Delicious...Lee Southam: From Hong Kong to Home
In the heart of Southam, nestled on Market Hill, stands a culinary gem that has become a local legend – China Hall. Behind this well-known and beloved establishment is Lee, whose journey from Hong Kong to England has shaped not only the landscape of Southam but also the flavours that tantalise the taste buds of its residents.
Lee's story began at the age of 11 when his family decided to make the move from bustling Hong Kong to the picturesque town of Stratford Upon Avon. Two years later, the family found their home in Southam, where they opened the now-famous China Hall. The restaurant started with a modest eat-in seating area, a testament to the family's dedication to bringing authentic Chinese cuisine to the heart of England.
A unique aspect of Lee's journey is the late reunion with his father, who had moved to England when Lee was still a baby, to seek opportunities for the family and start his business. The family was finally united when Lee was 11, and together they embarked on a new chapter in their lives despite the challenges in developing relationships after such a long absence.
Lee's teenage years at Southam College were a testament to his strong work ethic. Balancing school, restaurant duties, and homework, he navigated the challenges of adapting to a new language and culture. With limited English proficiency upon his arrival, Lee learned the language swiftly, thanks to his schooling and interactions with customers at China Hall. While mathematics, a strongpoint from his Hong Kong education, served him well, other subjects posed a challenge without a firm grasp of English.
Taking the reins of China Hall from his parents, Lee continued to cultivate the restaurant's success, turning it into a local institution. His dedication to the business was matched only by his commitment to family. After marrying Angel, the pair began their own family. Lee's pride and joy, his two sons Daniel and Nicky, grew up in Southam. Daniel ventured back to Hong Kong for work, while Nicky now manages the family's latest venture, Cafe 16, a very popular café on Market Hill.
Although Lee considers himself semi-retired since relinquishing the take-away, he remains an integral part of the family's culinary endeavours. Reflecting on the sacrifices made during the early years, Lee recalls the rarity of holidays and the demands of running a food business. Working six days a week and balancing the books on his only day off, Lee and his family have poured decades of hard work, resilience, and passion into China Hall and providing for their family.
The story of Lee is one of triumph over adversity, a testament to the transformative power of dedication, perseverance, and love. As Southam continues to savour the flavours of China Hall and now Cafe 16, it is impossible to separate the town's culinary identity from Lee's remarkable journey – a journey that turned Southam into a home, a community, and a place where delicious food has been served with a side of heart for an incredible 50 years.
