News Summary
Zom Hee, a beloved Chinese restaurant in Seminole, FL, is honoring its nearly 40-year legacy. Owned by the Mui family, the restaurant has remained a local favorite since 1985, offering Szechuan, Hunan, and Cantonese cuisine. The family’s rich history in the restaurant business, dating back to Kenny Mui’s great uncle, highlights the establishment’s deep-rooted culinary traditions. Recognized as Florida’s best Chinese restaurant for 2023 and 2024, Zom Hee invites patrons to experience its flavorful dishes and nostalgic atmosphere.
Seminole Celebrates Nearly 40 Years of Zom Hee’s Culinary Legacy
In the heart of Seminole, Florida, at 9015 Park Blvd., food lovers and loyal patrons celebrate a culinary treasure that has been delighting taste buds since 1985. Zom Hee, a charming Chinese restaurant, is marking a remarkable milestone of nearly 40 years in the business, bringing the flavors of Szechuan, Hunan, and Cantonese cuisine to life.
A Family Affair
Owned and operated by the Mui family, Zom Hee has become a staple in the local community, spearheaded by Kenny Mui along with his brothers, Peter and David. The legacy of the restaurant began with their father, affectionately known as Mr. Mui, who still plays a role in the daily operations, supported lovingly by Kenny’s mother. This family-run establishment showcases a rich history that spans three generations, with Kenny’s children also taking part in this thriving business.
Roots Run Deep
The Mui family’s journey into the restaurant world is steeped in history. Kenny’s great uncle, Robert Moy, immigrated to the United States during World War II, where he worked as a translator. He eventually co-owned a restaurant in Washington, D.C. for a decade and even opened the iconic Golden Buddha restaurant in Sarasota during the 1950s. His connections extended to friendship with U.S. Air Force General Curtis E. LeMay, further embedding the family into the culinary fabric of America.
While the Mui family has operated several restaurants, including the Golden Phoenix and Sung Hee, Zom Hee proudly stands as the last remaining location. Kenny cherishes his family’s legacy, often referring to Uncle Robert as the “king of the restaurants.” This generational love for the business began with Kenny’s great grandfather, George Moy, who arrived in Chicago in 1890 and became a translator for the government.
Recognition and Nostalgia
Zom Hee has garnered recognition for its culinary excellence, having been named Florida’s best Chinese restaurant for two consecutive years, 2023 and 2024. This accolade from lovefood.com reflects the dedication and passion that the Mui family pours into their food. Kenny expresses heartfelt gratitude for the unwavering support of their loyal customer base, especially during the trying times of the pandemic when the restaurant adapted to serve take-out orders.
A Menu Full of Flavorful Choices
Patrons of Zom Hee can indulge in a plethora of delicious offerings. From crispy egg rolls to fluffy fried rice, the menu caters to a variety of tastes. Highlights include the spicy Szechuan chicken, the delightful General Tso’s tofu, and a range of innovative tofu-forward dishes. With a vintage-style lounge boasting a full liquor bar and potent Tiki cocktails, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
Personal Touch in Every Experience
One of the essential ingredients of Zom Hee’s success is the sense of family that permeates the restaurant. Bartender Rob Green has spent an impressive 30 years mixing drinks and providing customers with a warm welcome, thanks to Mr. Mui’s nurturing approach. Unlike many establishments, Zom Hee does not offer delivery services or partner with third-party delivery apps, instead encouraging customers to visit in person to soak up the ambiance and enjoy the food directly.
The Meaning Behind the Name
The restaurant’s name, Zom Hee, holds a special significance, representing the three facets of happiness: health, wealth, and longevity. This message is beautifully reflected in the vintage wallpaper, which still adorns the lounge, creating a cozy atmosphere for diners to enjoy.
Visit Zom Hee
Zom Hee welcomes guests with open arms from Monday to Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., Fridays until 9:30 p.m., and weekends from noon to 9 p.m. So whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer eager to taste the legacy, Zom Hee is a delightful spot that embodies over three decades of culinary tradition in Seminole.
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Additional Resources
- The Gabber: Zom Hee’s Family Legacy
- The Gabber: Tiki Drinks and Chinese Food
- iHeart: Florida’s Best Chinese Spot
- Gulf Live: Chinese Cuisine as Florida’s New Comfort Food
- Wikipedia: Chinese Cuisine
Author: STAFF HERE PETERSBURG WRITER
ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER The ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREStPetersburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in St Petersburg, Pinellas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, Localtopia, and SHINE Mural Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce and St. Pete Downtown Partnership, plus leading businesses in finance, manufacturing, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Raymond James Financial, Jabil, and Bayfront Health St. Petersburg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
