Chef Uno is the owner of Chino Chinatown in Trinity Groves. She was on “ABC’s The Taste” competing on Anthony Bourdain’s team and a regular on EyeOpener TV sharing her unique recipes. She started her culinary career when she founded Foodie Couture, a cooking entertainment and catering company.
Ultimately Uno’s food journey was inspired by her mother who catered to make ends meet. Uno observed the art of creating every dish, along with the happiness that resulted from each bite. The kitchen is where Uno spent most of her childhood, learning and understanding Southeastern Asia ingredients while cooking with her mom. Chino Chinatown’s menu is a result of Chef Uno’s passion for cooking and her Latin twist on classic Asian dishes.
Talent runs deep in this family, too. Join us at Fashion for a Passion as Chef Uno’s daughter Emma joins our performer lineup with her group The Sun and Stars!
ENTER FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN AN APPETIZER OR DESSERT AT CHINO CHINATOWN. Every $25 you donate to ATG through our North Texas Giving Day link gets you an entry to win an appetizer or dessert at Chino Chinatown. Just email us your confirmation to fundraising@againstthegrainproductions.com by 5 pm. We’ll announce our winner by 6 pm – then redeem your free app or dessert at Chino Chinatown that day until 10 pm!
Full name:
Uno Immanivong
Hometown:
Dallas, Texas
Current City:
Dallas, Texas
Ethnicity:
Laotian American
What does it mean to you to “Go Against The Grain?”
“To me ‘Going Against The Grain’ is leaving a 16-year banking career to pursue my passion for cooking, serving others and opening a restaurant in an undeveloped area of West Dallas.”
What made you decide to pursue a career in this industry?
“A chain of events and mentors encouraged me to follow my dreams of being a chef and restauranteur. After the birth of my daughter, I wanted to be an inspiration and teach her that anything is possible if you’re willing to work for it.”
What have been some of the challenges you faced/lessons you learned as an Asian American in this field?
“The food industry is dominated by many talented male chefs as well as folks who have been in the restaurant business for decades. It was difficult to introduce some of my dishes to the public since I hadn’t cooked in a professional kitchen previously. I had to prove myself one dish at a time.”
What do you feel is your biggest accomplishment, and why?
“My biggest accomplishment is my daughter Emma. She is the reason I do what I do, she encourages me to be the best version of me. ”
What’s up next?
“Next up is opening more eateries and inspiring others to follow their dreams. It’s never too late to reinvent yourself.”
Quote to live by:
“Luck is when preparation meets opportunity. ”
Sign (Eastern Animal Sign & Western Zodiac):
“Snake & Cancer.”
Passionate about:
“Ending child hunger.”
Favorite food:
“Sushi & yakatori.”
Can’t live without:
“Love.”
I Go Against The Grain #beCAUSE:
“One voice can become many.”
