Owner, King Yum Restaurant

What one factor is most important to success?

Treating your customers properly, having an appreciation for them, and giving them what they want. Business is about relationships. Many of my friends have moved to Florida, but when they’re in the area, they still come to see me.

What do you look for in an employee?

I don’t get involved with that anymore, but if they are good to me than I’ll be good to them. One hand washes the other.

What’s the best way to save money?

I don’t know.

What’s the best way to spend money?

Spending it on a good product.

What’s your greatest pleasure?

Singing. I’ve sung all over the country, including Atlantic City. The mayor of Chinatown recently asked me to come sing at a fundraiser he was holding. I sang five songs for him.

What’s the first thing you do when you wake up in the morning?

I thank God that I’m able to get up out of bed.

How do you deal with stress?

I never have stress. There is no use to worrying.

What one lesson do you hope to pass on to your children?

Be good to people and work hard. It is also important to be friendly. I don’t have one enemy in the whole world. My philosophy is that a “good deal is a good deal only if everyone wins.”

How do you bounce back from adversity?

You have to accept whatever life offers.

What’s your favorite thing about Queens?

My house. At one time, there were 12 people living in it, but now they are all older and have moved on.

As one of the most renowned Chinese restaurants in all of Queens, King Yum has been a staple on Union Turnpike for over 50 years. Jimmy Eng is an owner that meets and greets his customers and takes pride in the relationships he forms through the restaurant. Now the owner of four different restaurants and markets around the city, Eng has seen many spectrums of the restaurant business.