3 Dishes, 3 Reasons
It all began at my desk in New York, fueled by fast, convenient meals that got me through 16-hour days in finance—but left me longing for something more. Packing home-cooked lunches inspired by my childhood in Taiwan became my little act of self-care. Those “三菜一湯” moments—three dishes and one soup—revealed to me how homestyle Chinese and Taiwanese dishes would translate really well in a fast casual format: healthier than your typical “slop bowl” options while being more genuine than Panda Express. From that spark grew this idea, and the 3 Reasons we believe this concept needs to live
1. Health & Wellness on the Menu
Today’s diners don’t just want a meal; they want a mindfulness practice on a plate. We see it in the rise of meal-prep services, meat alternatives, and salad or Mediterranean bowls and functional beverage bars taking over the fast-casual space. Behind these trends is a broader demand for balanced, vegetable-forward food that delivers on flavor without the guilt—and Chinese and Taiwanese home dishes are perfectly positioned to lead the next wave.
2. Appetite for Authentic Cuisine
An unmistakable hunger—especially among younger food adventurers—demands cuisine that tells a real story, not a caricature. Whereas mainstream Chinese-American fare relies on heavy, sauce-laden dishes packed with salt and sugar, Chinese and Taiwanese home cooking focuses on simple, seasonal ingredients, a vegetable-first approach, and delicate, nuanced spices.
3. Accessibility & Affordability
Good, nourishing food shouldn’t be a luxury. The most transformative concepts simplify operations, and ingredient lists so they can scale without inflating prices. By focusing on everyday proteins, seasonal produce, and pantry staples, it’s possible to deliver wholesome, home-style meals that fit every budget and delight every palate.
When health, authenticity, and accessibility intersect with the comforting formulas of Taiwanese and Chinese home cooking, you get more than a quick bite—you get “三菜一湯” made modern. That’s exactly what 3 Dishes is built to deliver: choose a base, protein, and three balanced side dishes crafted with simple, high-quality ingredients; homestyle flavors elevated for today’s palate; and a streamlined menu, so everyone can enjoy the taste of home.
Stay tuned for our opening date and get ready to pick your three.