2 weeks Ago
Beverly Boulevard Chinese restaurant Mandarette Chinese Cafe suddenly closed on April 14 after 40 years. The restaurant had previously announced a temporary closure on its website , but a note was posted on the front door saying that the closure was permanent. “After 40 years in business, Mandarette Chinese Cafe has decided to close our doors,” the note reads.
“We want to fully express our deep gratitude for your business and support.” No further reason for the closure has been shared. Eater LA has reached out for comment.
Mandarette was opened in 1984 by Cecilia Chiang and her son Philip Chiang. Before opening Mandarette, Cecilia opened high-end restaurant the Mandarin in San Francisco in the 1960s, which received critical acclaim and attracted clientele like Vic Bergeron of Trader Vic’s. In 1975, the Chiangs opened a second location of the Mandarin in Beverly Hills, which Philip took over entirely in the ’80s.
In 1993, Philip went on to co-found P.F. Chang’s; Mandarette was sold to its head chef, whose family operated the restaurant until its closure.
In contrast to Mandarin, Mandarette offered a more relaxed environment to enjoy traditional Chinese cooking, with modern touches. It became a local favorite for its flexible cooking, catering to dietary needs including those avoiding gluten. The menu was made up of classics including fried rice, crab rangoons, char siu, and General Tso’s chicken.
Its closure marks another devastating loss in LA’s old-school dining scene. In recent months, the city has lost classic standbys including the Original Pantry Cafe , the Luggage Room , and Papa Cristo’s , which is set to close on May 4. Sign up for our newsletter.
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