The News Herald (Willoughby, OH)
Imperial Dragon closes doors
Popular eatery ceases operations due to ‘family health emergency’
Imperial Dragon, a popular casual restaurant in Mentor that served a wide range of classic Chinese dishes and selections of American entrees, in addition to specialty drinks, has closed its doors.
The immediate news of the April 10 shuttering came through several posts on the eatery’s Facebook page, with patrons lamenting scant details of the abrupt closure through an exchange of unanswered questions.
The business, located at 8310 Tyler Blvd., also shut down its website.
Attempts to reach ownership/ management by The News-Herald were unsuccessful.
However, speculation regarding an issue concerning an Imperial Dragon principal — fueling rumors of the closure — was confirmed this week in the following social media posts:
“Dear valued customers….we regret to inform you that….due to a family health emergency, we are unable to operate normally and have decided to close the restaurant at this time….
“Thank you for your loyal patronage over the years and for making Imperial Dragon one of Mentor’s most popular restaurants. We wish you all the best for a happy and prosperous future….”
The establishment had operated for 22 years.
Details regarding future use of the space remain uncertain, officials noted.
“While it is always unfortunate when we lose a longstanding, successful member of our restaurant business community, like Imperial Dragon, Mentor’s restaurant scene remains extremely vibrant with over 170 options in a variety of cuisines from fast-casual to more formal venues,” said Kevin Malecek, director of economic development and international trade for the city.