The Ontario community and Canada’s restaurant industry are mourning the loss of James Chiu, co-founder of the Mandarin Restaurant, whose life and work helped shape decades of shared dining experiences.
James Chiu passed away on April 29 at the age of 78 after a long battle with pulmonary fibrosis, a journey his family described as one marked by strength, positivity, and gratitude.
For many, Mandarin was more than a restaurant—it was a place of celebration, tradition, and connection. From birthdays to holidays, countless families across Ontario gathered around its tables, often unaware that behind the experience was a man deeply committed to creating spaces where people could come together.
Chiu’s story began in 1979, when he and his partners opened the first Mandarin location in Brampton. What started as a modest venture grew into a beloved institution, built on consistency, hospitality, and a genuine appreciation for customers.
Those who knew him remember not just his success, but his character—his dedication to employees, his appreciation for community, and his belief in bringing people together through food.
His passing leaves behind more than a business legacy; it leaves a lasting imprint on the communities he served and the countless individuals whose lives were touched by his vision.