James Chiu, the president and co-founder of Mandarin who transformed a small restaurant in Brampton into Ontario’s top all-you-can-eat Chinese buffet chain, has passed away.
James Chiu, the president and co-founder of Mandarin who transformed a small restaurant in Brampton into Ontario’s top all-you-can-eat Chinese buffet chain, has passed away.
Chiu died on Wednesday, just days after celebrating his 78th birthday, after dealing with pulmonary fibrosis, according to his family.
“He lived with positivity and gratitude until his peaceful passing,” the family shared in an online tribute.
He was a “true restaurant icon,” Mandarin remarked in a social media post.
“James leaves an indelible mark on the hospitality industry,” it stated. “His vision for exceptional food and genuine customer service will live on, inspiring generations to come.”
Chiu immigrated to Montreal from Taiwan with his parents in 1963, as noted by his family in a tribute. He started his first restaurant, Sweet ‘N Sour, after studying business at Concordia University.
“What began as a means for survival transformed into a lifelong love of hospitality,” his family reflected.
Chiu moved to Ontario with his wife and daughter in 1979. Alongside co-founders – his brother George, sister-in-law Diana and friend K. C. Chang – he acquired a small Chinese restaurant named Mandarin in Brampton.
Initially, the restaurant only offered à la carte options for takeout and delivery meals, its website indicates. However, during the 1980s it began expanding to meet rising demand and eventually switched to the buffet model.
Famous for its blue sky murals, panda-themed promotions and long lines for free Canada Day meals, the buffet now boasts 29 locations across Ontario and employs over 3,000 people according to the restaurant’s information.
The restaurant chain also highlighted various community contributions made by Chiu and the Mandarin team over four decades including student scholarships and charity support.
“By teaching and leading by example,(Chiu) showed his family the value of hard work, determination and resilience,” said the online tribute.
Throughout his career, Chiu received several honors such as the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal Award along with a lifetime achievement award from the City of Brampton.
He is survived by his wife, three children and seven grandchildren according to the tribute.
The family mentioned that he lived a “full and vibrant life” and will be remembered for his wit, wisdom and warmth.
“The world has lost a devoted champion of people and community,” they added in their tribute.
This report by The Canadian Press was first May 1, 2026.
Rianna Lim, The Canadian Press
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