by Stockton, CA – Dave Wong’s Restaurant & Deli, a beloved Chinese Cantonese-style eatery, celebrated an impressive 50th anniversary in Stockton, marking half a century of serving the local community with its unique blend of traditional and contemporary Asian cuisine. Since opening its doors in 1975, the restaurant has become a vital cultural and culinary hub for Stockton’s diverse population.
To honor this milestone, the restaurant hosted a festive weekend featuring a ribbon-cutting ceremony, live music, and daily prizes, delighting regular patrons and newcomers alike. Kevin Wong, who took over the business after his father retired, continues to lead with passion and dedication, ensuring the legacy of Dave Wong’s thrives for generations to come.
A Legacy Rooted in Tradition and Aspiration
Dave Wong originally started his career as a waiter at a historic Chinese restaurant in Stockton that had operated for over a century. His dream was to open his own restaurant, a vision realized in 1975 when Dave Wong’s Restaurant & Deli was founded. As Kevin Wong shares, “He started as a waiter a long time ago at another long-time Chinese restaurant that was here for 100 years and his goal was always to break off and establish his own brand and name restaurant.”
Now, under Kevin’s leadership and in collaboration with business partners, the restaurant continues to serve its signature dishes that blend traditional Cantonese-style cooking with popular American favorites like chow mein and fried rice.
Showcasing Stockton’s Culinary Diversity
Kevin Wong emphasizes their culinary style as a reflection of cultural fusion:
“Our style of cooking is Cantonese style, which is more toward the non-spicier-type food but we do provide some spicy dishes like Szechwan dishes, we try to showcase those, too. And some Mandarin dishes.”
This versatility allows the restaurant to appeal to a wide array of customers, fostering a loyal and diverse customer base.
- Celebrates 50 years since opening in Stockton in 1975
- Expanded location in 2002 on March Lane to accommodate larger groups and events
- Known for a family-friendly atmosphere that welcomes all cultures
- Signature dishes include oyster sauce beef, prawns, wrapped fish, and more
Community Reflections and Enduring Bonds
The community’s affection for Dave Wong’s is evident through stories shared by long-time patrons. Families like the Rebudela family have celebrated birthdays and holidays at the restaurant for years. Ben Rebudela Jr. expressed, “It means a lot because you come in, you see all these people all the time, it’s never empty. You see all different types of people and the food’s amazing.”
Michael Heer, a customer since the 1970s, fondly recalls hosting a surprise birthday party at the old Pershing Avenue location. “It was the most fun party I’ve ever hosted,” Heer said. “Their food’s always been great.”
Looking Forward: Continued Success and Growth
The restaurant’s move to March Lane in 2002 allowed for greater capacity and the ability to host banquets and larger gatherings, fueling further growth and community impact.
Kevin Wong acknowledges the ongoing challenge of balancing tradition with innovation while carrying on his father’s legacy with business savvy and personal flair. He aims to deepen customer relationships and maintain Dave Wong’s status as a Stockton institution.
For more about Dave Wong’s incredible journey and celebration, visit the original CBS Sacramento coverage.
Join the Celebration:
What do you think about this milestone for a treasured Stockton restaurant? Share your thoughts and memories of Dave Wong’s in the comments below and celebrate 50 years of a community culinary landmark!
