Michael Lin – Culinary Connoisseur and Tour Guide

Arcadia, CA

I am passionate about learning more about Taiwanese history, culture, and language. I share my knowledge of Taiwanese food on weekend tours in the San Gabriel Valley!

lin.michael2Who are you?

I am a culinary connoisseur. I am an adventure seeker. I am a teacher of all things Taiwanese; I am a student of life. I am human; I make mistakes. I am a writer; I am a traveler. I am the example on the disembarkation card used at Customs & Immigration at Taoyuan Airport. I am Michael, and I am Taiwanese American.

What do you do?

What do I do? I am a food tour guide! I am passionate about learning more about Taiwanese history, culture, and language. I share my knowledge of Taiwanese food on weekend tours in the San Gabriel Valley! I take guests to taste some of the best Taiwanese food that LA has to offer through a company called SixTaste.

Why are you proud to be of Taiwanese heritage?

Of the 300 million people living in America, only about 1 million of us can call ourselves Taiwanese American. But for the relatively small group of us here, we have taken our roots in Taiwanese, Chinese, Japanese, and we balance the best of our diverse roots. We are renowned filmmakers, talented musicians, innovative entrepreneurs, and famous chefs. Our influence continues to grow, and that is why I am proud to be a hanchii (sweet potato) in America.

What does the future of Taiwanese America look like to you?

The future of Taiwanese America rides on our ability to make a mark on society.  A unique characteristic of Taiwanese America is our innate creativity and our ability to distinguish ourselves and stand apart from the norm. From business innovations to political endeavors to culinary conquests, and more, if Taiwanese Americans continue doing what we do best, the future of Taiwanese America will sprawl from coast to coast.

Any additional information you would like to share?

Taiwanese snacks are the best! Wah kuei (bowl-shaped rice cake), uh-ah jen (oyster omelette), and stinky tofu… no one culture has snacks like us! If you can’t tell already, I love food.

My food and travel blog is here: http://www.sofatblog.blogspot.com
Visit LA-based SixTaste at: http://sixtaste.com

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