Mayflower Chinese restaurant after 37 wonderful years of serving shut down closes Rome NY

Oct 27, 20239 min read

A beloved culinary institution in the heart of Rome, New York, is closing its doors after serving the community for an impressive 37 years. Patrons were met with a bittersweet surprise when they approached the restaurant, only to find a notice posted on the front door announcing its closure:

After 37 wonderful years of serving you, Mayflower Chinese restaurant will officially close its doors on 10/31/2023. Unfortunately, our lease will not be renewed. We're immensely grateful for your love and support throughout the years. Many thanks.

Darin Parry on Facebook

For nearly four decades, the Mayflower had been a gathering place for Rome families seeking comforting Chinese cuisine. Understandably, news of its closure elicited somber remarks on Facebook:

I'm destroyed by this... Best Chinese food restaurant in Rome.

While the sudden closure came as a shock to many, it also inspired reflection on the Mayflower's longstanding impact on the local community:

Will miss the Mayflower. Best Chinese in Rome. Been going there ever since they opened.

Google Maps

We celebrated birthdays, holidays , and happy times at the Mayflower. Best Chinese food ever! Best Wishes for Future Endeavors.

Apart from the decision not to renew their lease, the reasons behind the restaurant's closure remain a mystery. Mayflower's last day serving hungry Rome residents will be Tuesday, October 31st.

As Rome bids farewell to this culinary cornerstone, it's evident that the Mayflower's legacy will live on in the hearts of its patrons.

WHAT IS THE OLDEST CHINESE RESTAURANT IN NEW YORK STATE?

Nom Wah Tea Parlor opened in 1920. This has the honor of being the oldest continuously running restaurant in the Chinatown of Manhattan in New York City.

The restaurant serves Hong Kong style dim-sum and is currently located at 13 Doyers Street in Manhattan."

Take the trip to New York City and enjoy. Here's a look at some of the amazing food:

Gallery Credit: Dave Wheeler

Latke Spring Roll

Nom Wah via Facebook

Latke Spring Roll

2502 W State Street

Olean, NY 14760

(716) 372-2227

TRAVEL WRITER PICKS HIS TOP 12 UPSTATE NEW YORK ITALIAN RESTAURANTS

Over the last 15 years or so, I have driven thousands of miles all around Upstate New York researchi8ng and exploring places for my 12 travel guides published for this area. Almost always, when it comes to dinner time, whether in Buffalo, Ithaca, or the Hudson Valley, I head to an Italian restaurant for a meal. And, yes, over these many years and miles I do have favorites. Here are a dozen of them!

Gallery Credit: Chuck D'Imperio

#1: Little Venice (Binghamton)

Little Venice via Facebook

#1: Little Venice (Binghamton)

For the 4th time over the years in my polls, Little Venice comes in at #1. I find this place so much like an old friend. Beautiful dining room, lovely oil paintings on the wall, celebrity signed photos all over the restaurant, friendly servers who are cheerful, professional, and definitely of the "old school" style of service. Comfortably elegant, and the food is still outstanding. From the best spaghetti sauce you can find, to the tangy Italian dressing and the warm crusty Italian bread, and everything in between, I cannot find a single fault from visiting this venerable establishment which has been open since 1946. I once thought the fact that they do not serve meatballs, but rather meatlogs, was kind of hokey. Now, I can't wait to find them on my plate. So here's to you Little Venice, still #1 in my book!

Little Venice

111 Chenango Street

Binghamton, NY

Broome County

*607) 724-2513

#2: Ralph's Italian American Tavern (Albany)

Ralphs Tavern via Facebook

#2: Ralph's Italian American Tavern (Albany)

I first found Ralphs more than a half century ago when I was attending Albany Business College after graduating from high school in 1967. Even with the little money I had at the time, I loved the food, ambiance, and generous sized portions. None of that has changed. For some reason I have always had my food up at the bar. Whether alone in the "old days" or even now with my wife of many years. I like to watch the bartenders in action, listen in on the chit chat all around from this (seemingly) always busy place, and enjoy watching the sports on TV. The food literally spills out over the plate (or bowl) and although I am tempted to take what I don't eat home with me...I always eat it all while there! I love Ralph's, and it is still one of my favorite dining memories even after more than 50 years.

