“We’ve at least 30%, I feel, at least a third or more just from this construction,” Lim said.Ī question the restaurant is often asked is if they are still open, which concerns Lim since this construction project won’t be complete until 2024.

The gem has been around since before public housing was a thing and before World War ll.ĭespite celebrating 90 years, Lim said that Golden Star is facing major obstacles - one of which is the construction that shut down one of their main entrances. It’s a spot where familias come to celebrate graduations, communions and birthdays. “We can all experience a good meal together and that can bring down a lot of barriers whether you know how to speak to each other in English or Spanish,” Lim said. He eventually landed in San Antonio and opened up Golden Star in 1932. from China when he was only 13 years old.

Her grandfather, “Papa” Lim, immigrated to the U.S. Like I said, same faces, same waitresses, same food,” Flores saidīo Jean Lim is one of those familiar faces.

I never try their Mexican food, I never try anything else but fish and gravy,” Flores said.įish and gravy is a staple in this barrio that is over 95% Mexican American. “I come for the fish and gravy and honestly that’s all I’ve ever gotten. SAN ANTONIO - Golden Star Cafe on San Antonio’s West Side has been a go-to spot for Conrad Flores for nearly 40 years.

Golden star cafe