Farmington Hills approves outdoor cooler for Mandarin Garden's reopening

During the Planning Commission Meeting held on April 17, 2025, in Farmington Hills, Michigan, a significant discussion centered around the reopening of the Mandarin Garden restaurant, which has been a local favorite since its establishment in 1982. The restaurant has been closed for six months due to a fire, and owner Jerry Chi presented a request for a variance to install an outdoor cooler as part of their recovery efforts.

The commission's deliberations highlighted the importance of the restaurant to the community, with several members expressing their eagerness for its return. Chi's request was met with procedural clarifications, as it was noted that the variance must be pursued through the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) due to zoning regulations concerning the cooler's placement near the rear wall of the property.

Commissioners discussed the implications of approving the site plan, which included conditions that all outstanding issues identified by city planners, engineers, and the fire marshal must be resolved satisfactorily. The conversation also touched on the unique zoning situation in Farmington Hills, where many establishments operate on individually owned lots rather than within shopping centers, complicating site plan reviews.

Ultimately, the commission voted unanimously in favor of the motion to approve the site plan, contingent upon the necessary variance being secured. This decision not only paves the way for the Mandarin Garden's reopening but also reflects the community's desire to restore a beloved dining option.

As the meeting progressed, the commission moved on to discuss other agenda items, including a planned unit development proposal, indicating a busy agenda ahead for the city’s planning efforts. The approval of the Mandarin Garden's site plan marks a positive step towards revitalizing local businesses and addressing community needs following the recent challenges faced by the restaurant.