Comptroller Mendoza highlights another Chicago neighborhood, Asia on Argyle, in uplifting new video

Comptroller Susana Mendoza – with Rep. Hoan Huynh (D-Chicago) and a surprise visit from retired Western Illinois farmer Dick Bigger Jr. – tour businesses along the Asia on Argyle corridor, capturing the fun for everyone to enjoy. 

“With this video, I really wanted to take potential visitors on a tour of the area, showcasing all the community has to offer,” said Comptroller Mendoza. “Chicago is so rich in cultures, ethnicities and traditions, that I want to continue to show everyone what they are missing.” 

"Small businesses are the livelihood of our communities," said Rep. Huynh. "Not only do these businesses drive our economies—creating jobs, and adding vibrancy and diversity to our neighborhoods—but they have also provided the opportunity for so many Southeast Asian families to establish roots for future generations to thrive here." 

This video is the second in a series Comptroller Mendoza is creating this year focusing on ethnic business enclaves hurting from immigration crackdowns or other economic pressures, the first being Little Village. 

“Argyle Park” was a suburb developed in the 1880s by a Chicago alderman who named the area for his Scottish ancestors. 

After the 1975 Fall of Saigon, Southeast Asian entrepreneurs and refugees built up the area, opening restaurants and other businesses. Paul Tsang has been offering his legendary Peking Duck at Hon Kee BBQ since 1981. 

Asia on Argyle has struggled in recent years and the traditional pagoda over the Argyle “L” stop is missing as the CTA modernizes the station. But a resurgence is underway with 50 diverse businesses welcoming customers. Boosting tourism to Argyle Street brings in more sales taxes for the city of Chicago and the state of Illinois, which helps Comptroller Mendoza pay the state’s bills. 

The Argyle Street area is on the National Register of Historic Places and is located at the intersection of West Argyle Street and North Broadway. 

Comptroller Mendoza and friends visited several businesses along the corridor including Fat Milk, Pho Loan, La Patisserie P, Qideas, Hon Kee Restaurant, Hoa My Market, Nhà Hàng Vietnam and Miss Saigon. 

“These neighborhoods represent the heart and soul of the diversity that makes up our great city and state,” said Comptroller Mendoza. “I hope this video convinces everyone to visit Asia on Argyle and try everything from Chinese herbal remedies to Vietnamese coffee. See you on Argyle!” 

May is Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. 

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