BRISTOL, Va. (WJHL) – A local Chinese restaurant announced on Sunday evening it would be closing its doors later this month, after 30 years.
Shanghai Chinese Restaurant said in a social media post, “we’re retiring and saying goodbye,” with their last day being on Sunday, Oct. 18.
The restaurant thanked the Bristol community for its support over the decades.
“A fond farewell
After more than 30 years, the time has come for us to retire and say goodbye. Our last day open will be Sunday, October 18, 2026. Before we close our doors, we want to say thank you.
When we first opened our doors, we could never have imagined everything Shanghai would become. Families gathered here year after year. Familiar faces came in every week. Parents brought their children, then returned with grandchildren. You made us feel at home in this community.
Race weekends on State Street. Rhythm & Roots. Chinese New Year celebrations. The conversations across the counter. The way you checked in on us like family. You showed us how much this little restaurant meant to you. These are memories we’ll cherish forever.
We weren’t always perfect. Food sometimes came out late, things were forgotten, and the kitchen got overwhelmed. You showed us patience and grace. Some of you even stepped in at our busiest to help us keep going. You supported us not only as a restaurant, but as people. Thank you for your kindness.
We were honored when Southern Living named us one of the friendliest places in the South. To us, it reflected what we felt every day: so many of you were no longer just customers. It’s easy to be friendly when your customers are your friends and family.
Thank you for supporting Shanghai, watching our family grow, and giving us more than 30 years of memories. It has been an honor to serve you and to call Bristol and the greater Tri-Cities region home.
With much love, Ying and Xian”
Dining and Cooking