Chicago Cafe, located in Woodland, California, is confirmed by UC Davis law professor Gabriel Chin as the oldest continuously operating Chinese restaurant in the U.S., having opened in 1903. The restaurant experienced a significant increase in patronage following the announcement of its historical status. However, this influx of customers took a toll on the owners, Paul and Nancy Fong, who decided to sell the business as they prepare for retirement. The cafe is currently listed for $50,000, with a focus on finding a buyer committed to preserving its legacy.
Following professor Gabriel "Jack" Chin's announcement of his research findings in January 2024, which indicated that Chicago Cafe is indeed the oldest continuously operating Chinese restaurant in California, and probably in the U.S., the restaurant saw a surge in popularity.
"It was a blessing and a curse," Restaurant Exchange owner Tricia Bernhardt told the Sacramento Bee. "They got so busy, and that made them work even harder, so they got pretty tired, and that made them be more serious to sell to someone who can keep it going."
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