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MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Technically, the House of Wong in Roseville is a Chinese restaurant. But this culinary story isn't cut and dry.
Renee Proue manages the restaurant.
"The newer customers might wonder how you can get a hamburger in a Chinese restaurant," Proue said.
She explained the burgers to us, as well as the turkey and gravy and pot roast.
"When Dad came to Roseville, he looked around in the community and he saw who was living here. And so he wanted to please their palates, and he knew that he had to cook American food as well as Chinese," Proue said.
Her father, who is now 92, is a Fargo native and proud World War II veteran. Her mom was born in China.
"He married her after the war. He always says, 'That was my one GI benefit that I used!'" she said.
When Teddy Wong returned, he decided to open the House of Wong -- a solid business with a split menu. They've been going strong for 58 years.
Renee manages the restaurant and a former employee now owns it. Teddy's menu remains constant.
"I don't think you could find chow mein anywhere else as good as what this is, ever," said customer Jeanette Holden.
And that's only the beginning. Each day there are Chinese lunch specials, like sweet and sour chicken or lo mein. And there are American specials, like slow roasted turkey and dressing.
"They are very happy with the amount of food they get for the price," Proue said.
Dick Jacobsen, a 57-year regular, totally agrees.
"There are portions that are so big that most people will go home with a bag," Jacobsen said.
And those people keep coming back.
"We have many, many loyal customers and we love serving them, and they're not just customers to us, they're friends," Proue said. "They're just wonderful people and we love them all. So we're privileged to be able to serve them the food that they enjoy."
And some of those who have served food you may recognize. St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman is a former employee, and so is "Sweet Martha" Rossini Olson.
"Marty, yeah, she was a good employee," Proue said.
Clearly, the House of Wong is home to a lot of people; a place where large portions and small prices equal a satisfying investment.
All of the House of Wong lunch specials are under $9. They are also known for their fresh-baked pies.