The closure of Chef Ming's, a beloved Chinese restaurant in Athens, was a blow to the community. The wait for its return, however, was worth it, as the new owner, Angela Chan, has breathed new life into the establishment. Chan's vision for Buddha's Delight is a testament to her commitment to preserving the restaurant's original charm while adding a modern twist. The interior renovation has transformed the strip-mall storefront into a more upscale dining experience, appealing to both old and new patrons. The menu remains true to its roots, offering a wide array of Chinese delicacies, from classic appetizers like crab rangoon and pot stickers to hearty mains such as lo mein, fried rice, and various meat and seafood dishes. The lunch specials, in particular, are a steal, providing a generous portion of fried rice, a spring roll, and a choice of soup for just $11.15 before tax. My lunch experience at Buddha's Delight was a delightful journey through the flavors of Szechuan cuisine. The Szechuan squid special, with its tender squid, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful Szechuan sauce, was a standout dish. The crisp spring roll and the tangy, peppery hot-and-sour soup further enhanced the meal. To indulge in a touch of nostalgia, I added a $4.95 order of Chinese donuts and a pot of hot tea, making the entire experience even more memorable. The restaurant's new name, Buddha's Delight, is a fitting reflection of the culinary delights it offers. While the name has changed, the taste remains unchanged, and the quality of the food is consistently high. The restaurant's new location at 1720 Epps Bridge Parkway, Suite 107, is easily accessible and conveniently situated between the UPS Store and a GEICO office in the Kroger-Home Depot shopping center. The extended hours, from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. on weekdays and 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekends, make it a versatile choice for various dining occasions. Buddha's Delight is a testament to the power of perseverance and the ability to reinvent oneself. The restaurant's comeback story is a reminder that sometimes, the wait is worth it, and the wait for Chef Ming's return was undoubtedly worth every second. The new owner's dedication to preserving the restaurant's essence while adding a modern touch is a refreshing approach to the dining scene, and it's a welcome addition to the Athens food landscape. In my opinion, Buddha's Delight is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Chinese cuisine with a contemporary twist. The restaurant's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction is evident in every dish, and it's a testament to the owner's passion and dedication. The wait for Chef Ming's return was a lesson in patience, and the result is a dining experience that is both comforting and exciting. Buddha's Delight is a shining example of how a restaurant can evolve while staying true to its roots, and it's a restaurant that I will undoubtedly be returning to.
