After over four decades of dishing out heaps of Chinese-American classics, Mee Mah, a neighborhood staple in Chicago, has shuttered its doors. Benjamin Wong, the son of proprietors Bill and Sandy Wong, made the announcement last week, indicating the restaurant served its final customers on Sunday, December 10, as per Chicago Eater. Located on West Peterson Avenue, Mee Mah has been a touchstone of the community since 1982, renowned for its supersized egg rolls and hearty family meals.
"We want to express our deepest gratitude to all our customers who come from near and far and have supported us through many generations," Wong stated in a news release, demonstrating a blend of appreciation and nostalgia regarding the eatery's long run. The decision to finally shut down was not an easy one, taking into account the myriad of cherished moments shared within Mee Mah's walls. As reported by WGN-TV, the family took to social media to seamlessly communicate directly with their patrons, thanking them for years of loyalty and shared memories.
The Wongs, part of a larger dynasty of Chinese restaurant owners in Chicago, maintained a throwback decor in the restaurant. Pink laminate tables, wood-paneled walls, and floral upholstery created a retro ambiance that customers found both charming and nostalgic. Mee Mah wasn't just a spot for dining; it was a haven for families and even an annual tradition for some on December 24.
Mee Mah's closure has sparked an outpouring of sentimental reactions from fans spanning the city to as far as Georgia. "Even though I live in Georgia, I still haven't been able to find as good Chinese as I had at Mee Mah!!," one long-distance fan writes on Facebook, acknowledging the restaurant's unique place in their hearts. As the Wongs retire, their clientele has to begin to seek new venues to create memories and uphold traditions once housed within the iconic restaurant's walls.
