Dallas’ Oldest Chinese Restaurant Closes After 60 Years of Service

The Dallas dining scene marks the conclusion of a significant era. Hong Kong Restaurant, recognized as the city’s longest-operating Chinese establishment, has officially closed its doors in early May 2025. 

This closure marks the end of an era after more than 60 years of providing Cantonese and Szechuan cuisine on Garland Road.

Established in 1962 by chef Bill Pon, the restaurant played a crucial role in transforming Chinese-American cuisine in North Texas. Pon, a seasoned chef with nearly two decades of experience in San Francisco, has a notable history of preparing a meal for First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt.

Hong Kong Restaurant has swiftly established itself as a beloved spot among locals, renowned for its fragrant dishes and inviting ambiance. A 1963 review in The Dallas Morning News commended the experience, stating that the food “engulfs you with flavors, smells and savors.” The watercress soup, a longstanding favorite among patrons, was one of the establishment's most celebrated offerings.

Stephanie Drenka, co-founder of the Dallas Asian American Historical Society, has described the restaurant as “historically significant,” noting its role in introducing authentic Chinese flavors to generations of Dallas diners.

For numerous individuals within the community, Hong Kong transcended its role as merely a dining destination; it served as a vital cultural landmark, valued for its reliability and the lasting memories it fostered.

The closure signifies a significant transition for Garland Road and the East Dallas community adjacent to White Rock Lake. Although an official statement concerning the reasons behind the closure has yet to be issued, the restaurant's influence on the city's culinary history remains indisputable.

The closure marks a significant loss for Dallas, as the city bids farewell to a popular dining establishment and an integral part of its multicultural heritage.

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