Photos by: Russ Bowen-Youngblood
A TikTok Chef Cooks Up Sizzling Success
There’s more to Jon Kung than meets the eye — and the taste buds
By Chris Azzopardi
Ifyou’re one of the 1.7 million people following nonbinary chef Jon Kung on TikTok (@jonkung), you may have watched their food tutorials and felt as hungry as you did thirsty. Hungry because, recently, they made spicy beef dumplings that look mouthwateringly great, a recipe included in their new book, “Kung Food: Chinese American Recipes from a Third-Culture Kitchen: A Cookbook.” Thirsty because they sometimes enjoy their dumplings in just a swimsuit, like they have in the past on a paddle board going down the Detroit River.
In the comments on a recent video of Kung preparing soba noodles without a shirt, one fan, who was clearly there for more than the food, wrote, “I’ve watched this 4x in a row and still couldn’t tell you any of the ingredients.” (Go back far enough in their feed and you’ll note that a simple gay white tank gets a lot of screen time.)
No surprise then that “TikTok zaddy” is how queer outlet INTO refers to Kung, who is 40 and describes themself as a “Farmer Jack-era Detroiter.” But that label, while inarguably true (they really did love that tank for a while), is the main course, but definitely not the full meal.
In a way you wouldn’t expect, their career in food started with a prospective career in theater, which they studied at Eastern Michigan University (EMU). TikTok is theater, of course.
“If you look at some of the most popular creators, it doesn’t even matter what genre — could be food, could be engineering,
could be medical, could be law — it’s just a matter of being effective communicators,” they say about studying theater. “It helps you become effective as a communicator, and that’s why they do so well in this medium.”
Kung has undoubtedly done well — their impressive presence on social media, which became their full-fledged career focus just a few years ago, in 2020, eventually landed them a book deal through Clarkson Potter, a subsidiary of major publishing company Penguin Random House. In fact, you might go as far as saying that TikTok more than worked for them, and in a relatively short period. “People who don’t really understand the art think performance is lying when really it’s the complete opposite,” they say. “It’s the expression of a truth at any given moment in time.”
Kung’s own truth is conveyed with dry humor and easy-to-love authenticity — the keys to success these days — that has allowed them to carve out a space in the professional chef world, with a side of baked-in queerness that goes much deeper than queer desire. For example, in the acknowledgments portion of the book, Kung raises the bar for engagement proposals, writing to their boyfriend-of-nine-years Jonathon: “Would you perhaps consider marrying me?” (Jonathon said yes.)
But long before the outro, there is richer context on Kung’s journey in the book’s introduction, which encompasses the answer to what “third-world culture” cooking means to them. To understand how who they are influences what they cook, this is a good place to start.
“As a third-culture kid, I grew up neither fully here nor there — I didn’t feel completely accepted as American or Chinese,” they write. “Personally, I see ‘third culture’ as being something that is inclusive and full of possibility. It has had a huge influence on art, literature, fashion and design, and I would argue that it can also apply to food.”
Featuring recipes for dishes like Jerk Chow Mein, Buffalo Chicken Rangoons, and Hong Kong Chicken and Waffles, Kung’s debut cookbook is a self-proclaimed “celebration of diversity,” one that helped affirm their diasporic identity as it spotlights their roots as a Chinese American who was born in Los Angeles and raised in Hong Kong and Toronto. They describe their culinary style as “American Chinese,” or “Third-Culture Chinese.”
“While I might not be able to express all the intricacies of my identity and culture in words, I can do my best to cook you a dish that captures my story,” Kung writes in the book.
“When I found out we had ‘Kung Food’ in as a project with Potter, I just knew I absolutely had to work on it,” says Felix Cruz, a publicist at Clarkson Potter, who says he was struck by that passage.
“Jon’s IG and TikTok videos were a big part of my pandemic routine — their voice was so soothing and the recipes they made, told with such insightful history and context, really strengthened my belief that cooking food is a powerful and intentional method for navigating uncertain times,” he adds.
