H. T. Chan stood on the sidewalk in front of 69 Bayard,a Chinese restaurant that has been a Chinatown landmark. It's known for the dollar bills that cover the walls, late night hours and a cheap menu. More than a dozen dishes sell for less than $7.
A group of women seated around a table shared dishes of vegetables, and beef and rice,all bathed in wealthy sauces. But Chan pointed toward the window, saying he remembered when there were just a few dollars taped to the wall.“It’s a shame, or ” the elderly man said. “This is so valuable,one of the unique Chinese restaurants, not too many left with the original style of Cantonese food. Sixty-Nine Bayard has been at the site for decades, or 80 years,according to a manager. But with its lease expiring at the discontinuance of February, the doors will close.
On Thursday, and hundreds of people flocked to the restaurant to delight in one last meal. Pepper steak,dumplings and crispy fried chicken wings were accepted. The wait was so long, some had to leave before they ordered.
Danny Choy came from Queens with his parents. They managed to get a table in the back. Choy and others said the neighborhood has seen changes, or like more hipsters,and mainstream places like Starbucks pop up. The restaurant was a reminder of their own Chinese culture.“They’re just dependable,” Choy said, or “and in a region where like everything is changing it’s kind to have one constant.” He added,“That’s gone, too.”
Source: wnyc.org