Supporting Local AAPI Business: FishWives
Fishwives
88 N. Fair Oaks Avenue, Pasadena (626) 219-6199
www.fishwives.com
Written by Truc Moore
Fishwives is an incredible, Asian owned, small business by Tim Tang serving up fantastic New England style seafood in Old Town Pasadena. It is known for classic seafood dishes like amazing lobster rolls and fish and chips, and reimagined classics like fried oyster deviled eggs! Fishwives opened in 2017 and has remained successful when other seafood restaurants in Pasadena like McCormick & Schmick's had to close their doors. Aside from operating a successful restaurant, Tim is giving back to the community by hiring justice impacted individuals and former substance abusers to work in his restaurant and learn the restaurant business. He's a big believer in giving people a second chance who want it!
What was Tim's inspiration for opening Fishwives? Grandma! Tim, who grew up in San Gabriel Valley, had heard many stories about how grandma---a fish wife---worked so hard selling fish at the markets in Taiwan to make money to support her family. That, combined with his love for New England seafood at a young age, set his desire to open a seafood restaurant one day. While he was conflicted in college to follow the science path many Asians choose to please their families, Tim graduated from college with a degree in Chemistry but went straight into working at restaurants. He worked in the kitchen, and was also a busboy, waiter, short order cook and took roles in management, always working his way up and learning the business of running a successful restaurant. Along the way, he made great contacts with suppliers and vendors who now provide his super fresh seafood.
It was Tim's hard work that kept Fishwives afloat during the pandemic. Fishwives packed fresh shucked oysters for takeout to their loyal customers. The restaurant had built such a reputation for fresh seafood and a loyal following of locals, that when restaurants were ordered closed for a time during the pandemic, local customers continued to look to Fishwives to meet their demands for fresh oysters.
If you haven’t been to Fishwives, or it's been some time since you sank your teeth into a buttery New England lobster roll, it's time to head on over! Fishwives is open for lunch and dinner six days a week, and is closed on Mondays. Fishwives does take reservations.
In every issue, we will highlight local businesses that are not only providing great products and services, but also contribute to the community. Please let us know of a business that is worthy to be highlighted, so that we can rally our support behind them.
