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Mandarin Restaurant co-founder dies after battle with pulmonary fibrosis

He built Mandarin into a 29-location chain and was remembered by his family and company for his leadership and community support.

  • James Chiu, president and co-founder of the Mandarin buffet chain, died Wednesday at 78 following a battle with pulmonary fibrosis, having transformed a small Brampton restaurant into Ontario's most popular all-you-can-eat Chinese dining destination.
  • After immigrating to Montreal from Taiwan in 1963 and studying business at Concordia University, Chiu launched his first restaurant, Sweet N Sour, before moving to Ontario in 1979 to purchase the original Mandarin location.
  • Expanding through the 1980s, the chain grew to 29 locations across Ontario and now employs more than 3,000 people, becoming famous for its blue sky murals, panda-themed promotions, and free Canada Day meals.
  • Throughout 40 years of operation, Chiu and his team provided student scholarships and charity support, earning him the Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Medal Award and a lifetime achievement award from the City of Brampton.
  • Survived by his wife, three children, and seven grandchildren, Chiu is remembered for his "full and vibrant life," with his family stating his vision for exceptional food and genuine customer service will live on.
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23 Articles

North Bay NipissingNorth Bay Nipissing
+6 Reposted by 6 other sources
Lean Left

‘We have lost a true restaurant icon’: Ontario pays tribute to Mandarin co-founder James Chiu

Mandarin announced that president and co-founder James Chiu died peacefully April 29, following “a long and courageous battle” with pulmonary fibrosis. Here's how he's being remembered.

·North Bay, Canada
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Winnipeg Free PressWinnipeg Free Press
+6 Reposted by 6 other sources
Center

Mandarin co-founder and 'restaurant icon' James Chiu dies at 78

Breaking News, Sports, Manitoba, Canada

·Winnipeg, Canada
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CTV News broke the news in Canada on Thursday, April 30, 2026.
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