Letter to the Editor: Peking China's replacement should be family-friendly

Dear Editor:

If anyone was listening on Monday afternoon, a collective sigh of sadness could have been heard as Downey residents read The Patriot’s announcement [on Instagram] that our beloved Peking China restaurant will not be returning to Downey Avenue.

We had been hoping and waiting to see the reconstruction begin, and now we wait to see what and who will fill this almost sacred spot.

These will be hard shoes to fill. Peking was a go-to spot for so many; golfers, families, the business community, young people... all felt comfortable and could afford a great meal at a good price with the friendliest servers to greet and serve you. They really did "serve the community."

Those tasked with a replacement need to keep this community in mind when deciding who will serve us next. We need a family-friendly establishment to take its place. We certainly do not need another bar or adult entertainment venue.

Downey Avenue belongs to all of Downey's residents, not just those looking for nightlife. This is just one storefront, but it is the tipping point. Let's hope the decision makers keep all of us in mind when choosing. Another Asian-themed restaurant would make perfect sense.

Victoria Smith
Downey