyamKumar-zh1oq

    Жыл бұрын

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

  • @ceespamnow5278
    @ceespamnow5278 Жыл бұрын

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

  • @pedroportillo1585
    @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!!!

  • @fromtheworldwithlove1797
    @fromtheworldwithlove1797 Жыл бұрын

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

  • @luvu4eva16
    @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 :)

  • @jcoriaci34
    @jcoriaci34 Жыл бұрын

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

  • @Hamasakifanboy
    @Hamasakifanboy Жыл бұрын

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

  • @SeleniumGlow
    @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!

  • @tacticalbert
    @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

    @SitaraYasmeenBrother

    Жыл бұрын

    kzread.info/dash/bejne/oWGGxMyefK_UkdI.html

  • @henrytjhie10
    @henrytjhie10 Жыл бұрын

    Henry's mission is admirable. I love it

  • @RyanCoomer
    @RyanCoomer Жыл бұрын

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

  • @SitaraYasmeenBrother

    @SitaraYasmeenBrother

    Жыл бұрын

    kzread.info/dash/bejne/oWGGxMyefK_UkdI.html

  • @jahnytsunami
    @jahnytsunami Жыл бұрын

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

  • @def336tones
    @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!!

  • @csanchez5614
    @csanchez5614 Жыл бұрын

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

  • @kelvinyu339
    @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.

  • @RashekaO
    @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. 😊

  • @jakelex1177
    @jakelex1177 Жыл бұрын

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

  • @Wess2631
    @Wess2631 Жыл бұрын

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

  • @cj5643
    @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.

  • @shaylabrown6038
    @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

  • @NullAndVoided
    @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

  • @tortuga_t4rslownsteady805
    @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.

  • @VegetableFRIES
    @VegetableFRIES Жыл бұрын

    Keep grinding man! Always love supporting Asian businesses!

  • @phyllisg6217
    @phyllisg62172 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!

  • @hihikatamari
    @hihikatamari Жыл бұрын

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

  • @MrNoisee
    @MrNoisee Жыл бұрын

    This guy here is a gem of a person!

  • @Searchingtheworld7183
    @Searchingtheworld7183 Жыл бұрын

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

  • @wizzer88
    @wizzer88 Жыл бұрын

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

  • @justingoss1779
    @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!

  • @gremsta
    @gremsta Жыл бұрын

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

  • @glennevitt5250
    @glennevitt5250 Жыл бұрын

    Love These Story's ❤️

  • @Nopinotnoir
    @Nopinotnoir2 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!

  • @davidprado4067
    @davidprado4067 Жыл бұрын

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

  • @bertoman1990
    @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

    @MariusiDZ

    Жыл бұрын

    culinary school is a sham.

  • @kawaiipotatoes7888

    @kawaiipotatoes7888

    Жыл бұрын

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

  • @dannybadillo1805

    @dannybadillo1805

    Жыл бұрын

    F 🕉 is the only way From

  • @sundawg911
    @sundawg911 Жыл бұрын

    Looks yum!! hope you get to expand.

  • @giff74
    @giff74 Жыл бұрын

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

  • @MzSpen07
    @MzSpen07 Жыл бұрын

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

  • @Overyvonne
    @Overyvonne Жыл бұрын

    So talented so humble

  • @ToddAndelin
    @ToddAndelin Жыл бұрын

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

  • @montroux1635
    @montroux1635 Жыл бұрын

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

  • @bjones47059
    @bjones47059 Жыл бұрын

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

  • @JW-be8wf
    @JW-be8wf Жыл бұрын

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

  • @GeneralTsosChickenReviews
    @GeneralTsosChickenReviews Жыл бұрын

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

  • @Greeenfiire
    @Greeenfiire Жыл бұрын

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

  • @derrickskipper9227
    @derrickskipper9227 Жыл бұрын

    Awesome definitely trying When in Chicago ASAP

  • @chelton87
    @chelton87 Жыл бұрын

    I love finding new places in the city I’m goin this weekend

  • @Noneofyourbyisness
    @Noneofyourbyisness Жыл бұрын

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

  • @0111DTheProphet
    @0111DTheProphet Жыл бұрын

    I like this guy, simple and real

  • @bluzshadez
    @bluzshadez Жыл бұрын

    Very inspiring man! God bless!

  • @WilliamLairecruiter
    @WilliamLairecruiter Жыл бұрын

    Respect man. Looks really good 🎉

  • @bryanvuong931
    @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.

  • @stringlarson1247
    @stringlarson1247 Жыл бұрын

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

  • @ericlin1325
    @ericlin1325 Жыл бұрын

    Proud of you Henry!

  • @MrAllenTv773
    @MrAllenTv773 Жыл бұрын

    Just cause I’m from Chicago I have to try

  • @lastnamefirstname2390

    @lastnamefirstname2390

    Жыл бұрын

    Same. Let's go!

  • @jamoli9691
    @jamoli9691 Жыл бұрын

    Love the vibes

  • @FactStorm
    @FactStorm Жыл бұрын

    I love this guy's enthusiasm and passion. I live in Chicago and have been to 3 Little Pigs :)

  • @ezradan2588
    @ezradan2588 Жыл бұрын

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

  • @SwagSoOfficialHuh
    @SwagSoOfficialHuh Жыл бұрын

    Awesome Henry, love to see it brother!

  • @moto3463
    @moto3463 Жыл бұрын

    Food looks amazing would love to try it. Blessings from Australia

  • @pal340
    @pal340 Жыл бұрын

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

  • @nembhardandre
    @nembhardandre Жыл бұрын

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

  • @jeexbit
    @jeexbit Жыл бұрын

    This looks absolutely amazing...

  • @ricksanchez6990
    @ricksanchez6990 Жыл бұрын

    already try his food and oh boi it's freaking delicious!!!

  • @Lil.Isrealit
    @Lil.Isrealit Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for sharing this 👍

  • @animeprincess98
    @animeprincess98 Жыл бұрын

    Gonna try to pick up some stuff sometime soon. The video is making my mouth water!

  • @lifeinthefastlane2720
    @lifeinthefastlane2720 Жыл бұрын

    Looks so good! 😊

  • @sneakerhustleusa
    @sneakerhustleusa Жыл бұрын

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

Келесі