The Best Secret Chinese Restaurant in Chicago

Henry Cai, the owner of 3 Little Pigs Chi in Chicago, has no signs, no sit-down, and takes orders over Instagram DMs for his BBQ Chinese and fried chicken.

He preps his meals in a 200-square-foot shared kitchen, yet has people traveling for hours out of state to get a taste of his menu.

Cai tells MUNCHIES how he learned to cook without any restaurant experience, how he views success, and how he plans to evolve Chinese American food.

Although Cai may attribute his business as an "accidental success," it's clear that people on social media and writing blogs will say differently. We can confirm his salt and pepper chicken sandwich, 3LP fried rice, and smoked BBQ pork aren't being sought after by chance.

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[ru]

Used to work with this guy. One of the most genuine people you'd meet who is not afraid to say it how it is. It's rare to meet someone who is so unashamedly themself. Big respect. Keep killing it, Henry, You deserve all the success and hype.

[danh]

Never forget the first time we ordered 3 Little Pigs, I off handedly mentioned that it was my birthday, Henry ran back and bought out some free extra goodies. Seriously one of the most generous dudes! We love ya Henry!

[Cherrypopissweet]

To anyone wondering, Henry got his restaurant and it'll be opening February 10th! So happy for him. Keep supporting local business everyone.

[noorimeldaelle]

WHAT?! He said he never work in a restaurant before! Wow! For someone who never work in a restaurant but he really got the skills as if he had lots of experiences. I wish him great success.

[SonnyLV]

This guy is so awesome, love when chefs are personable and want to be a part of the community and show love to their customers, wishing him all the success in the world!

[Vablonsky]

If I lived in Chicago or, frankly, anywhere in Chicagoland, I would be ordering food from this guy. Not only does the food that he's making look delicious but it strikes a chord with me. It looks Cantonese and Chinese-American all rolled into one. Plus, I'd want to support a guy with his story. When he said he's carrying on his dad's legacy with his char siu marinade, that was a powerful moment. I can only wish Chef Henry the best.

[grimreaperxify]

This man exudes everything wholesome that people have lost. You don’t get this kind of love and amazing relationship between mom and pop shops anymore. I love this content.

[jeffquach]

this man is so humble, he even said "i am very proud of what WE have done up till now". Yall gotta give the asian americans a chance, lots of special creative people out there!

[StreyX]

He's trying to run his restaurant like an old school grocer, it's a more personable interaction. I respect that.

[ricosuave]

These are the people keeping Chicago alive. Humboldt park has changed over the years but one thing I know from traveling to different places is Chicago has some of the best food. It makes me want to move back.

[graceryan]

3 little pigs chi catered my wedding and the food really is amazing. We’re saving the brown bag with the personalized note forever

[BrainDancer]

A lot of these features show how humble and close to their food the best chefs are, but for him it's on a whole different level, and it's so clear the love is there. This place is like. Perfect 5 star on Google with hundreds of reviews.

[davidkim]

This guy is literally the definition of the American Dream and then some, hope to see his success grow!!!

[michaelcorleone]

I love the whole word of mouth thing. That’s how you know people really like your food, they go out their way to find you and support what you’re doing.

[fabiansierra]

Generational cooking techniques are disappearing much respect for this man for taking the torch from his father.

[gmaxim]

I grew up in the restaurant business. I was a 3rd generation chef/owner until I retired. This gentleman is what my grandfather, father and I harp to young cooks all the time. It’s about passion, hard work. All the training and accolades will never out hustle hard work and passion.

[FunGamerClips]

He seems like such a nice, cool guy. I love that it is about the food and sharing it since he doesn't care if people pay later. He just cares that the people get their food. I really liked this story.

[garyhenderson]

This is why I LOVE CHICAGO!!!! ♥♥♥In my opinion the food scene is amazing, and then you get little gems like this that pop up. Can't wait till I return. I will definitely be trying this spot!!!

[cuongtruong]

That extra effort to know your customer is a key component to a successful business. I wish him further success in his venture.

[Aigsup]

I hope this goes viral. I want people to see this man