The book, however, wasn’t ever really a part of Kung’s master plan, which, long before becoming a TikTok influencer and studying theater at EMU, also involved law school. In 2011, Kung got their law degree from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law, but after they started practicing on real cases, they realized it wasn’t for them and changed course. They returned to their creative roots, posting 60-second cooking lessons on TikTok in 2020, a quick pivot from Kung’s pandemicspoiled plan to open a small restaurant. People
were already baking sourdough at home while sheltering in place, and now they could join Kung in making some of their TikTok specialties: Lion’s Head Meatballs, a variety of tomato sandwiches and dishes based on anime characters.
“Sometimes we need something beyond language,” Cruz says. “Food can be an ultimate saving grace when it comes to expressing and articulating who I am, in all the eras of my life, in those many moments when words fail. Jon’s recipes formulate an architecture of belonging for so many of us during and beyond the pandemic; in finding themself they help us seek methods for finding our way too.”
Cruz wasn’t the only one connecting with Kung during the pandemic. In the early days of their TikTok launch, Kung’s followers grew exponentially, with surges that ranged from 10,000 to 30,000 followers, sometimes in a single day. “It was wild,” they say. “There was such a huge, crazy dopamine rush of just watching these numbers go up.”
“I started getting brand deals and major animebased companies who had me on retainer for content,” Kung adds. “I realized within a few weeks I made more than I had made in an entire year both as a small business owner by myself and as a person who cooked on the line.”
Kung initially worked at Detroit restaurants including Standby and the now-closed Gold Cash Gold and ran Kung Food Market Studio, a private dining space in Eastern Market. Their experience as a self-taught chef at pop-ups in the city was a “complete immersion, trial-by-fire thing,” which gave them a leg up on socials. It all snowballed into something so successful even Kung can’t completely wrap their head around it.
“It hasn’t really felt real, I guess, for a really long time,” they say. “Considering the fact that my time in Detroit was so... it felt really rooted. And then just transferring it to an online presence and then having everything move and progress and change so fast. I mean, I’m still trying to come to terms with it.”
Recently, Kung took the book on tour, stopping in cities like Chicago, San Francisco and New York, before returning home to Michigan. More dates will be announced for next year, and Kung has their eyes on promo stops in Provincetown, Boston and Philadelphia.
It seems unlikely they’ll return to their original, preTikTok plan to open their own restaurant in Detroit — at least not for a while. “To open something now with uncertainty and high prices just doesn’t seem smart,” they say. Not to mention, when it comes to possibly returning to the service industry they once were a part of, “I can’t even sit through an episode of ‘The Bear.’”
“I would not mind just a little bit of coasting for a while,” they say. “With everything that I’ve done and have explored, I’m totally fine with just having one job, which is making content for a little while before exploring other avenues.”
Chris Azzopardi is the Editorial Director of Pride Source Media Group and Q Syndicate, the national LGBTQ+ wire service. He has interviewed a multitude of superstars, including Cher, Meryl Streep, Mariah Carey and Beyoncé. His work has also appeared in The New York Times, Vanity Fair, GQ and Billboard. Reach him via Twitter @ chrisazzopardi.
Photos by: Russ Bowen-Youngblood
A Reflection on Unity and Inclusivity
Edited by Mikkel Hyldebrandt
As we gear up to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day, it’s more than just a day off or a break from the usual routine. It’s a time to reflect, honor, and continue the legacy of a remarkable man who played a pivotal role in shaping the civil rights movement in the United States.
Atlanta holds a unique place in the heart of MLK Day celebrations. After all, it’s the birthplace of the iconic civil rights leader himself. The significance of this day resonates deeply in the very streets where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. took his first steps and spoke his first words. As we stroll through the historic neighborhoods and stand on the grounds where history was made, it’s impossible not to feel a profound connection to the struggles and triumphs that define the civil rights movement.
