END OF AN ERA: Go Sun Chinese restaurant in Ballymena announces closure after nearly 60 years

Go Sun Restaurant, Ballymena

In a poignant moment for the local community, one of County Antrim’s oldest and most cherished restaurants has announced it will soon close its doors for the final time.

The Go Sun Chinese restaurant, a beloved institution in Ballymena since 1966, will cease trading in July 2025 after nearly six decades of serving the town.

Founded by the late Louis Sung and his wife Choi Lin after moving to Ballymena from Hong Kong, the Go Sun was not only a pioneer of Chinese cuisine in the region but also a symbol of cultural integration and hospitality in Northern Ireland.

The contribution made by Mr. Sung and his family to Ballymena, after arriving from Hong Kong to establish the iconic Go Sun restaurant, is difficult for today’s generation to fully grasp.

Pioneers of Chinese cuisine in County Antrim

Louis and Choi Lin in years past outside their Go Sun Restaurant

Arriving in Ballymena in 1965 following years of restaurant work across England, Louis Sung established the Go Sun the following year.

At the time, Ballymena’s culinary scene was limited to European offerings such as traditional hotel fare and the classic fish supper. The arrival of Go Sun brought a new and exciting dimension to local dining.

It is widely believed that the Go Sun was the first Chinese restaurant in County Antrim, marking the beginning of a transformation in the town’s food culture.

The Go Sun Restaurant in years past on Bridge Street, Ballymena

Over the decades, the restaurant went through refurbishments, but never changed as a firm favourite with locals and visitors alike, serving generations of families and introducing many to Chinese cuisine for the very first time.

A family and community legacy

Louis and Choi Lin raised their family—Stanley, Susan, Suzie, Sophie, and Stephen—within the Ballymena community, becoming a familiar and well-respected part of local life.

Beyond their restaurant business, the Sung family played an active role in the local and wider Chinese community. Louis Sung was a key figure in organisations such as the Chinese Welfare Association, supporting fellow immigrants and championing cultural representation across Northern Ireland.

Fondly remembered: Louis Sung

Following the passing of Louis Sung on 13 September 2023, the family has continued to run the business with the same commitment to quality and community spirit.

On Wednesday evening, 4 June 2025, Louis’ son Stanley announced the family’s decision to close the restaurant in four weeks’ time.

“Bittersweet” goodbye

In a heartfelt message to loyal patrons, Stanley Sung expressed deep gratitude for the decades of support:

“After 60 wonderful years of proudly serving the incredible community, it is with a heartfelt bittersweet announcement that we are closing the Go Sun in 4 weeks time.

“For over two generations of the Sung family, the people of Ballymena have accepted and welcomed us into their community.

Stanley with wife Karen

“We have been privileged and blessed to have served our loyal customers / friends as they chose the Go Sun to celebrate many of life’s milestones and to share their stories.

“We also want to thank our amazing staff who came and went over the years, working alongside the family throughout all the highs and the lows.

“As the doors of the Go Sun close and an era ends, we want to say a massive thank-you to all the people who have made it possible, for the wonderful support and mostly for all the fantastic memories.”

Community tribute

The closure of Go Sun marks the end of a significant chapter in Ballymena’s history—not just in terms of dining, but of cultural integration and entrepreneurship.

Generations of customers have enjoyed its warm hospitality, family-friendly atmosphere, and consistent quality, making it more than just a restaurant.

Best wishes to Stanley and the entire Sung family, who have become synonymous with great food, warm laughter, and outstanding service in Ballymena.

As the lights go down on Go Sun, the legacy of the Sung family’s contribution to the town will continue to shine brightly for years to come.