The Rose Garden Restaurant was founded by Thomas Wong in the summer of 1977 at the former Union Square Mall in Union City. At that time, the restaurant had only 30 seats. Thomas personally greeted and waited on diners, while his wife, Camilla, prepared meals in the kitchen. Their children pitched in after school and on weekends, making it a true family endeavor. Through years of dedication and hard work, Thomas Wong not only supported his family but also provided opportunities for his children to attend college.

In 1989, the Union Square Mall was sold and demolished to make way for the New Marketplace Center. Thomas Wong seized this opportunity to relocate The Rose Garden Restaurant to Central Plaza, strategically positioned along the bustling Alvarado-Niles Road. This move marked the beginning of a new chapter for the restaurant. With the next generation of Wong’s taking over management, The Rose Garden thrived, earning a reputation for delicious food and warm, friendly service. Its growing base of loyal customers cemented its status as a beloved Union City landmark.

In 1995, The Rose Garden underwent a significant renovation to expand its dining room, giving it the inviting and iconic appearance. By the fall of 1999, the Wong family extended their culinary reach by opening a second location, ROSES Café, at the Union Landing cinema complex. For a decade, Union City was home to two cherished dining establishments run by the Wong family.

In 2009, the family decided to refocus their efforts on The Rose Garden Restaurant and closed ROSES Café. This decision marked a return to their roots, concentrating on the flagship location that started it all.

Despite facing challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, The Rose Garden Restaurant demonstrated remarkable resilience. The unwavering support of loyal customers and the Wong family’s commitment to quality helped the restaurant weather the storm and continue serving the community.

Today, The Rose Garden Restaurant stands as a testament to hard work, family values, and the enduring love for great food. For over 47 years, it has remained a cherished destination for authentic Chinese cuisine in the Tri-City area, a legacy that continues to thrive.