After 53 years, the Jade Palace restaurant, one of Newark’s oldest dining establishments, is sadly closing its doors. The decision to shut down comes following the loss of Edwin Yee Wing Lee, the family’s patriarch, and subsequent discussions to cease operations. This closure signifies the end of an era for the cherished Chinese diner. On December 21, Jade Palace, which has served as a culinary anchor for both locals and notable individuals such as rock musician Greg Kihn and pro wrestler Alexis Smirnoff, will bid farewell to its loyal customers. The Mercury News provides further details on the restaurant’s prominent clientele.
Phillip Lee, who took over the family business after his father passed away last winter, shared the heartfelt story and deep connection behind the establishment. Reflecting on his late father, Lee fondly remembered, “Despite approaching his 90th birthday, my dad was still full of energy and determination. He was the kind of person who lived to work – for over 50 years, he dedicated himself to this business, coming in every single day.” In a statement obtained by the Mercury News, Lee emphasized the unwavering passion that has driven their culinary venture since its unconventional beginnings in a Newark shopping center back in 1970.
The Lee family has a long history in the restaurant business, dating back to the 1950s when Phillip Lee’s grandfather opened a restaurant in Oakland. Taking a chance in 1970, they transformed a backroom restaurant in a Newark bar into the beloved Jade Palace that we know today. Over the years, the restaurant has gained a loyal following with its delectable dishes, including classics like chop suey and Mongolian beef. It has become a community hub in the East Bay area, serving as a meeting place for the local East Bay community, as praised by Franz Bruckner, a regular customer and family friend.
Yelp users are also sharing their disappointment about the upcoming closure. Ernesto P. from Oakland expressed his love for chow mein and how difficult it is for him to find a place like Jade Palace. He recently discovered this hidden gem and now feels saddened by its closure. Meanwhile, Anita L. from Fremont shared her heartbreak, emphasizing the unique and irreplaceable American-friendly dishes offered by Jade Palace. She wished the Lee family the best in their upcoming retirement.
The closure of Jade Palace not only marks the end of a business but also signifies the end of a beloved community gathering spot that has been around for over fifty years. As the Indian kitchen prepares to take its place, loyal customers and the Lee family are bidding their final goodbyes, transforming a restaurant renowned for its traditional Cantonese cuisine into a cherished memory for many. While Phillip Lee eagerly looks forward to retirement and the opportunity to spend quality time with his children, travel, and indulge in his hobbies of restoring vintage cars and bicycles, he can’t help but feel a mix of emotions as he leaves behind the community he considers family. “We will miss all these people, though… They’re like family,” he shared with the Mercury News.
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