The impact of MLK Day goes beyond mere commemoration; it’s a call to action, a reminder that the fight for justice and equality is ongoing. In a city known for its vibrant diversity, MLK Day takes on an even more profound meaning. It’s a day when Atlantans from all walks of life come together to celebrate the diversity that makes our city so unique.
Now, let’s talk about the intersectionality of MLK Day with the LGBTQ community. It’s a beautiful fusion of two movements that share a common thread – the fight against discrimination and the pursuit of a more inclusive society.
Dr. King’s dream of a nation where individuals are judged not by the color of their skin but by the content of their character aligns seamlessly with the LGBTQ community’s quest for acceptance and equality. MLK Day serves as a poignant reminder that the struggles for civil rights and LGBTQ rights are interconnected, woven into the fabric of a broader fight for justice.
Atlanta Pride, an organization deeply rooted in the city’s LGBTQ community, recognizes and celebrates the shared values of these movements. MLK Day becomes a moment to acknowledge the progress made and the road that still lies ahead in the ongoing fight for equality, acceptance, and understanding.
In the spirit of unity, events and activities across the city bring people together, fostering conversations that bridge gaps and build connections. The LGBTQ community actively participates in these celebrations, contributing to the rich tapestry of diversity that defines Atlanta.
The celebration of MLK Day in Atlanta isn’t just about looking back; it’s about looking forward with hope and determination. It’s about acknowledging the progress made while recognizing the work that remains. As we remember Dr. King’s words and actions, we are inspired to continue the pursuit of justice, not just for one community, but for all.
So, as you enjoy the festivities and events lined up for MLK Day, take a moment to reflect on the significance of this day in Atlanta. It’s a day that brings us together, reminding us that we are all part of a larger story of resilience, courage, and the unwavering pursuit of a better, more inclusive future.
In the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” Let’s celebrate MLK Day with love, unity, and a commitment to building a more inclusive Atlanta for all.
Here are some significant events that commemorate and celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
2024 MLK Days of Service
Date: January 11-15
What: Throughout January, 2024, thousands of Atlantans will come alive and unite in service to celebrate the King Holiday. Where: Throughout Atlanta Find a project that you want to join at handsonatlanta.org
Martin Luther King Jr. Day 2024
Date: Monday, January 15, 10 am – 4 pm
Where: Atlanta History Center
What: Guests will have the opportunity to participate in civil rights-themed trivia, crafts, kids activities, panel discussions, and more. A detailed schedule of activities will be emailed to registrants closer to the date.
Sign up at atlantahistorycenter.com
MLK Day 5k - Drum Run
Date: January 15, 8 am – 12 pm
Where: First Baptist Church of Doraville
What: This 5K walk/run will take place entirely on New Peachtree Road. The FLAT & FAST out & back USATF certified race course and Peachtree Road Race qualifier will have a 3.1 mile drumline all along the race course.
Sign up at mlkday5k.com
Atlanta Hawks vs. San Antonio Spurs - MLK Day Game presented by Chase
Date: January 15, 3:30-7:30 pm
Where: State Farm Arena
What: Be a part of our annual ‘MLK Day Game presented by Chase’ as we continue celebrating the legacy, influence, and life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Get your tickets at ticketmaster.com
Winter Fun in Florida’s Sun
Your Ft. Lauderdale/Wilton Manors Holiday By Bill Malcolm*
Photos courtesy of Bill Malcolm, Visit Lauderdale, Wilton River Suites
Consider a winter getaway to Fort Lauderdale and Wilton Manors (The Island City, which Fort Lauderdale, Florida, surrounds). The weather is usually perfect: highs in the low 80s and rainfree. There is so much to do; if you stay in Wilton Manors, you will not need a car.
WHAT TO DO
Besides hanging out at Sebastian Beach, there is much other stuff to do.
