York’s culinary history is dotted with gems that time has swept away, but few are as fondly remembered as the Tung Hing Cantonese restaurant. For those who experienced it, the mere mention of its name stirs a wave of nostalgia—and a pang of loss. Nestled in Gale Lane, Acomb, this unassuming eatery, once known as the New China Palace, wasn’t just a place to dine; it was a cherished institution. But here’s where it gets controversial: despite its acclaim, Tung Hing met its end in 2007 when it was sold at auction for over £1 million, only to be demolished and replaced with apartments. Was this a necessary step for progress, or a heartbreaking loss of local heritage? Let’s dive in.
A post on our Facebook nostalgia group, Why We Love York - Memories, reignited a flood of memories from locals who still swear it was the city’s best Chinese restaurant. One former food reviewer from The Press described it as a hidden treasure, tucked between houses along a quiet stretch of Gale Lane. ‘It’s worth the trip,’ they wrote in 2003, praising its attention to detail, impeccable service, and the warm, family-run atmosphere. The reviewer’s vivid recollection of an elderly Chinese woman sipping tea from a small teapot, surrounded by a family playing cards, captures the essence of what made Tung Hing so special—it felt like home.
And this is the part most people miss: Tung Hing wasn’t just about the food; it was about the experience. Jonathan Gren called it ‘the best Chinese in York,’ while Linda Stainforth, who lived next door, raved about its ‘best food ever.’ Keiko Croft shared a personal touch, recalling her pre-wedding dinner there and the kindness of the owner, Ming. Even the name itself sparked joy, with Katrina O’Donnell admitting it always made her laugh. Ann Johnson’s heartfelt comment, ‘Miss it soooo much,’ echoes the sentiment of many.
But what truly sets Tung Hing apart in the annals of York’s history is the way it brought people together. Whether it was Jane Dilligaf’s memories of delicious food and flowing sake or the countless others who shared their stories, this restaurant left an indelible mark. Its demise in 2007, orchestrated by millionaire developer Peter Mandy, marked the end of an era—one that many still mourn today.
Here’s a thought-provoking question for you: In a city that’s constantly evolving, how do we balance progress with preserving the places that hold our collective memories? Should we fight to keep such establishments alive, or accept that change is inevitable? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your take.
If you’re yearning to relive more of York’s past, join our Why We Love York - Memories Facebook group. It’s a treasure trove of stories, photos, and reminiscences from the 70s, 80s, 90s, and beyond. And if you have your own nostalgia story to share, don’t hesitate to reach out to our Community Content Editor, Maxine Gordon, at maxine.gordon@thepress.co.uk. Let’s keep these memories alive—because sometimes, the past is too precious to forget.
