Authenti(city) (2016)
Every restaurant claims that they have the authentic cuisine or culture in the city.
But what does authenticity really mean in a country of immigrants?
The word authenticity no longer holds its meaning in a country where the emigrants become immigrants.
In Chicago, an authentic Korean meal often means sharing an Army-base Stew. Originated from the left-over ingredients from the US Army base during the Korean War, which was made into a stew by Korean people.
Most of the authentic Greek restaurants are rated on Zagat and Yelp and serves Flaming Cheese; one of the greatest inventions in Chicago.
In Chinatown, where the Star-Spangled banners are waving from the buildings, the restaurants serve their authentic Orange Chicken.
How authentic are we? Are we just haunted by the notion of authenticity?
