Kim Wu Chinese Restaurant wasn’t just another strip-mall eatery on South Kirkman Road—it was a cherished beacon of comfort food and community for Orlando for nearly four decades. From its humble origins as a mom-and-pop buffet spot to its reputation as the go-to for classic American-style Chinese dishes, Kim Wu earned a loyal following that still mourns its closing.
A Legacy of Flavorful Simplicity
Founded in the early 1980s, Kim Wu thrived by delivering consistent, satisfying dishes at friendly prices. Diners flocked daily to its buffet, featuring familiar favorites like General Tso’s chicken, sweet-and-sour shrimp, egg rolls, and wonton soup. One longtime reviewer noted:
“My lunch included hot tea, my choice of soup, and even an eggroll from the buffet… for $10 it was a good deal. My server was fast and friendly.”
Florida food blogger Jeff Eats praised the restaurant’s approachable menu: “I really enjoyed the wonton soup, general tso’s chicken, sweet & sour chicken and the moo shu pork—I’d rate these dishes… better than ‘others’ I’ve had in South Florida.”
The Heart of the Community
Beyond its dishes, Kim Wu was a community staple. Locals frequently shared fond memories:
“I miss Kim Wu.”
“Tom and Cindy were always friendly and put out some damn good food.”
Families gathered there for lunch and dinner, enjoying plates laden with pork fried rice, moo shu pork, and the familiar buffet. Even after the announcement of its closure in October 2020—after 38 years—reactions were heartfelt:
“One of our family’s favorite Chinese restaurants for YEARS… Kim Wu!”
Honoring a Culinary Institution
At WalalaNoodles.com, we celebrate Kim Wu’s enduring impact. Here’s what set it apart:
- Dependable favorites: Staples like General Tso’s and sweet & sour shrimp were comfort food done right—flavorful, generous, and budget-friendly.
- Down-to-earth service: Friendly staff like Tom and Cindy welcomed regulars with familiar smiles.
- Affordable indulgence: Daily buffet deals under $10 offered unbeatable value with hot tea, soup, and all-you-can-eat choices.
- Cultural connection: For generations of Orlando residents, Kim Wu was more than dinner—it was family time.
Why Kim Wu Still Matters
Even in its absence, Kim Wu continues to influence the city’s Chinese food scene:
- The benchmark: Many local recommendations are still compared to Kim Wu’s standard of hearty portions and friendly prices.
- Nostalgia factor: Mentions in local forums and social media preserve its memory as a beloved childhood and family staple.
- Inspiration for successors: New and existing restaurants strive to capture the same warmth, consistency, and affordability that Kim Wu embodied.
For Visitors and Natives Alike
If you’re searching for “Kim Wu Orlando”, you’re not alone. People are still looking for:
- Kim Wu Chinese buffet
- Kim Wu Orlando closed
- Kim Wu Kirkman Road Chinese
They find stories of delicious wonton soup, cozy buffets, unbeatable deals, and heartfelt service.
Our Tribute
At WalalaNoodles.com, we tip our hats to Kim Wu’s 38-year legacy and representing Chinese Culture and Cuisine. While its doors have closed, the spirit of simplicity, community, and comfort it fostered lives on!
Craving that nostalgic bite?
WalalaNoodles.com – Orlando’s best Hand Pulled Asian Noodles brings together a family atmosphere and the best of Orlando’s Chinese Cuisine in high quality flavors in every bite. Thank you Kim Wu for pioneering and leaving a fantastic legacy behind.