Ralph's Tavern

1328 Central Avenue

Albany, NY

(518) 489-8290

#3: Santasieros (Buffalo)

Santasieros via Facebook

#3: Santasieros (Buffalo)

During my writing career, whenever I had to do a research trip to Western New York, or maybe I got an invite to do a book presentation around Buffalo, I would smile to myself knowing that I had a dinner waiting for me at this classic old-time Italian restaurant that is now over 100 years old. Menu is still written on the wall, ambiance is still homey and cluttered with family photographs from down through the ages, the wine list is great, the beer is cold, and the food is just like grandma once made,. Simple dishes (the macaroni and bean soup is a highlight) compete with many other servings will give you a belly full of goodness here. And, oddly enough, they make a VERY good Beef on Weck here (the official sandwich of old school Buffalo).The red-and-white checked floor tiles remind me of the Godfather movie for some reason. Can't wait to get back to Buffalo...and the great Santasiero's!!

Santasiero's

1329 Niagara Street

Buffalo, NY

(716) 886-9197

#4: Pizza Land (Oneonta)

Pizza Land via Facebook

#4: Pizza Land (Oneonta)

Full disclosure. I lived in Oneonta all during my 33 year radio career. So, yes, I do have a favorite. I haunted Pizza Land. By myself, going out with friends, for family gatherings, and more. I ordered plenty of pizzas here, and they were fantastic. But for me, the pasta was almost magical. A nice, tangy red sauce, a tiny-bit chewy pasta noodles, large, solid meatballs, and fresh grated Parmesan cheese. That is all I need brother. Oh, and if you order a salad :"with the meat roll ups," you will be in heaven. Trust me. I think they have a plaque on a chair in here for me. Just about perfect.

Pizza Land

24 Oneida Street

Oneonta, NY

(607) 432-3850

#5: Vescio's Franklin Hotel (Rome)

Franklin Hotel via Facebook

#5: Vescio's Franklin Hotel (Rome)

One of the Mohawk Valley's really great Italian restaurants. Yes, they are also known for their steaks, sandwiches, pastries, salads, etc. But the pasta dishes really check all the boxes for me. Whether I am ordering a full Pancetta with Chicken and Broccoli dinner, or maybe just an order of homemade gnocchi, it is fantastic. The interior is nothing spectacular to look at, and more than once the dining room has been elbow to elbow when I visited, but this is a great old school place that is now over 50 years old. Find this place...you will love it!

Franklin Hotel

301 James Street

Rome, NY

(315) 336-9974

#6: Ristorante Lucano (Rochester)

Ristorante Lucano via Facebook

#6: Ristorante Lucano (Rochester)

A nice way to end a day on the road. Classy, elegant, classic menu options, friendly hosts. Love the atmosphere with "Old World" style wall paintings, and they have a vintage bar that is a throwback to "the old days." I wholeheartedly agree with this recent his 5-star TripAdvisor review: "Patrons often describe Ristorante Lucano as one of Rochester's "hidden treasures." Here, the authentic recipes are prepared with heart and feeling, using imported Italian ingredients, crisp vegetables and fresh seafood. The Ristorante Lucano owners are proud of their heritage as well as their cuisine, as is evident in the friendly service and delightful, elegant atmosphere."

Ristorante Lucano

1815 East Avenue

Rochester, NY

(585) 244-3460

#7: Angees (Olean)

Angees via Facebook

#7: Angees (Olean)

One of this college city's beloved restaurants (now 75 years old). Delicious pizza, wings, burgers, nothing fancy, all casual. Pasta dishes are simply outstanding. Try the Tortellini Parmigiana which is tortellini tossed with their famous tomato sauce and topped with mozzarella cheese and baked to golden brown." Famous tomato sauce? Yes indeed, and you can take home a couple of jars of it here before you leave!

Angees Fine Italian Food

475 N. Union Street

Olean, NY

(716) 373-7070

#8: Mario's (Lake George)

Marios via Facebook

#8: Mario's (Lake George)

Maybe it is unfair that you might think you wouldn't find fine dining" in a tourist mecca like the main drag of Lake George. But, not true! Mario's fills its dining room all summer long. And after the season ends, the locals return to enjoy some of the best food you can find around the "Queen of American Lakes." A message from the owners on their website tells their story: "From Osso Buco to Steak Pizzaiola, Chicken Marsala to Chicken Scampi to Chicken or Veal Saltimbocca. Salmon Filet to Seafood Fra Diavolo, Mario's will have something to satisfy every member of your party. A fine wine menu is also available to complete your meal! So if you have never tried Mario's, now is a great time. If you already know Mario's, why not treat yourself and your family tonight? Cooking for you since 1954, your hosts, Paul & Nancy Nichols"

Mario's

429 Canada Street

Lake George, NY

(518) 668-2665

#9: Joey's Italian Restaurant (Syracuse)

Joey's via facebook

#9: Joey's Italian Restaurant (Syracuse)

In a city of many fine Italian restaurants, Joey's is my favorite. Always treated like a long lost family member, and the food is without equal (in my opinion) in the Salt City. Go for the Cavatelli Aletea. Consists of Cavatelli in delicate cream sauce with asiago cheese, prosciutto, baby peas, mushrooms and roasted red peppers From their website: "Joey's Italian Restaurant at Carrier Circle has been serving up fine Italian American cuisine since 1982. Located on Thompson Road North at Carrier Circle, with NYS Thruway Exit #35 close nearby, Joeys has an extensive menu with an array of choices from fresh made pastas and sauces, veal, beef, poultry and seafood along with wide range of appetizer and dessert choices. As the sign above the entrance states, "Two great restaurants under one roof," Pronto Joeys upstairs features a casual Italian American menu. Joey’s also offers catering services on or off premises."

Joey's

6594 Thompson Road

Syracuse, NY

(315) 432-0315

#10: Mama Lucia (Potsdam)

Mama Lucia via Facebook

#10: Mama Lucia (Potsdam)

I first became aware of Mama Lucia's when visiting our daughter over four years at State University of New York in Canton. There were not a lot of choices for Italian in the area (except for pizza places) but Mama Lucia's fit the bill. Good pizza, great Italian dished, casual atmosphere, easy on the wallet, and a friendly crowd of students and adults. I liked it here a lot.

Mama Lucia's

1 Constitution Street

Potsdam, NY

(315) 265-0475

#11: Brio's (Phoenicia)

Brio's via Facebook

#11: Brio's (Phoenicia)

One of the most beautiful little Catskill Mountain towns. Many people come here to eat at on e of America's favorite diners (Phoenicia Dine), but for a taste of Italian, I walk down the tiny Main Street and saddle up at Brio's for some top-notch Italian fare. A neat restaurant in a very cool Catskill village!

Brio's

68 Main Street

Phoenicia, NY

Ulster County

(845) 688-5370

#12: Cortese (Binghamton)

Cortese Restaurant via Facebook

#12: Cortese (Binghamton)

A Binghamton favorite for 75 years. Cortese joins Little Venice as two on my list of 12 favorite Italian restaurants. What is it about Binghamton anyways? This is one of the most elegant restaurants in Binghamton, superb service, and top notch food, from steaks to pasta.to seafood. A big "celebratory restaurant," in that for many this is a go-to place for weddings, anniversaries, and special days to celebrate with excellent Italian food. Even I am not sturdy enough to wade into the Cortese vs. Little Venice battle, so I surrender and put them both on my all-time favorites list.

