After being closed for more than one year, China Palace reopened its doors on Wednesday at its 140 W. Jefferson Street Location. Ten-year-old Lynida Simmer and her family were among the crowd Wednesday evening gathered at the restuarant.

A palace of Chinese food delight has returned to the city.

Excited customers packed into the China Palace restaurant at 140 W. Jefferson St. on Wednesday, a new beginning and fresh start for the returning downtown restaurant.

“We haven't stopped to eat or drink, so needless to say our Grand Reopening was hugely successful,” said Deanna Van Wyck, a manager for the restaurant.

The two-story building was devastated by a fire in January 2018, leaving the restaurant and more than two dozen people living in apartments displaced.

Van Wyck said the owners, Hai Chen and Tong Weng Chen, were extremely happy to have customers enjoying food once again, and they appreciate the support from the community.

“We love our customers and are so thankful for their unwavering support,” Van Wyck said.

For more about Wednesday's grand RE-opening, check out today's Butler Eagle or subscribe online.