Word spread fast after the announcement that one of Watertown’s dining institutions would be closing. Diners lined up to get a seat at opening time, and good luck finding a seat at dinner time. Fans of China Rainbow wanted to get one last tasty meal and a Mai Tai before owner Tammy Young retired after more than 50 years.
China Rainbow opened in 1973, and in some ways changed very little. Stepping into the door of the building on North Beacon Street with a simple sign was like a trip back in time. Dark but cozy, red vinyl booths, wood paneling, a small bar, and of course delicious Chinese food.
In early December, a simple note was posted at the entrance.
Thank you for your patronage. I am deeply grateful for the memories, laughter and loyal support over the years and will cherish the time we’ve spent together.
I love you all.
Tammy
After that China Rainbow was the hottest place in town. Friends made plans for a night out, families gathered in the booths, and every seat at the bar was filled with people sipping on Polynesian drinks.
One of China Rainbow’s regulars, Drew Rollert, said plans for a water shuttle on the Charles River was hatched over drinks at the restaurants bar.
On Friday, the restaurant’s second to last day, loyal customers toasted the China Rainbow staff, and presented Tammy with a cake. Peter Centola, who has been frequenting China Rainbow for many years, provided photos from the celebration.
Share your memories of China Rainbow in the comments below (please include you name) or send photos new or old, to watertownmanews@gmail.com.
Pics and Memories
From Garnet Foley
I have lived in Watertown about 15 years, and one point walking distance from “the rainbow”. It wasn’t until the past October that we wandered in and immediately knew. Very quickly it became an almost weekly stop after sports, work etc. Tammy and her crew couldn’t have been more gracious hosts. The food was always and hot and fresh, and the drinks were always perfect. Those mai tais will live on in infamy. I know Watertown will feel its loss!!
These are pictures from this past Wednesday, our thoughts were go big or go home! And we weren’t ready to go home!
-and the beloved Wonton soup and pupu platter for everyone
Janice Cousineau
I remember when China Rainbow opened, and it quickly became my favorite place for Chinese food. I live in Michigan now, and the last time I was home, they were closed for vacation. I remember Tammy working behind the bar, making the best drinks, especially Mai Tai’s. Congratulations on a wwell deserved retirement Tammy, you’ll be missed by your customers, young and old.
Bob Crocker
I WILL MISS YOU TAMMY, A LOT OF MEMORIES, THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING.
Mark Sullivan
I have been going to China Rainbow since the late 70’s, great food, best spareribs around, I would have a couple of drinks on a friday or saturday night, then order my food for my parents and myself. I would talk to Danny for hours and Sheila and Jim. Tammy is one of the nicest persons I have met, thank you Tammy and have a happy and healthy retirement, Mark Sullivan.
Marian Ferro
I always loved China Rainbow! Tammy deserves a good retirement, but I’m still sad to see it go! We were planning to get food from there for New Year’s Eve, as we usually do.
Paul Fahey
Glad I got there one last time before they closed. Best to Tammy!!
I remember when China Rainbow opened, and it quickly became my favorite place for Chinese food. I live in Michigan now, and the last time I was home, they were closed for vacation. I remember Tammy working behind the bar, making the best drinks, especially Mai Tai’s. Congratulations on a wwell deserved retirement Tammy, you’ll be missed by your customers, young and old.
I WILL MISS YOU TAMMY, A LOT OF MEMORIES, THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING.
I have been going to China Rainbow since the late 70’s, great food, best spareribs around, I would have a couple of drinks on a friday or saturday night, then order my food for my parents and myself. I would talk to Danny for hours and Sheila and Jim. Tammy is one of the nicest persons I have met, thank you Tammy and have a happy and healthy retirement, Mark Sullivan.
Glad I got there one last time before they closed. Best to Tammy!!
I always loved China Rainbow! Tammy deserves a good retirement, but I’m still sad to see it go! We were planning to get food from there for New Year’s Eve, as we usually do.
Another treasured restaurant bites the dust along with Lanno’s, Verona’s, Porcini’s!
The China Rainbow was our Watertown’s version of Cheers with an Asian flair!
Tammy worked so hard over all the years, taking orders, mixing drinks and spending time talking to the customers and developing so many friendships.
She deserves a wonderful retirement and time to spend relaxing, traveling or whatever.
I imagine her famous Mai Tai recipe will remain a secret!
All the best, Tammy.