Food has always been one of the strongest gateways to building community.

Long before people networked through LinkedIn or professional events, many of us built connection around restaurants, coffee shops, bakeries, tea shops, and family meals. Food has always been where conversations happen, where culture is preserved, and where communities gather.

That’s part of why it feels so meaningful seeing so many Austin Asian restaurants, food brands, and small businesses step up to support the Austin AAPI Professional Summit 2026 happening this Friday, May 29.

While the summit focuses on mentorship, networking, leadership, and creating stronger support systems for Austin’s Asian community, it’s special seeing local food businesses actively invest back into that future too. Not because they have to. Not for marketing or clout. But because they genuinely believe in building something bigger together.

The event will feature panels, workshops, mentorship opportunities, nonprofits, creatives, and community leaders discussing topics around identity, leadership, healing, advocacy, and shaping the future of Austin’s AAPI community.

Featured panelists include:
• Hannah Foy, Founder and Owner of Lau Lau
• Judge Denise Hernández, Presiding Judge County Court #6
• Andrew R. Hairston, Civil Rights Attorney and Writer
• Sara Bawany, Clinical Social Worker and Author
• Sean Hassan, Chair of the ACC Board of Trustees

Workshop facilitators and speakers will also lead conversations around AI, visibility, solidarity, and finding your voice in today’s world.

A huge appreciation goes out to the many restaurants and brands contributing food, drinks, time, and support for the event:

• The Cultured Chefs
• Katapad
• Lao’d Bar
• Red Dragon Bao
• Loro
• Bake Your Feels
• Central Matcha
• Kopi Catfe
• Junbi
• Teaspoon
• Happy Lemon
• Quality Seafood Market
• Little Miss Sourdough
• De La Calle

At the end of the day, food is never just food. It’s one of the ways communities care for each other, create gathering spaces, and help people feel seen and connected. Events like this are a reminder that Austin’s Asian food community continues to play an important role in shaping the broader future of Austin itself.

Event Information:

Austin AAPI Professional Summit 2026
Friday, May 29
1:30 PM to 5:00 PM

City of Austin Permitting & Development Center
6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive
Austin, TX 78752

Admission is free.

Register here: https://luma.com/vtgrpb21