From Family Roots to Culinary Heights: The Story of Lin & Daughters
Discover Lin & Daughters, a West Village restaurant by Becky Lin, serving handmade dumplings, noodles, and comfort food inspired by family recipes and creative twists
At Lin & Daughters, every dish tells a story. From handmade dumplings inspired by founder Becky Lin’s father’s recipes to playful twists like cheesy scallion pancakes, this West Village gem blends tradition and innovation. The restaurant has become a must-visit spot for lovers of Chinese comfort food in New York City, offering dishes that are both nostalgic and inventive.
A Legacy Born in the Kitchen
For Becky Lin, food has always been a way to connect with others. Her journey began in her teenage years, helping her family run their first restaurant on Long Island. “My dad was a chef, and when we moved from China, it became a family operation,” she recalls. “Working alongside him showed me the joy of serving people and the power of food to bring comfort.”
Though she explored other ventures, including running a children’s language school, Becky’s passion for the restaurant industry never waned. When the pandemic shuttered her school, she saw an opportunity. “The pandemic was a silver lining,” she reflects. “It pushed me out of my comfort zone and gave me the chance to build something I’d been dreaming of—a restaurant that celebrates my family’s recipes and my own creative twists.”
Honoring Family Through Food
Lin & Daughters’ menu is a heartfelt collection of dishes inspired by Becky’s family and her personal experiences. Each item tells a story:
Baba Lin’s Pork and Chive Dumplings: A classic recipe passed down from Becky’s father, these dumplings are handmade and packed with flavor, embodying the heart of the restaurant.
Beef Dumplings: A fan favorite at Lin & Daughters, these dumplings are packed with bold flavors and have even been featured on Infatuation.
Grandma’s Peanut Noodles: Creamy, nutty, and deeply nostalgic, this dish takes inspiration from Becky’s childhood memories of meals with her grandmother.
Wonton Soup: Made using Becky’s mom’s recipe, this dish is a comforting bowl of delicate wontons in a flavorful broth, perfect for warming the soul.
Daughter’s Butter Garlic Udon: Named after Becky’s youngest daughter, this dish features tender udon noodles coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, offering a satisfying and flavorful bite.
Cheesy Scallion Pancakes: A playful twist on tradition, this pancake is stuffed with cream cheese and topped with a crispy, cheesy layer, inspired by Becky’s older daughter.
These dishes reflect a balance of tradition and creativity, offering both familiar comfort and delightful surprises.
Creating Comfort in the West Village
Since opening in 2023, Lin & Daughters has quickly become a standout in New York City’s West Village. The restaurant’s focus on quality and comfort has drawn regulars who return for handmade dumplings, noodles, and heartwarming soups.
“Comfort is at the core of everything we do,” Becky says. “Food is a love language in my family, and I want every bite to bring joy and warmth.”
The restaurant balances tradition and modern influences, incorporating Becky’s personal touches. “It’s not strictly traditional Chinese food—it’s my story on a plate,” she explains.
Looking Ahead
As Lin & Daughters approaches its second anniversary, Becky’s creativity continues to thrive. “I’m always experimenting with new recipes,” she shares. “I want to keep surprising our customers while staying true to the comforting flavors they love.”
Beyond the food, Becky hopes the restaurant will remain a welcoming space for the community. “It’s not just about the dishes—it’s about the connections we create.”