Beloved family restaurant in Chinatown closing after decades

Shanghai Garden Restaurant, a staple in Seattle’s Chinatown-International District since 1990, is permanently closing its doors at the end of May.

Christine Su, co-owner of Shanghai Garden, attributed the decision to several challenges common among small businesses in Seattle, including rising food and labor costs. But she also stated that declining foot traffic, influenced in part by customer concerns about crime in the area, hurt the restaurant.

“Shanghai Garden has been more than just a restaurant, it has been a gathering place, a tradition for some, and a labor of love for our family and staff,” the restaurant posted on Facebook. “We are incredibly proud of the memories we’ve made here with you all and the countless meals shared at our tables.”

Shanghai Garden built on health–conscious dishes

According to The Seattle Times, Shanghai Garden was originally opened by Su’s parents, Helen and Hua Te Su, just two blocks from its current location. Hua, who began cooking at age 12, built the restaurant’s reputation on dishes made with fresh, health-conscious ingredients. The family later expanded to a second location in Issaquah in 1996, which operated for 10 years, according to the media outlet.

In 2005, the family faced a personal loss when Helen passed away from cancer. Christine, along with her siblings Kathy Su-Tsow, Betty, and Dan, stepped in to continue their parents’ legacy. 

The Seattle Times stated that Christine and Kathy have been managing the restaurant together since the COVID-19 pandemic.

“To all our loyal customers, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Your support, your stories, and your smiles have meant the world to us,” the restaurant said in a social media post.

Follow @http://twitter.com/Mynorthwest