Golden Wheel Restaurant Is Officially for Sale in Downtown Yakima

The oldest family-owned restaurant in downtown Yakima, the Golden Wheel Chinese Restaurant, whose history dates back to the late 1930s, and its cohort, The Lotus Room, are still open for business.

Golden Wheel Hits the Yakima Real Estate Market

Fast forward to now, when I just found out that that Golden Wheel is on the market. The property is currently owned by the Chin Family, whose paternal family brought the place to life almost a century ago. This news also means that place Yakima goes to 'get Lotusized' is also included in the sale.

The building is currently listed for sale for $635,000 on Almon Realty. Whoever buys the property will inherit the restaurant's existing furniture and kitchen equipment and the basement and the opportunity to keep the historic corner street restaurant going. Yakima County public records show there are nearly $10,000 in delinquent taxes on the parcel.

Many Nights of Nostalgia Haunts This Landmark Restaurant & Bar

I've only eaten Chinese food inside the restaurant once, but I've spent many fun nights hanging out singing karaoke in The Lotus Room. I was just telling one of my best friends this morning how The Lotus Room hasn't really changed that much since she moved away over 15 years ago--it still has the same entrance through the back alley, the same distinct maroon walls, leathery booth seats, tiki bar decor, and familiar old wooden tables and chairs.

Golden Wheel The Lotus Room — Lotus Room via Facebook

Is This Truly the End of an Era in Downtown Yakima?

As a foodie, I am somewhat miffed about the latest round of retail news. I mean, just a week ago, we collectively gasped when The Sports Center, another iconic and historic restaurant and bar in downtown Yakima, abruptly closed for business, and we're hoping someone snatches up the restaurant soon and brings it back to life.

It's not all sad news though: a new bar just opened up not far from Golden Wheel and is quickly becoming a hotspot watering hole and eatery for locals. It's called Once or Twice (31 N Front St).

What fond memories of The Lotus Room and Golden Wheel do you have to share?