Goodbye, God’s Kitchen

【CMHnews Post】— A 37-Year Blessing Comes to an Ends in Tianjin

“God’s Kitchen,” the first Sichuan hotpot restaurant, a veteran icon of the catering industry in Tianjin, will officially ends its 37 years of glory. The restaurant’s registered brand name along with its associated goodwill assets, as well as the core trademarks will be auctioned publicly by Dingtian Auction House on November 10.

    Founded in 1988 by a local couple and now operated by their second-generation, “God’s Kitchen” derived its name from the motto “The customer is God.” At a time when the private sector was just beginning to take shape in China’s emerging market economy, “God’s Kitchen” was ahead of its time as a given name, in both aesthetics and business vision. The word “God” also reflected a clue of Western classic philosophy, carrying a hint of being blessed by heaven - as if destiny had smiled upon this humble eatery. Today, however, “God” is no longer permitted in Chinese trademarks, making the brand a rare and irreplaceable relic.

    The upcoming auction marks a new milestone for the dining industry in Tianjin and even beyond. The “God’s Kitchen” brand represents way more than just flavour and reputation - it embodies food culture, connections with generations, and part of the city’s culinary memory and emotional heritage. Over half of its patrons were long-time regulars: grown up neighborhoods, local gourmets, Sichuan & Chongqing migrated people, and even overseas super fans who returned annually just to dine there once. Such loyalty became the secret to the restaurant’s enduring success through changing times.

    The second-generation owner said the decision to sell the brand only was made to ensure its legacy would live on:“A brand’s vitality can outlast any physical shop. Even if the original restaurant fades away, people will still remember the name,” he said. “By auctioning its brand value, I hope people always remember that our locals crafted authentic Sichuan cuisine that brought feast and comfort to the community. I hope God’s Kitchen can continue its story - not end with its closure but begin a new chapter with those who cherish its warmth and flavor.”