Hung Far Low (restaurant) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Hung Far Low |
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The building which housed the original restaurant and its restored signage in 2016
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| Restaurant information | |
| Established | 1928 |
| Closed | 2015 |
| Food type | Chinese |
| Street address |
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| City | Portland, Oregon |
| County | Multnomah |
| State | Oregon |
| Country | United States |
Hung Far Low was a popular Chinese restaurant located in Portland, Oregon. It was a well-known spot in the city's Old Town Chinatown neighborhood for many years. The restaurant was famous for its food and its very large, eye-catching sign.
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About Hung Far Low
Hung Far Low opened its doors in 1928. The name "Hung Far Low" has a special meaning. In Cantonese, it can mean "red flower restaurant." In the Taishanese dialect, it means "almond blossom fragrance."
Restaurant's Story
The restaurant was first located at 112 Northwest 4th Avenue. This building was built in 1916. Wong On was the original owner. The restaurant was open from lunchtime until late at night.
In 1938, Jack Wong, who ran the restaurant, bought the building. The Wong family still owns the building today. Many people loved Hung Far Low. It was known for its cozy atmosphere.
A writer named Becky Ohlsen described the restaurant in her 2013 book. She mentioned its small, dark bar area. It had a glowing Buddha statue and a long, narrow staircase.
Moving to a New Spot
In 2005, Hung Far Low moved to a new location. It went to 2410 Southeast 82nd Avenue. This move happened because of city development plans. Rising rent costs also played a part.
The new building was simpler, with a large parking lot. It was near other Chinese restaurants and Asian markets. Hung Far Low was open most days until 11 PM or 11:30 PM. They even had a "happy hour" in the afternoons. The restaurant finally closed in 2015.
An interesting fact is that American chemist Kenneth Koe once worked there. He washed dishes at Hung Far Low while attending Reed College.
The Famous Sign
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One of the most famous things about Hung Far Low was its huge sign. People called it the "Hung Far Low sign." It also said "Chop Suey Hung Far Low Cocktails." This sign was put up as early as 1928.
The sign was very big, weighing about 2,000 pounds. It was two stories tall. Over the years, the sign and its supports got damaged.
Saving the Sign
In 2008, the sign was taken down during building renovations. It was stored away for safety. Many local people wanted to save this important advertisement. They started a campaign to keep it.
Restaurant owners Kurt Huffman and Andy Ricker also worked to save the sign. They knew how popular it was.
In 2010, a company called Security Signs restored the sign. It cost $77,000 to fix it. The city's development commission paid a large part of this cost. Money was also raised from selling T-shirts and other events.
The old neon sign's top and bottom parts were saved. The rest was made new from aluminum. The pieces were welded together and painted. This new treatment is expected to last for 50 years.
What the Sign Means
The restored sign was shown to the public on September 2, 2010. Bruce Wong, whose grandfather put up the original sign, was there. The sign now hangs at Northwest Fourth Avenue and Couch Street.
The Hung Far Low sign is seen as a landmark in Portland. It's also a reminder of Chinese-American history in the city. It has been part of walking tours of the Old Town Chinatown area. People call it an "icon" and "unforgettable."
