Originally established in 2003 by Tea and Wine Inc. - a partnership led by Cindy and Bowan Wo, Judy Britt, Kong Cheung, and Larry Thoi - China Max quickly became a local favorite, known for its high-quality dim sum and Cantonese seafood dishes. Cindy and Bowan Wo, who had years of experience in the restaurant industry, helped shape the eatery into a go-to destination for authentic Chinese cuisine.
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, COVID-19 restrictions had already forced China Max to shift to takeout service. Investigators from the San Diego Fire Department later determined that the fire originated in the building’s soffit outside the restaurant.
Despite assurances from the original owners that the restaurant would reopen, China Max is now under new ownership. Restaurateurs Yingkang Lu and Xiaoxi Zhang, known for their expertise in modern Chinese cuisine, have taken over the space. The duo previously operated Kangxi Is Coming, located near China Max, and currently own Kanpai BBQ & Shabu and Taste of Hong Kong in the Convoy District. Earlier this year, they also launched Dumpling Bar in Encinitas.
To maintain China Max’s legacy, the new owners have collaborated closely with original founder Cindy Wo, ensuring the restaurant retains its authentic roots while also evolving to meet contemporary tastes. Many former chefs, managers, and staff members have been rehired, bringing continuity to the revived establishment.
The remodeled China Max now features a multi-million-dollar renovation that has transformed the two-level space. The first floor serves as the main dining area, while the second floor accommodates banquets, weddings, and other large gatherings for up to 300 guests. The restaurant has already begun hosting events and recently welcomed the public for soft-opening hours, with a full soft opening scheduled for the weekend of March 1 and a grand opening to follow shortly after.
While China Max remains dedicated to its signature Cantonese seafood and dim sum offerings, it now boasts an all-day dim sum menu, allowing guests to enjoy freshly made selections from morning through dinner. A new section of the restaurant showcases dumpling-making in action, offering diners a behind-the-scenes look at the handcrafted process. Additionally, a fine-dining tasting menu with wine pairings is in the works, inspired by the owners’ visits to renowned Chinese restaurants in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas.
China Max Seafood is now open for soft-launch service at 4698 Convoy Street, Suite 101, in Kearny Mesa. For updates and more information, follow China Max on Instagram.
China Max Seafood is now open for soft-launch service at 4698 Convoy Street, Suite 101, in Kearny Mesa. For updates and more information, follow China Max on Instagram.
