Fall River, Massachusetts, is a city with a rich culinary history, known for its vibrant diner culture and unique Portuguese cuisine. However, like many cities, it has witnessed the rise and fall of numerous restaurants, leaving a void in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Among the many eateries that have come and gone, five restaurants stand out for their impact on the city's food scene and the memories they've left behind.
One such establishment is China Royal, a restaurant that once thrived in the 1970s and 1980s. Located in a former A&P supermarket, the restaurant was transformed into a grand pagoda-style dining experience by owner Chung Gong Wong. With a half-million-dollar renovation, China Royal became a hub for live performances, hosting dancing, comedy, and music from Polynesian musicians and fire dancers. The restaurant's capacity to accommodate 750 people made it a popular destination for special occasions and celebrations. Despite its success, China Royal closed in 2001, leaving a void in the city's culinary landscape.
Another beloved restaurant that has closed its doors is Mee Sum, a Chinese American eatery that opened in 1950. Located on South Main Street, Mee Sum became known for its chow mein sandwiches, a unique dish that has become synonymous with Fall River. The restaurant's décor blended down-home familiarity with exotic Asian flair, making it a popular spot for generations of locals. The Marks, the longtime owners, closed the restaurant to retire, leaving a culinary legacy that continues to be celebrated.
Billy's Café, a sports bar and pub, was a staple in Fall River's Bedford Street for decades. Founded in 1934 by William Oliveira Soares, the bar became a haven for sports fans and working stiffs. With its mahogany bar and pub food, including chouriço and chips sandwiches, Billy's Café was a local favorite. Despite its popularity, the bar closed in 2012 due to economic hardship, leaving a void in the city's social scene.
Earnshaw's Diner, a classic diner that opened in 1929, was a late-night haven for club sandwiches, milkshakes, and short stacks. The diner's Broadway location was particularly notable for its late-night hours, attracting young people looking for a post-clubbing bite. However, the diner's popularity waned in the 1990s, and it eventually closed in 2009, leaving a void in the city's late-night dining scene.
One restaurant that may see a revival is Dairy Freeze, an ice cream shop that opened in 1952. Established by David Couto, the shop became a family business, serving banana splits, sundaes, and malteds to the South End of Fall River. The Dairy Freeze's prominent sign featuring a cone of swirled soft-serve has become an iconic symbol of the city's culinary history. After many years of closure, new owner Kevin Proulx is seeking permission to reopen the Dairy Freeze, aiming to bring back a beloved sweet treat.
In conclusion, Fall River's culinary history is a tapestry of memories and flavors, woven together by the rise and fall of numerous restaurants. From grand dining experiences to late-night havens, these eateries have left an indelible mark on the city's food scene. As the city continues to evolve, the legacy of these restaurants lives on, reminding us of the importance of preserving culinary history and celebrating the diverse flavors that make Fall River so unique.
