After an unexpected closure spurred by a dangerous steam issue, Philadelphia's Chinatown culinary favorite, Sang Kee Peking Duck House, has welcomed patrons back last Saturday. According to NBC Philadelphia, the Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I) mandated the shutdown earlier this month when a hot steam problem was discovered, presenting a hazard to both the restaurant and the public. Sang Kee's management previously cautioned via Instagram about the steam vents, instructing customers to navigate carefully around the taped-off sidewalks.
Embodying community resilience and the power of collective effort, Sang Kee's reopening was not solitary an achievement of the restaurant's crew but also of the city officials and community leaders who stepped in. On Instagram, Sang Kee acknowledged the part played by supporters, "During this extraordinary challenge time, your outpouring of support and offers to assist have meant the world to us," they shared, highlighting the communal aid that contributed to finding a temporary solution to the issue, as per NBC Philadelphia.
In a statement obtained by FOX 29, Sang Kee's General Manager, Henry Chow, expressed a deep sense of relief over the reopening: "It’s been a really long week and we’re really excited to be back open. Super relieved and I’m glad I’m not here day and night trying to organize utility agencies and contractors," he said. The L&I had initially required the restaurant to cease operations due to a damaged steam pipe, risking damage to key electrical and fire control systems.
Customers have shown a strong affinity for the eatery, viewing its return as a pre-holiday gift, evident in customer sentiments shared with FOX 29. "We’ve been eating this since we were kids. It’s my favorite meal, duck and rice. I could eat that every day for the rest of my life," stated one patron, Giovanni Lones. While the underlying cause of the steam issue was traced to a water service line at a nearby business by Vicinity Energy and the Philadelphia Water Department, Chow mentioned the pursuit of a permanent fix to prevent future disruptions.
The dedication of Sang Kee's staff and the support from city officials have been pivotal, as articulated by Chow in an interview with 6abc, "It's really nice to see faces here again. For the last seven days, it's been me and city workers and contractors, just not the normal sight you would see in the dining room." Chow also acknowledged the efforts toward a lasting resolution to the steam conundrum.
