Dine, Dance, Delight: Benny Chan’s Ming Restaurant Experience
Benny Chan – Chef, Owner, and Island Cuisine Pioneer
Benny Chan was a well-known restaurateur and chef who brought expertise and flair to the Utah dining scene. Before opening the Ming Restaurant in Granger, he managed and cooked at the China Food Kitchen, building a reputation for excellence in Chinese cuisine. He also spent many years as chef at the Hotel Nevada and Bank Club in Ely, Nevada, honing his skills and delighting diners with refined and flavorful meals. He was the owner of the famous Polynesian Restaurant in Salt Lake.
By the early 1970s, Benny Chan had firmly established himself as one of Salt Lake Valley’s leading restaurateurs, shaping the local appreciation for Cantonese cuisine and Polynesian-inspired dining. His newest venture, The Ming Restaurant at 2055 West 3500 South in Granger, had quickly become a culinary landmark in the fast-growing southwest part of the valley.
The Ming’s decor reflected Chan’s vision of blending ancient Chinese artistry with modern Western design. The main dining area showcased the Eight Immortals, authentic wood carvings, and a palatial ceiling of imported tiles, creating an elegant and immersive atmosphere that transported diners across continents. A Cathay-appointed coffee shop complemented the space, offering both casual dining and banquet facilities.
At The Ming, Cantonese cuisine was the star. Benny Chan combined his years of experience on the West Coast and his work at The Polynesian in downtown Salt Lake to craft a menu that appealed to both locals and adventurous diners. The restaurant offered everything from exotic beverages and Polynesian tidbits to a wide range of American and Cantonese dishes. Like his other ventures, The Ming provided home delivery, ensuring that the flavors of Cantonese cuisine were accessible across the area.
Adjacent to his downtown Polynesian Restaurant, Chan also operated the China Food Kitchen, a fast delivery service specializing in American and Cantonese dishes. Across all his ventures, he credited his success to one constant: his customers. His philosophy was simple yet enduring—serve high-quality, attractively presented food in a friendly, uniquely decorated environment. It was this dedication to service and excellence that made Benny Chan a trusted and beloved figure in the community.
The Ming had become more than just a restaurant; it was a destination where diners could experience the rich flavors and artistry of Chinese culture, guided by the expertise and vision of Benny Chan.
The Ming Restaurant a standout destination in Granger.
Back in the early 1970s, Benny Chan’s Ming Restaurant in Granger wasn’t just about delicious Cantonese cuisine—it was also the place to be for live island entertainment!
Every Friday & Saturday
Show Times: 7:15 p.m., 9:00 p.m., 11:00 p.m.
Guests enjoyed live dancers and performers, vibrant music, and a festive South Seas atmosphere that made dining at The Ming an unforgettable experience. Families and friends gathered not just for the food, but for the excitement and flair of the shows—a true highlight of Granger’s culinary and cultural scene!
