Tiffany Farrow/The Valdosta Daily Times John Lin, owner of Beijing Cafe, a new Chinese restaurant near the mall, offers authentic Chinese cuisine in a contemporary and inviting atmosphere.

VALDOSTA — Experienced restaurant owner John Lin had been driving through Valdosta for years. With two restaurants, one in Fort Myers, Fla., and another in Atlanta, he passed through Valdosta, stopping for a meal quite frequently.

Many times he opted to dine at American establishments, but other times he chose one of the many Chinese take-out restaurants or buffets in the area. Lin said he felt too often these locations focused on quantity instead of quality and decided that he should open a fine dining restaurant to bring integrity back to the Chinese restaurant industry.

He found a suitable location in the Harvey’s shopping center on Norman Drive across from the mall. Previously the Hong Kong Buffet, the facility was gutted and completely renovated to complete a look that Lin designed himself. A new sign marks the entrance to the Beijing Cafe while the interior features beige walls with dark wood accents, stylish lighting and lots of unique art and decor. The style is very urban, combining both historic and modern elements to create an eclectic, elegant, intimate ambiance.

Within the fine dining restaurant, customers can choose from an extensive menu of high-quality Chinese and Thai dishes. From duck to seafood and rice to egg rolls, there is a dish and price for almost everyone’s taste. Discounts are offered to senior citizens and military personnel.

The well-trained wait staff is ready to provide a unique, fine dining experience to the local residents. Lin has created an intimate ambiance full of Chinese culture that offers an authentic menu full of high-quality, great tasting delicacies.



Q: How has business been?



A: We’ve had a lot of repeat customers. People try it, love it and bring back family and friends.



Q:What has been the most popular dish?



A: People have been trying everything and everyone seems to love it all. They say it is really, really good, especially the Thai food.



Q: What is the difference between Chinese and Thai?



A: Thai has a more South Asian taste and is much spicier than Chinese.



Q: Are you satisfied with your location?



A: Yes, it is great. It is very convenient and there is ample parking.



Q: Tell me about your renovations?



A: Everything is brand new. We gutted it and started over. We have a lot of Chinese architecture and art. I designed it all.



Q: What are your expectations?



A: The main goal is to provide quality food to the people of Valdosta. It’s about quality, not quantity, but we still serve good portions. I hope to eventually make it into a franchise.



Q: What should people know?



A: China has so much history, but many restaurants are only focused on doing buffets without worrying about the quality and culture. I try to bring the quality back and the good image back. I would like to give people a new experience with nice food and more Chinese culture.



Beijing Cafe

Owner: John Lin

Phone: (229) 253-0808

Location: 1715C Norman Drive

Hours: 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. until 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday