What’s Happening at This Beloved Chinatown Restaurant? You Won’t Believe It!

In a surprising twist, the well-known Sang Kee Peking Duck House in Philadelphia’s Chinatown remains closed due to an unusual predicament beneath its foundation. **General manager Henry Chow** has been forced to turn away customers ever since the restaurant shut its doors last Friday. The closure stems not from any issues inside the restaurant, but rather from an unexpected problem with an aging steam system located underground.

**Chow explained** that the steam pipes, crucial for powering the bustling Center City area, have presented challenges due to leaks. This resulted in steam rising to the surface both outside the restaurant and in its basement, creating **moisture issues** that have jeopardized the restaurant’s electrical system and plumbing.

According to **officials from the Philadelphia Office of Licensing and Inspections**, the establishment was temporarily closed to address safety concerns. Fortunately, a **makeshift vent** has been installed to help redirect the excess steam, although a long-term fix remains pending.

**Councilmember Mark Squilla**, representing the area, highlighted the need for collaboration between Vicinity Energy, responsible for the steam, and the Philadelphia Water Department to resolve the issue effectively. The Philadelphia Chinatown Development Corporation is rallying support to ensure the historic restaurant, which has served the community for 40 years, can bounce back.

As Chow remains hopeful amidst the turmoil, he acknowledges the support from local organizations and is eager to welcome back loyal patrons soon.

Sang Kee Peking Duck House Faces Unforeseen Closure: What You Need to Know

### Overview of the Situation

The celebrated Sang Kee Peking Duck House in Philadelphia’s Chinatown has unexpectedly closed its doors due to critical plumbing issues stemming from an underground steam pipe problem. The closure has been initiated to ensure safety, following reports of steam infiltrating both the street outside and the basement of the restaurant, which has been operational for four decades.

### Cause of Closure

General manager Henry Chow indicated that the aging steam system underground has caused significant leaks, leading to moisture issues that threaten the restaurant’s electrical and plumbing infrastructure. This challenge has necessitated the establishment’s temporary closure since last Friday.

### Current Status and Solutions

To address the situation, a **makeshift vent** has been introduced to redirect excess steam while a comprehensive long-term solution is developed. Despite this interim fix, the restaurant remains closed, reflecting on both immediate hazards and the push for repairs.

### Collaborative Efforts for Resolution

Councilmember Mark Squilla has called for a cooperative effort between Vicinity Energy, the steam provider, and the Philadelphia Water Department to resolve the ongoing issues effectively. Community support is also being organized by the Philadelphia Chinatown Development Corporation to assist Sang Kee in its recovery.

### Implications for the Community

Sang Kee Peking Duck House is a significant cultural and culinary institution in the Chinatown area, cherished by locals and tourists alike. The temporary loss of this establishment not only affects its loyal customers but also impacts the surrounding community, which relies on local businesses for economic vitality.

### What’s Next for the Restaurant?

While Chow remains optimistic about reopening, there are several factors to consider:

– **Timeline for Repairs:** The duration of repairs is uncertain, depending on the cooperation between relevant authorities and the successful implementation of a permanent solution.
– **Community Support:** Engaging with the local community and keeping them informed will be crucial for the restaurant’s recovery and return to normalcy.
– **Financial Considerations:** A temporary closure can have financial repercussions for the restaurant. The management may need to consider ways to engage their customer base and mitigate losses during this period.

### Conclusion

In summary, Sang Kee Peking Duck House’s closure highlights the complexities businesses face due to unforeseen infrastructural challenges. As efforts are underway to resolve the steam pipe issues, the community’s support will play an integral role in the restaurant’s future. Regular updates from the management will be key to keeping patrons informed and engaged as they navigate through this tough time.

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