Hike the boardwalk and enjoy the red mangrove swamp in Colohatchee Park Wilton Manors. I took the electric shuttle there for just $2, known as the Circuit Rideshare service. Download the app and book your ride. It’s like a UBER, but you share a ride using a cute multi-passenger vehicle. The drivers work for tips, so be sure to give them one—details at ridecircuit.com/ fortlauderdale.
Join the Frontrunners for a walk or run. They meet on Sundays at 5 p.m. at the Pride Center in Equality Park in Wilton Manors (and also on Wednesdays in Holiday Park and Saturday mornings)—details at FRWFL.org. Pick up some sexy underwear at the Pride Factory clothing store (2282 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors).
See the shark exhibit at the Frost Science Museum. Walk along the Riverwalk in downtown Ft. Lauderdale.
The new Seminole Hardrock Hotel and Casino in nearby Hollywood features live sports betting and games such as craps and roulette. It features restaurants and a guitar-shaped hotel. The Wilton Manors Library has shared computers and is perfect for teleworkers working out of their Wilton Manors office. Download the Seek App and get to know the flora and fauna. Green iguanas, as are the colorful ducks that walk around the neighborhoods, are a startling sight. The various kinds of palms are attractive. With a subtropical climate, you will find flowers not seen elsewhere in the U.S.
Take the Brightline Train to Miami. The superfast first gets you there in just 30 minutes. You can even buy a snack on board. The train also goes north to Orlando Airport. There is nothing else like it in the U.S.
NIGHTLIFE
Most bars are close to each other on Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors. Hunters is my first stop. There is something going on every night. (Yes, the same owner as the one in Palm Springs.) The LIT was just voted the best bar for lesbians. You will find them at 2440 Wilton Drive. You will find the leather crowd at the Eagle in Wilton Manors. Georgie’s’ Alibi and the Monkey Bar (of Ptown fame) at 2232 is a lot of fun. Johnson’s has dancers and a happy hour from 5 – 8 p.m. The new NoManors Bar is a lot of fun. There must be fifteen bars within steps of each
other on both sides of Wilton Manors Drive. Check them out while in town.
WHERE AND WHAT TO EAT
Enjoy a burger at Rosie’s Bar and Grill (2449 Wilton Drive) on Wilton Drive. The popular hangout is necessary. Pub on the Drive also has excellent food and brunch on Saturdays and Sundays. You will find them at 2271 Wilton Manor Drive.
Since I travel alone, I prefer getting food at grocery stores. The Publix Market (Florida’s iconic grocery store) can be found at 2633 N. Dixie Highway. Try the hot food bar, which features Southern classics. Pick up some Jaymar brand super sweet Florida strawberries for breakfast or a snack. Get cash at their Presto! ATM, which features no surcharge for many users with accounts at a credit union. The new Sprouts Market is another option. They, too, have made-to-order sandwiches and other items.
WHERE TO STAY
The new Wilton River Suites is right on the river and walkable to the bars in Wilton Manors. Check out a bike or kayak during your stay. You get your own apartment, some of which have two bathrooms. They also feature an onsite gym and pool. Book your room at wiltonsuites.com. Men will like the even closer Calypso Inn, which features a small pool. The tropical outdoor gardens are impressive and are just two blocks from the bars in Wilton Manors. Tell the owner Wes, I sent you.
I have also stayed at the Home2Suites in the Flagler Arts Village District. The newer hotel is handy to the Riverwalk and downtown.
I took Southwest without incident to and from FLL. Then you can UBER your way to the hotel or take the #1 Bus to the #50 Bus to get to Wilton Manors. Details at Broward County Transit. The Tri Rail also runs from the airport to the city. Tri Rail also runs from Miami International as well. Skip the traffic and parking headaches and UBER, or take transit. And if you stay in Wilton Manors, you can walk everywhere.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
OUT SFL carries my column, which is a newspaper and a magazine. Please pick up a copy of either or find them at OUTSFL.com. HOTSpots! Florida is another gay tabloid and also a reliable source of current goings on. You can read them online at HOTSpotsMagazine. com.
