William Johnson for the Georgia Straight recently profiled Kam Wai Dim Sum (249 East Pender Street) in this Lunar New Year feature. Kam Wai’s owner, William Liu shares some touching thoughts as the business expands to open a second location outside of Chinatown:
“It’s never been about growing the business for more money. For me, it’s always been about building community,” he explains. “We’re expanding—not for profit, but to educate and share our culture.”
The opening of a second location in Hastings-Sunrise in March of this year will introduce a new product line, and Liu envisions classes at the Chinatown location to teach people about dumplings and Chinese culture.
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One of Kam Wai’s unique attributes is its deep connection to its neighbourhood, where Liu and his family have spent their lives. “I feel blessed every single day to have the opportunity to be here,” Liu says. “I grew up around these people, and they’ve been with us for over 30 years. They still come in and tell me how much they appreciate that we’re still here. That’s why we do this.”
In a city where so many small, family-owned businesses struggle, Kam Wai stands as a testament to resilience, community, and the enduring power of good food.
“We’re not just about selling food,” Liu concludes. “We’re about connecting people.”
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