How 2 Businesses In OKC’s Asian District Are Making The Holidays Brighter

Ling’s Cakery and Szechuan Story know what it's like to struggle.

The Asian District eateries struggled during the pandemic with little to no business for months.

Now that they are back on their feet, the restaurants’ owners -- Ling Chen and Ivan Wong -- want to help others who don’t have food to enjoy during Christmas.

"People who need help. They are starving during the holidays," Szechuan Story general manager Ivan Wong said. "We just want them to feel our love and share our good food with them."

Wong and Chen met 10 years ago when Wong moved to Oklahoma. They've remained friends and weathered the pandemic together.

There were days that they were afraid they would both permanently go out of business.

However, it was through the kindness of others in the community that helped them get through the toughest of times. That's why they decided to pay it forward by giving out free meals.

“We received help from people all over the community," Chen said. "And we want to help by giving some desserts and food to the homeless."

Their goal is not only to feed those in need, but to also show others about Asian culture and cuisine. 

"Our food looks really colorful, so they're probably willing to try it," Wong said. "I doubt they won't like it."

Some of the dishes include chicken fried rice, chicken lo mein and some signature dishes like crispy spicy chicken and pork belly. 

Chen and Wong plan to drive around Oklahoma City and give out the meals over the next few days.