China Lantern Returns to New Bedford After 17 Years and Hired a Robot

The rumors are true about China Lantern in New Bedford. After 17 years of sitting vacant, patiently waiting, this Cinderella has finally decided to return to the ball. China Lantern in New Bedford is back, baby!

The Phones Started Ringing Right Away

The MGM Show brought our show to the celebration this week, and the ripple effect has been nothing short of stunning. The phone was ringing off the hook on Wednesday morning from excited former customers of the previous China Lantern restaurant.

"They were in disbelief that China Lantern was back," said manager Jessie Mueller. "Everyone is wondering if it is the same owners running it, but it isn't. The previous owners are in their 80s and are enjoying retirement in Florida."

Mueller said renovations of the former China Lantern began about two years ago, and the restaurant had their soft opening a couple of weeks ago.

Meet Ling Ling the Robot Server

China Lantern's reopening has an unlikely new star, its fully-functional robot named Ling Ling. The robot has become a mix between a mascot and an attraction, but Mueller said it is not just a novelty item. "That robot really helps," she said. "It helps especially when you have a big table, you don't have to run back and forth to the kitchen, Ling Ling can bring everything out at once. She makes the service better."

Who Owns China Lantern Now?

China Lantern's current ownership includes Ying Zhao, who owns the three local Ying Dynasty locations in South Dartmouth, Sippican, and Mattapoisett.

Zhao owned the China Lantern building (down to the former Mimi's Kitchen) for well over a decade and to the delight of many finally decided to reopen the popular Chinese restaurant after the 17 year hiatus.

MGM Show Recommendations

The MGM Show particularly liked the Cantonese rice paired with the General Gao's chicken. We also recommend the Dragon Bowl over the Scorpion Bowl, especially if you like flavorful, fruity drinks.

Fun 107 wishes the new China Lantern all the luck in the world with their new restaurant!