The monthly OutClique Magazine also has many ideas of what to do while in town. Special recognition goes to Richard Gray for his travel tips. Richard is the Senior Vice President of Inclusion and Accessibility for Visit
Lauderdale, who single-handedly transformed Fort Lauderdale into the most welcoming LGBTQ+ city on the planet.
“Everyone Under the Sun” is their motto. Fort Lauderdale wrote the book on how to promote your city. You owe yourself a visit.
*LGBTQ publications throughout North America carry Bill Malcolm’s syndicated LGBTQ travel country.
Photos by: Russ Bowen-Youngblood
BARS & CLUBS
MIDTOWN
BLAKE’S ON THE PARK blakesontheparkatlanta.com 227 10th St NE
BULLDOGS 893 Peachtree St NE
FRIENDS NEIGHBORHOOD BAR friendsonponce-atl.com 736 Ponce De Leon Ave NE
MY SISTER’S ROOM mysistersroom.com 66 12th St NE
X MIDTOWN xmidtown.com 990 Piedmont Ave NE
THE T modeltatlanta.com 465 Boulevard SE
CHESHIRE
HERETIC hereticatlanta.com 2069 Cheshire Bridge Road
BJ ROOSTERS bjroosters.com 2043 Cheshire Bridge Road NE
WESTSIDE
MARQUETTE 868 Joseph E. Boone Blvd NW
840ATL 840 Joseph E. Boone Blvd NW
ANSLEY
ATLANTA EAGLE 1492 Piedmont Ave NE
FELIX’S 1510 Piedmont Ave NE
THE HIDEAWAY 1544 Piedmont Ave NE
MIXX mixxatlanta.com 1492 Piedmont Ave NE
OSCAR’S oscarsatlanta.com 1510 Piedmont Ave NE
WOOFS woofsatlanta.com 494 Plasters Ave NE
EAST ATLANTA, GRANT PARK & EDGEWOOD
MARY’S marysatlanta.com 1287 Glenwood Ave SE
SISTER LOUISA’S CHURCH sisterlouisaschurch. com 466 Edgewood Ave SE DINING MIDTOWN
CASA ALMENARA 991 Piedmont Ave NE casa-almenara.com
HENRY’S henrysatl.com
132 10th St NE
LA HACIENDA lahaciendamidtown. com 900 Monroe Dr NE
TUK TUK THAI FOOD LOFT TUKTUKATL.COM 1745 Peachtree Rd NW
DEKALB
LIPS ATLANTA atldragshow.com 3011 Buford Hwy NE
RETAIL
MIDTOWN
BARKING LEATHER AFTER DARK barkingleather.com 1510 Piedmont Ave NE
CHESHIRE
SOUTHERN NIGHTS VIDEO 2205 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE
ANSLEY
BOY NEXT DOOR MENSWEAR boynextdoormenswear.com 1000 Piedmont Ave NE, Ste A
GCB & PLEASURES brushstrokesatlanta. com 1510-D Piedmont Ave. NE FITNESS
MIDTOWN
URBAN BODY FIT-
NESS urbanbody tness. com
500 Amsterdam Ave N
CHESHIRE GRAVITEE FITNESS graviteeatl.com 2201 Faulkner Rd NE
SPAS/BATHS
ADULT
FLEX SPA exspas.com 76 4th St NW
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You know, it’s cold outside when you go outside and it’s cold.
Does your life insurance know you pick up baggies off the floor.
When the love is real the farts donʼt matter.
People would rather top a twink than to stop and think.
I need a 100K and a hug right now. Please don’t hug me without the money.
Oh god, why is everyone circling back?!!
Being gay is packing 20 outfits for a 3-day trip.
