Content on this page requires a newer version of Adobe Flash Player.

Get Adobe Flash player

Chinese in Wisconsin

Warm and Welcome in Milwaukee

Jing Wang and Jainkang Xu at their Restaurant in Milwaukee

Jing Wang and Jiankang (Jack) Xu came to Milwaukee from Shanghai in 2000.

“We came for the education,” says Jing, who studied English at UW-Milwaukee. “We stayed because it is so friendly and open here.”

“The government encourages you to get an education,” says Jack. “There are lots of opportunities at area colleges.”

In 2007, Jack and Jing opened a restaurant in Milwaukee’s historic Third Ward. “Jing’s” Chinese Restaurant is located in a renovated building in the heart of a fashionable area of Milwaukee.

“I like that they restore old buildings here,” says Jing. “Recycling is good for the environment.”

Milwaukee and Shanghai each enjoy all four seasons, but there are many differences. “Here, people have space, it is less crowded, with many parks and green areas,” says Jack. “And Milwaukee has the beautiful lakefront.”

“Milwaukee is not so loud and busy as Shanghai,” says Jing. “It is an easy lifestyle: easy to shop, easy to find work, easy to start a business. We had help from so many people in starting our business. Many have become our friends.”

Despite the work required by their restaurant, Jack and Jing still find time for fun. Jack likes Bucks NBA basketball games. Jing takes ballet lessons once a week, and teaches Chinese to Chinese children adopted by Americans. They both attend the Buddhist temple in nearby Chicago.

“It’s a good city. We feel safe here,” says Jack.

“People here are so open and friendly,” says Jing. “It’s truly a warm and welcoming community.”