After almost five decades of serving the community, Eastern Paradise will close its doors for the final time on Sunday, Dec. 29, marking the end of an era for local diners and families who have made it a tradition.
For many, the restaurant, located on South King Street, is more than just a place to eat; it’s a staple in the community, steeped in history and personal memories. “I’ve been eating here all my life—arguably even before then,” says a loyal customer, reflecting on the restaurant’s deep roots in the family. “My mom slurped down its jjajangmyeon while pregnant with me.”
Eastern Paradise has been a gathering place for family celebrations, where multiple generations have come together around the large round table, filling it with plates of favorite dishes. For many, returning to the restaurant evokes nostalgia and a sense of homecoming.
A Legacy Built by the Lee Family
Steve Lee and his younger brother, Chih-Kuo, have overseen the restaurant for decades, taking over from their parents who opened the establishment on Oct. 1, 1977. The family moved from South Korea to start a new life in Hawaii, bringing with them a unique blend of Chinese cuisine influenced by Korean flavors.
Steve, who manages the front of the house, and Chih-Kuo, the head chef, have made it a point to serve made-to-order dishes, which requires a level of dedication and hard work. Despite the restaurant’s success, Steve admits that the challenges of running the business, combined with difficulties in staffing, made the decision to close inevitable.
“It’s kind of sad,” says Steve Lee. “My kids are all grown up. I didn’t want them to be in the restaurant business because you don’t really have a life.” The closure allows him to focus on personal pursuits, like traveling and spending time with his grandkids, something he hasn’t had the chance to do in years.
Chih-Kuo, who has spent over 30 years perfecting his craft, echoes the sentiment. “It’s time,” he says. The grueling hours during and after the pandemic, where he worked upwards of 12 hours a day, have taken their toll. With his retirement, many of the restaurant’s signature recipes will retire with him.
Signature Dishes and Family Traditions
For many, the food at Eastern Paradise is a part of their family’s traditions. As a Chinese restaurant with Korean influences, the menu reflects the Lees’ heritage and their deep connection to their roots. The Lee family’s signature dishes, such as jjajangmyeon, tangsuyuk (sweet and sour pork), boiled dumplings, and hot and sour soup, have been a staple for regulars and newcomers alike.
“Even after decades of eating here, we’ve always ordered the same four dishes,” says one regular customer, who recounts the cherished family meals at Eastern Paradise. The jjajangmyeon, with its thick noodles coated in a savory-sweet black bean sauce, has become a personal favorite for many who visit.
Another highlight is the tangsuyuk, a crispy, tangy, and sweet dish that is served best when hot and fresh. The family’s boiled dumplings, filled with pork, chives, and Chinese cabbage, offer a comforting and nostalgic flavor, made from a recipe passed down from their mother.
While the restaurant is known for its classic dishes, the experience of dining at Eastern Paradise is about more than just the food. It’s about tradition, family, and the sense of continuity that comes with returning year after year. For many, Eastern Paradise is where memories were made, whether it was a family celebration or simply a meal shared with loved ones.
A Fond Farewell
The closing of Eastern Paradise marks the end of a long-standing chapter in Honolulu’s dining scene, leaving a void for loyal customers who have relied on the restaurant as a comforting and consistent presence in their lives. “Thank you, Eastern Paradise,” says a longtime customer, “You will be missed and remembered fondly.”
The restaurant’s last day of business is Sunday, Dec. 29, and as news of the closure spreads, reservations are highly recommended. Free parking is available behind the building, accessible via South King Street.
As the Lee family prepares to retire, they leave behind a legacy of hospitality, delicious food, and a place where generations of families have gathered. For those who have cherished Eastern Paradise for years, it will undoubtedly remain a fond memory—a reminder of the warmth, both literal and emotional, that the restaurant has provided over the decades.
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