Go Sun invites community to one final goodbye with farewell buffet and drinks

The Go Sun Restaurant, Ballymena

One of Ballymena’s most cherished family-run restaurants is set to reopen its doors for one final weekend this month, following an unexpected kitchen closure that brought forward the end of an era for the iconic Go Sun.

In a heartfelt update shared by Stanley Sung, son of founder Louis Sung, the long-standing Chinese restaurant confirmed that its kitchen is now closed due to “an unforeseen series of unfortunate recent events, and loss of our kitchen staff”.

“I apologise for the inconvenience this has caused you. Thank you for your understanding and support,” said Stanley.

However, in response to a wave of messages from loyal patrons and friends expressing a desire to say goodbye in person, the Sung family has announced a farewell weekend at the restaurant.

Final opening weekend: 27–29 June

Go Sun will reopen for the evenings of Friday 27th, Saturday 28th, and Sunday 29th June, allowing long-time customers and friends of the restaurant to gather one last time.

“Many regular customers and friends have been contacting me saying that they would like to pop in one last time for a farewell to the old place,” Stanley explained.

“My brother and I have therefore decided to open the restaurant on the evenings of Friday 27th, Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th June.

“We will provide a very limited selection buffet for those who fancy a small bite to eat. The bar will be open for those who just want to pop in for a farewell drink and a bit of craic.”

Community responds to end of a local institution

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

Established in 1966 by Louis Sung and his wife Choi Lin, Go Sun was the first Chinese restaurant in County Antrim and has been a cornerstone of Ballymena’s food scene for nearly 60 years.

The Sung family’s presence and hospitality left an indelible mark on the local community, and news of its closure has been met with deep appreciation and nostalgia.

The farewell weekend offers a chance for customers old and new to share memories, express their thanks, and celebrate the legacy of one of Ballymena’s most beloved eateries.

As the town prepares to say its final goodbyes, the Sung family remains at the heart of this emotional send-off—continuing to welcome their community with warmth, even as the curtain closes on an extraordinary chapter in local history.