In 2001 Lincoln Mall had become somewhat rundown. The Asia Grille, owned by Charles Chin, had been a tiny part of the mall for twenty years with its own small customer base. During this time, Chin was also the co-owner and manager of The Islander, a highly successful, many times award-winning Asian restaurant in Warwick, RI. In order to finance renovations at The Islander, in 1989 Chin sold the Asia Grille to its employees. In 2001, he sold the Islander and turned his attention back to the Asia Grille.
      Chin felt that he could make the Asia Grille better and more successful, and he bought it back in 2005. He believed the demographics of the area and the nearby commercial development would support an upscale Asian Restaurant no matter what took place at the Mall. So, he hired renowned restaurant designer, Judd Brown, leased additional space, and spent $1.5 million to recreate the Asia Grille. Today, even though the enlarged and renewed Mall includes several restaurants, the Asia Grille is extremely popular and has received numerous dining awards since its rebirth including "Best Asian Restaurant in Blackstone Valley" by the readers of Rhode Island Monthly Magazine for the past two years.
      Charles Chin's commitment to an upscale Asian restaurant experience with unparalleled service, accomplished by investing in his employees, makes him different from most restaurant owners. He embraces a strong partnership with Bryant University and its business and marketing students. He not only offers them internships to make their courses exciting and relevant, he brainstorms with them to keep his restaurant exciting and relevant as well.