Cortese Restaurant

117 Robinson

Binghamton, NY

(607) 723-6477

Filed Under: rome ny restaurants, Utica News

Categories: This And That, TSM

Comments

AROUND THE WEB

New York Dermatologist: Moles and Skin Tags Can Be Removed Just by Doing This

TRY IT TONIGHT!

Try 1 'Skinny Gummy' Before Sleep, Wake Up 2 Sizes Smaller!

HEALTH

This Will Be the Hottest Gift This 2023

HOTTEST GIFTS TRENDING

Put a Toilet Paper Roll Under the Toilet Seat at Night if Alone, Here's Why

SOGOODLY

70-year-old Engineer Designs World-famous Bra for Older Women

DOTMALLS

Get Your Tree Removed at a Price You Won't Believe in Oneida

TREE REMOVAL | SPONSORED

Nail Fungus? Just Drip This Common Spice to Kill It Instantly (Watch)

GENIUS LIFE HACKS

Hidden Signals You Have Mental Problems (Take the Quiz Now)

MENTAL HEALTH | SPONSORED

Diabetes is Not from Sweets! Meet the Main Enemy of Diabetes

HEALTH-REVIEW24

MORE FROM LITE 98.7

Magical Time- Book Santa Now For A Central New York Home Visit

Magical Time- Book Santa Now For A Central New York Home VisitMagical Time- Book Santa Now For A Central New York Home Visit

Comedian Pete Davidson Back In Upstate New York For 2 Shows

Comedian Pete Davidson Back In Upstate New York For 2 ShowsComedian Pete Davidson Back In Upstate New York For 2 Shows

Become The New Proud Owner Of This Classic Rome New York Bar

Become The New Proud Owner Of This Classic Rome New York BarBecome The New Proud Owner Of This Classic Rome New York Bar

Don’t Be Scared Buying This 2023 Utica Club Skeleton Stein

Don’t Be Scared Buying This 2023 Utica Club Skeleton SteinDon’t Be Scared Buying This 2023 Utica Club Skeleton Stein

Mayflower Chinese restaurant after 37 wonderful years of serving shut down closes Rome NY

WHAT IS THE OLDEST CHINESE RESTAURANT IN NEW YORK STATE?

Humpty Dumpling

XO Chicken Wings

Classic Open-Faced Dumpling

Rice Roll with Fried Dough

Fried Dim Sum Sampler

Chicken and Cabbage Dumplings

Latke Spring Roll

8 FRIENDLY'S RESTAURANTS STILL ENDURING IN UPSTATE NEW YORK

Johnstown

New Hartford

Cortland

Clifton Park

Troy

Liverpool

Queensbury/Glens Falls

Olean

TRAVEL WRITER PICKS HIS TOP 12 UPSTATE NEW YORK ITALIAN RESTAURANTS

#1: Little Venice (Binghamton)

#2: Ralph's Italian American Tavern (Albany)

#3: Santasieros (Buffalo)

#4: Pizza Land (Oneonta)

#5: Vescio's Franklin Hotel (Rome)

#6: Ristorante Lucano (Rochester)

#7: Angees (Olean)

#8: Mario's (Lake George)

#9: Joey's Italian Restaurant (Syracuse)

#10: Mama Lucia (Potsdam)

#11: Brio's (Phoenicia)

#12: Cortese (Binghamton)

AROUND THE WEB

New York Dermatologist: Moles and Skin Tags Can Be Removed Just by Doing This

Try 1 'Skinny Gummy' Before Sleep, Wake Up 2 Sizes Smaller!

This Will Be the Hottest Gift This 2023

Put a Toilet Paper Roll Under the Toilet Seat at Night if Alone, Here's Why

70-year-old Engineer Designs World-famous Bra for Older Women

Get Your Tree Removed at a Price You Won't Believe in Oneida

Nail Fungus? Just Drip This Common Spice to Kill It Instantly (Watch)

Hidden Signals You Have Mental Problems (Take the Quiz Now)

Diabetes is Not from Sweets! Meet the Main Enemy of Diabetes

MORE FROM LITE 98.7

Recent Posts

Comments

Subscribe Form