China Max originally opened its doors in 2003, founded by Tea and Wine Inc., a partnership led by Cindy and Bowan Wo, Judy Britt, Kong Cheung, and Larry Thoi. Cindy and Bowan Wo, who brought their passion for Chinese cuisine to San Diego after years of working in the restaurant industry. The restaurant quickly became a favorite for its high-quality dim sum and Cantonese seafood dishes.
In April 2020, a fire gutted the two-story restaurant, causing approximately $4.5 million in damage and sending two firefighters to the hospital with minor injuries.. At the time of the fire, COVID-19 restrictions had already forced China Max to shift to takeout service. The fire started in the soffit of the building outside of the restaurant, according to San Diego Fire Department investigators.
Despite original ownership ensuring patrons they would reopen, China Max is now under the stewardship of new owners Yingkang Lu and Xiaoxi Zhang, who bring a wealth of experience in modern Chinese cuisine. The pair previously operated the restaurant Kangxi Is Coming, located near China Max, and currently own Kanpai BBQ & Shabu and Taste of Hong Kong, both in the Convoy District. Earlier this year, the duo also opened Dumpling Bar in Encinitas.
The new owners have worked closely with original founder Cindy Wo to ensure the restaurant retains its authentic roots while also evolving to meet contemporary tastes. Many of China Max’s former chefs, managers, and staff members have been hired back and are ready to return, bringing continuity to the restaurant's legacy.
The new owners have worked closely with original founder Cindy Wo to ensure the restaurant retains its authentic roots while also evolving to meet contemporary tastes. Many of China Max’s former chefs, managers, and staff members have been hired back and are ready to return, bringing continuity to the restaurant's legacy.
The new China Max will feature a multi-million-dollar remodel that transforms the two-level space. The first floor will serve as the main dining area, while the second floor will accommodate banquets, weddings, and other celebrations for up to 300 guests. The restaurant has already begun hosting events and looks forward to opening to the general public.
In addition to classic Cantonese seafood and dim sum, the restaurant will offer an all-day dim sum menu, allowing patrons to enjoy freshly made dishes from morning through dinner. A new fine-dining tasting menu with wine pairings is also in the works, inspired by the owners' visits to renowned Chinese restaurants in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas.
Although an exact date is yet to be determined. China Max Seafood is slated to open in late December 2024 or January 2025 at 4698 Convoy Street, Suite 101, in Kearny Mesa. For more information, follow China Max on Instagram.
In addition to classic Cantonese seafood and dim sum, the restaurant will offer an all-day dim sum menu, allowing patrons to enjoy freshly made dishes from morning through dinner. A new fine-dining tasting menu with wine pairings is also in the works, inspired by the owners' visits to renowned Chinese restaurants in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas.
Although an exact date is yet to be determined. China Max Seafood is slated to open in late December 2024 or January 2025 at 4698 Convoy Street, Suite 101, in Kearny Mesa. For more information, follow China Max on Instagram.
