In Butte, Montana鈥檚 historic Uptown District, one restaurant has stood the test of time. The Pekin Noodle Parlor, founded in 1911 by Chinese immigrants Hum Yow and Tam Kwong Yee, is not only the oldest Chinese restaurant in the United States, it鈥檚 a living testament to the perseverance of immigrant dreams in the American West.
Today, the Pekin is still run by the same family, now in its fourth generation, and remains a treasured landmark and a symbol of cultural resilience in the American West. The Pekin has weathered the tides of history, from the decline of Butte鈥檚 once-thriving Chinatown to the shifting tastes of generations. Inside its original second-floor location, guests are welcomed into intimate, orange-painted booths lined with curtains. Offering warmth, privacy, and a sense of timelessness.
The menu is a celebration of Chinese American culinary tradition, featuring dishes like chow mein,聽chop suey,聽egg foo young, and聽sweet and sour pork, and comforting staples like fried rice,聽wonton soup, and聽crispy egg rolls. Every dish is served in generous portions, made with time-honored recipes, and delivered with warm, welcoming service with a side of history.
Set within what was once Butte鈥檚 vibrant Chinatown, Pekin Noodle Parlor is one of the last remaining landmarks of that vibrant community, and a proud part of the聽Butte鈥揂naconda Historic District. It鈥檚 more than just a restaurant. It鈥檚 a living tribute to the legacy of Chinese immigrants in the American West.