Kathy Fang: From Corporate World To Culinary Star

Kathy Fang's Culinary Legacy

Chef Kathy Fang is a powerhouse in the culinary world, seamlessly blending her family's rich history with modern flair. Born into a family of renowned San Francisco chefs, Fang grew up amidst the hustle of the legendary House of Nanking, a restaurant her parents launched in 1988. This iconic dining spot, nestled on Kearney Street, has attracted celebrities like Keanu Reeves, Francis Ford Coppola, and Gary Oldman, all eager to taste its famed dishes.

House of Nanking: The Cookbook

Now, Fang is bringing her family's culinary legacy to kitchens everywhere with the new cookbook, "House of Nanking." Released just in time for Lunar New Year, this collection features over 100 recipes that span three generations of Fang family favorites. From Cantonese to Shanghainese influences, the book is a treasure trove of history, technique, and culinary wisdom.

“House of Nanking is more than just recipes; it's a journey through my family's culinary past,” shares Fang.

A Journey Back to Her Roots

Despite being surrounded by the culinary world from a young age, Fang initially ventured into the corporate realm, working with giants like Merrill Lynch and Johnson & Johnson. However, the call of the kitchen proved too strong to resist. Memories of cooking for college friends inspired her to pursue formal training at Le Cordon Bleu in LA, eventually leading her back to San Francisco and the welcoming arms of House of Nanking.

Fang: A New Chapter

Rejoining the family business wasn't without its challenges, but this time, Fang found a renewed passion and appreciation for the work. In 2009, she and her father opened a new restaurant, Fang, a harmonious blend of their culinary styles. "It's not House of Nanking 2.0," Fang explains, emphasizing the unique offerings of their joint venture.

Preserving Family History

The success of her Food Network show "Chef Dynasty: House of Fang" inspired the idea for the cookbook, allowing Fang to delve deeper into her family's history. Through interviews with her father, she uncovered stories of resilience and creativity, such as her grandmother's inventive takes on simple dishes during times of scarcity.

Fang's culinary journey is a testament to the enduring power of family traditions, innovation, and passion. Whether through her restaurants, TV appearances, or new cookbook, she's dedicated to preserving and celebrating her family's rich heritage, one dish at a time.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Looking forward, Fang hopes to inspire her daughter to follow her own path, whether it leads to the kitchen or elsewhere. For now, she's content to watch her play with a Miniverse Mini Kitchen, a gift that mirrors her mother's culinary adventures. "It's so exciting to see her interest in cooking," Fang beams.

For those eager to explore the Fang family's culinary secrets, "House of Nanking" is available on Amazon and fangkitchen.com, where fans can also snag a signed copy.