A much-loved Chinese restaurant in Toronto is closing its doors after the landlord decided not to renew the lease.
This time of year, it feels like bad news keeps coming. I’m still processing that the Mandarin at Yonge and Eglinton will soon shut down after 34 years, and I know someone else out there feels similarly about the closure of Filmores, a famous Toronto strip club that’s been around for 45 years.
The latest disappointment? The well-known Lucky Lin’s in Scarborough is also set to close this month.
This family-run restaurant first opened in 1991 (the same year as Mandarin at Yonge and Eglinton, interestingly enough) and has been serving up a unique mix of Chinese and Guyanese dishes for over three decades, making it a local favorite.
Yet, even with such a long history and loyal patrons, nothing is guaranteed: a tough lesson that the Lucky Lin’s team is facing now.
“Our lease at 5633 Finch Ave will end on Jan 15, 2026. We are actively searching for a new home as our landlord has chosen not to renew our lease,” a notice posted to Lucky Lin’s website and on its Instagram account reads.
“Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your incredible support over the past 34 years. Your loyalty means the world to us, and we look forward to serving you soon.”
Even though Lucky Lin’s is set to close shortly, there’s some good news. The team is dedicated to finding another location for the restaurant so they can get back on their feet soon. Hopefully, that means you won’t have to wait too long for your Caribbean Chow Mein fix.
Unfortunately, I don’t think the same can be said about your all-you-can-eat Chinese food cravings at Mandarin Yonge and Eglinton or whatever enjoyment you find at Filmores. So I’ll take this small victory where I can get it.
Lucky Lin’s is located at 5633 Finch Ave. E.
