Wing On Wo & Co. is the oldest operating store in Chinatown which was first opened by Walter Eng in 1890. Since1925, Wing On Wo & Co. has been selling high-quality porcelain and is now run by the family’s fifth generation owner, Mei Lum.

The store is no longer just a place to go for unique porcelain and ceramic pieces, though. Mei Lum and her team has transformed it into a place for people to gather and explore their roots and identities. There are film screenings about the Chinese diaspora, art workshops and discussions around gentrification of the neighborhood and affordable housing.

I love that the store is keeping its roots while transforming itself into a cultural bastion, hosting important conversations and projects for the community. Also, the storefront is really beautiful.