SLO's Classic Noodle House

Neon Sign for Mee Heng Low Restaurant

Our Story

Mee Heng Low Noodle House is a beloved San Luis Obispo institution, renowned for its authentic, handcrafted noodle dishes and traditional Chinese-American cuisine. This culinary tradition dates back to the city's historic "Noodle Boom" of the early 20th century. We offer a welcoming, no-frills atmosphere where guests can enjoy classic dishes prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients and time-honored recipes. We are also pleased to offer a variety of delicious options for those with vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free dietary preferences.

Our menu features a variety of signature noodle soups, flavorful stir-fries, and comforting favorites that have delighted the community for generations. As the sole, proud, and beloved survivor of that early culinary era and the "Chow Mein War," Mee Heng Low is committed to providing a genuine taste of heritage. We serve hearty meals in a space where friends and family can gather, share stories, create lasting memories, and enjoy live music.

A bowl of chop suey noodles with carrot and cilantro garnish

Meet Chef Russell Kwong, the heart and soul behind the delicious flavors at Mee Heng Low. Russell's connection to the restaurant runs deep, as he spent his high school years working in the kitchen shortly after his family took over.

After graduation, he expanded his culinary horizons, moving first to Santa Cruz and then to Portland, Oregon, where he gained valuable experience working for James Beard Award-winning chef Vitaly Paley at Imperial in Hotel Lucia. Russell returned to San Luis Obispo in 2019 to lend a hand in his father’s kitchen. Shortly after the pandemic hit, he assumed day-to-day operations, bringing his inherited knowledge, external expertise, and a commitment to quality and authenticity to every dish.

Behind the Wok

Owner Chef Russell Kwong cooking infront of a hot wok

A Century of Flavor

From its origins in the early 20th century to its current status as a beloved SLO institution, Mee Heng Low's journey is a testament to resilience, family, and the enduring power of good food. Explore the key milestones in our rich history:

  • A Culinary Legacy Begins
    Gin Sai Yuen (aka Gei Chung and Quong Chong) founds San Luis Obispo’s first documented Chinese food business, a tea store, marking the start of a multi-generational food dynasty.
  • Mee Heng Low Opens
    Gin Jack opens Mee Heng Low on December 3rd, remodeling the premises of the Hong Kong Restaurant in an 1874 false-front building.
  • Securing a Foundation
    Gin Jack buys the building, evading California’s anti-Asian property laws with ostensible California birth.
  • Next Generation Takes the Helm
    Gin Jack sells the restaurant to his next-generation Chinese-born cousin Gow Gin and wife Peggy.
  • A Modern Transformation
    Gow and Peggy Gin replace the original structure with the current Mid-Century Modern concrete, glass, and tile building.
  • Family Stewardship Continues
    Gow and Peggy’s sons, Johnny and Billy Gin, take over and run the restaurant.
  • Historic Recognition
    The Mee Heng Low building becomes a Contributing Resource of San Luis Obispo’s Chinatown Historic District.
  • New Stewards
    The Hyunh family takes over operations after Johnny and Billy Gin.
  • The Kwong Era
    The Kwong family begins their stewardship, lovingly maintaining and continuing the restaurant’s rich legacy.
  • Documenting History
    The Gin family publishes the Mee Heng Low cookbook in 2015, with an expanded edition released in 2020.
Historic black and white photo of the Mee Heng Low noodle shop in 1940

More than just a dining destination, Mee Heng Low is a living piece of San Luis Obispo’s heritage, embodying a story of resilience, community, and the enduring appeal of authentic, heartfelt cuisine. We are proud to continue this legacy, serving not just food, but also a taste of history.

Savor Our Tradition

People celebrating in front of Mee Heng Low Noodle House with fireworks in the background

Thank you for being a part of our journey. We invite you to come and experience the authentic taste of Mee Heng Low Noodle House.