I grew up enamored of the original location located at I-17 and Cactus. It was my family's go-to Chinese eatery in the 80's and 90's, we'd eat there every couple of months. Even though I moved out of the neighborhood, I'd hit Shangri-La for lunch every so often in the last decade while I was nearby on errands.
A couple of weeks ago, I saw a "Shangri-La" sign go up at the new location a few blocks from my home at 59th and Union Hills, and figured it was a long shot that it was related to the place I knew and loved. But last week I walked in and instantly recognized the hostess who was at the old location for at least 20 years. We had a brief chat and she explained that the owners of the old location sold the business to another family and have opened this new location.
I brought my son in for lunch today and was happy to see the same good food at bargain prices with awesome service. The only thing the new location lacks is the dated decor and the duct tape on the seats. The interior of the new location is modern without being too stuffy, with a hypnotizing bubble display as you walk in (you'll know it when you see it). Presentation of the food was better than I remember at the old place, but quality and taste are the same... even the great tea!