The end of an era Pali Kai closes it doors for last time

MARION - Nearly four decades ago, Mayor Robert Butler presided over a ribbon cutting complete with fireworks to celebrate the opening of Marion's first established Chinese restaurant.

On Saturday, Be Nguyen closed the doors of Pali Kai for the last time.

"I'm sad," said Lindsey Spiller on Wednesday, while waiting on a carry out order of chicken fried rice and crab Rangoon, her favorites.

"I understand, though," said Spiller. "The kids are growing up and she (Be) wants to spend time with her grandkids."

Spiller also speculated that the sale of the building to the city might have impacted the decision to close the business.

According to the Century 21 House of Realty in Marion website, the 1,574-square-foot building, located at 108 ½ Madison St., is listed for sale at a price of $52,000.

In January there was speculation that the restaurant might close because of parking issues that were discussed in a Facebook post. That post prompted a flood of comments to the page and several concerned residents to contact City Commissioner Angelo Hightower.

The restaurant's Facebook page, maintained by Mike Nguyen, immediately asked it to remain positive.

"The City of Marion has always been supportive of our business and has done no wrong. We don't support negative or degrading comments regarding Marion City Government," it read.

At its Aug. 13 meeting, the Marion City Council held a discussion about acquiring the property. Mayor Anthony Rinella told the council he was contacted by the real estate agent. According to Rinella, the building has been for sale for some time and the asking price had been reduced to $35,000.

A Facebook post on the Pali Kai page on Aug. 12 stated that Be was given notice on Aug. 2 to vacate the premises within 30 days.

That notice was a point of contention for many, some of whom posted their opinions on the page.

"If we choose to accept that offer, I believe it is up to the city to decide when we need her to vacate that building," Rinella told the council.

After a lengthy discussion, the council tabled the issue to allow the city attorney to study the legal issues.

The Aug. 12 Facebook post from Pali Kai confirmed the decision to close.

"At first there was some anger, frustration, tears, and confusion but mom has since become more comfortable with the idea of retiring. Unfortunately mom feels that starting over and relocating would be too much to handle, so she plans to spend more time with her grandchildren and do some gardening."

During the final week, customers poured into the restaurant, many, like Spiller, who have been enjoying the homemade meals prepared by Be for several years.

"I've been coming here for at least 20 years," said Spiller. "The food is always good."

As for the Nguyen family, they left the Marion business community with quiet class, via a final Facebook post.

"Thanks all for the memories and support ... Mr. Angelo Hightower, Mr. Anthony Rinella, and the Marion community thank you for your support and undying passion to see that Marion thrives."<object id="Extra Pictures" type="x-im/image" uuid="F337AA16-611F-4ADE-91F3-15A606AE2B94"><links><link rel="self" type="x-im/image" uri="im://image/F337AA16-611F-4ADE-91F3-15A606AE2B94.jpg" uuid="F337AA16-611F-4ADE-91F3-15A606AE2B94"><data><title><![CDATA[