For over two decades now, Maryville has been served authentic Chinese food from the longstanding Happy Garden. However, the future of the Asian cuisine titan has become undetermined.
Happy Garden has remained a consistent presence within the Far Eastern eateries in Maryville for a long time.
The restaurant has persisted through over 20 years of open doors in the food industry, which is unheard of for a small town restaurant. Approximately 60% fail within the first year, while 80% fail within the first five, according to the National Restaurant Association.
With these harrowing numbers on the table, Happy Garden defied the odds for multiple decades. It has stayed firm with its menu and has continued to provide a comforting hospitality experience, according to customer reviews.
But Father Time waits for no one, as the restaurant has seemingly found itself in the midst of a cook crisis. With only details coming from an outside family member not affiliated with the restaurant, and the restaurant’s unwillingness to address the situation, Maryville residents have been left confused and hesitant about what’s to come.
Maryville resident Dylan Taylor is just one of those concerned. He said he would be heartbroken by the eatery’s departure.
“Happy Garden closing would be a tragedy for the food scene in Maryville,” Taylor said. “They for sure have the highest quality food out of all the Chinese restaurants in town.”
The Asian cuisine scene for a long time has been stagnant, with just Happy Garden, Simply Siam, Hy-Chi and Joy Wok being the main choices for residents. Recently, the market has welcomed two new businesses into the area in the past couple years.
Raku Hibachi Sushi and Ramen, and Lola’s Lumpias and Filipino food have made some noise in their short tenures in Maryville, but their respective menus are focused on foods from different cultures than those of Happy Garden.
With such little information known at this time, only speculations can be made about why one of the longest-standing restaurants in Maryville is unable to find a replacement cook. Taylor said that he believes the small town employment landscape could be the reason as to why.
“I think that the job market is really tough right now, especially in small towns,” Taylor said. “It would just make more sense to move to a bigger city with more opportunities or higher pay.”
Small towns have been affected by labor shortages since COVID, with restaurant workers choosing other career paths with higher pay to support the ever-rising cost of living. The U.S. Restaurant Sector also believes COVID forced restaurant workers into more stable careers.
When approached about the potential of Happy Garden closing, one of their employees said it has been working toward a resolution to their labor issues. This was all the restaurant employees were willing to say as of Dec. 2, with promises to provide further information as it develops.
Amid these unpredictable times, Happy Garden has maintained its position in the community and continues to prepare and serve meals day in and day out.
Residents in Maryville, like Taylor, are waiting for more news on the future of their beloved Chinese restaurant. For now, only time will determine the fate of the longtime staple.
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