The Woman Who Ate Chinatown: A San Francisco Odyssey

For two decades Shirley Fong-Torres has guided 20,000 visitors a year through San Francisco s Chinatown. This book shows why so many keep coming back for more. It s Chinese-American history with a bottomless appetite for quirky anecdotes, respected traditions and exquisite dumplings.

"I love Shirley Fong-Torres. Her effervescence and passion make her irresistible. If she writes a book I ll buy it, if she hosts a tour, I ll take it, if she recommends a restaurant I ll eat there." Gene Burns, KGO, San Francisco

"Shirley Fong-Torres knows San Francisco s Chinatown better than anyone She s downloaded a chunk of what she knows in this book, filled with great information and a touching account of her family history." Michael Bauer, San Francisco Chronicle

"I thought I knew San Francisco Chinatown, that is, until I met Shirley." Martin Yan, YAN CAN COOK

"Shirley Fong-Torres has a contagious love of life, people, place and food I am rapt by her stories, energized by her passion and touched by her spirit." Joey Altman, BAY CAF

"This is Shirley Fong-Torres, a very bossy woman. But if you want to do business in San Francisco Chinatown you have to deal with her. She knows everybody and everything." Comedian Martin Clune"