Long-standing Chinese-Vietnamese restaurant in South Austin shuts down after 35 years

Hao-Hao Restaurant Closes Its Doors After 35 Years of Serving Austin

In a city known for its ever-evolving culinary landscape, the news of Hao-Hao Restaurant closing its doors has resonated deeply with both loyal patrons and food enthusiasts alike. After 35 remarkable years of operation, this beloved Chinese-Vietnamese eatery located at 1901 W. William Cannon Dr. #115 has officially shut down, a significant loss for the South Austin community.

Hao-Hao Restaurant has been more than just a place to grab a meal; it has served as a homey haven for families and friends, offering generous plates at prices that even the most budget-conscious diners could appreciate. The fusion of flavors from Chinese and Vietnamese cuisine allowed patrons to explore diverse options in one sitting — think steaming bowls of pho, comforting egg drop soup, tantalizing shaking beef, and the ever-popular sesame chicken. This unique combination made it a go-to spot for diverse tastes and gatherings, embodying the rich tapestry of Austinites’ dining preferences.

As of November 2, 2023, the restaurant’s closure became official, with the announcement first shared in January 2024. It wasn’t just a piece of news; it was shared with a wave of nostalgia and heartfelt memories in the popular Reddit forum r/austinfood, where locals reminisced about their experiences and expressed their sorrow over the loss of a landmark eatery.

For those who are concerned that Hao-Hao is entirely gone, there’s a silver lining. The restaurant has a sibling location in Round Rock that has maintained the legacy, albeit under different ownership. Kevin and Linh Lieu Quach, who ran the South Austin venue, are part of a family deeply rooted in the local food scene. Kevin’s brother, Y Quach, originally established the Round Rock outpost, which has since changed hands after 2013. Now operated by Y and his wife, Nguyet, the couple has shifted their focus to their own venture, NG Café, which has recently been recognized as a nominee for the 2024 Neighborhood Restaurant of the Year at the CultureMap Tastemaker Awards.

The sense of community that Hao-Hao cultivated over the decades is evident in the heartfelt messages from long-time customers. Many frequented the restaurant for over two decades, forming bonds that extended beyond transactional interactions. In their retirement announcement, the Quach family reflected on their journey, expressing their gratitude for the loyal patrons who supported them through thick and thin. They emphasized that the restaurant was more than just a business; it had become an integral part of their lives, filled with precious memories and friendships.

The emotional farewell encapsulated a blend of sadness and fulfillment: “It is with bittersweet emotions that we announce our retirement from our family-owned and operated restaurant that has been our pride and joy since 1989,” they shared. The announcement was accompanied by family photos that showcased not only their personal milestones but also the community moments that had unfolded over the years.

For instance, one of the sentimental images included a snapshot from their son Sam’s wedding with his wife, Coleen — a celebration filled with the warmth of family and friends that the restaurant had come to symbolize. The Quach family also noted, “Throughout the years, we have had the privilege of getting to know each of you personally. Many of you have been with us since the beginning, becoming not just customers but close friends. The memories we’ve shared, the laughter, and even the challenges have forged bonds that go beyond business transactions.”

Responses from patrons echo this sentiment, with many taking to social media to share their experiences at Hao-Hao. The consistent praises of the staff’s friendliness, reliability, and the establishment’s welcoming atmosphere highlight what was truly special about this restaurant. They were not just serving food; they were fostering connections that enriched the community.

As Austin continues to evolve with new dining options, the closing of Hao-Hao Restaurant leaves an indelible mark on the city’s culinary history. While its physical space may be closing, the memories and the relationships forged within its walls will linger on in the hearts of those who experienced the warmth and flavors it offered. With a second location slated to open in Leander soon, the legacy of Hao-Hao lives on, albeit in a new setting, keeping the spirit of the original alive as they transition into a new chapter.