Leeann Chin grew up in Canton, China, and her parents inspired her interest in cooking. Her father, a grocer, introduced her to a wide array of vegetables, proteins, sauces, and spices; while at mealtime, her mother demonstrated the subtle Chinese art of creating delicious and attractive dishes balancing food textures, color, and flavor. Leeann immigrated to Minneapolis in 1956 with her family. While raising five children, Leeann ran a small sewing business out of her home. She would often prepare traditional Chinese dishes for her customers as a gesture of appreciation. Once they discovered Leeann’s hidden culinary talent and gift for entertaining, these customers encouraged her to teach them her recipes and cater local events and dinner parties. Guided by her understanding of local tastes, and a desire to share her recipes with others, Leeann opened her first restaurant here in 1980. People instantly embraced Leeann’s innovative concept and her signature Chinese cuisine.
This is part of a Gold Award Cache Series completed as part of a Gold Award project. A series of geocaches have been placed in the area recognizing noteworthy women and Girl Scout Gold Award projects.