Almost three decades of filling hungry Marlborough tummies will come to an end for Kitsee and Danny Young when they close the door on their Scott St restaurant, Chung Wah Palace, tomorrow night.
The couple, helped by their children Christopher and Melissa, have served thousands of Chinese, Cantonese, Cambodian, Thai and Kiwi meals, first at their Grove Rd takeaway shop, the Golden Wonton, and later at Chung Wah.
They retain ownership of the building, which will re-open as Accent Restaurant under husband and wife team Merv Smith and Helen Lyon in October. Mr Smith said the restaurant would serve contemporary New Zealand food.
Mrs Young said the family was sad to give up the business, but it was the right decision.
A serious back injury she suffered in 2008 had made it too hard to continue, she said.
"I never stop until I drop ... but my husband didn't want to see me suffer. That's why we decided to sell our business."
Their main message was one of thanks to the Marlborough community, including loyal customers, suppliers and friends who had supported them for 28 years.
They had received many phone calls, cards and flowers after announcing the restaurant would close, she said.
The couple have no immediate plans, other than to "enjoy life", she said.
They will remain in Marlborough.
Farewell: Chung Wah Palace restaurant owners Danny Young, left, her husband Kitsee, and their daughter, Melissa, will end 28 years in the restaurant business when Chung Wah Palace closes tomorrow night
