Our Story
Born from a Family
of Cooks.
Jade Garden was founded in 1998 by the Chen family, who brought their culinary heritage from Chengdu and Guangzhou to San Diego. What began as a small neighbourhood restaurant has grown into one of the city's most celebrated dining destinations.
Today, Executive Chef Wei Chen — the third generation — leads the kitchen with the same reverence for tradition and obsession with quality that his grandparents instilled in him as a child.
Our Philosophy
What We Stand For
Authenticity
Every recipe traces back to its regional origin. We never compromise on technique or ingredient quality.
Sourcing
Premium soy sauces from Jiangsu, chili oils from Sichuan, and fresh seafood daily from regional markets.
Hospitality
We believe dining is a celebration. Every guest is welcomed as family, every visit made memorable.
Sustainability
We work with local farms and sustainable fisheries to minimise our environmental footprint.
The Team
The People Behind the Plate
Wei Chen
Executive Chef
Master of Sichuan fire techniques, trained in Chengdu for 20 years before bringing his craft to San Diego.
Lin Zhang
Dim Sum & Pastry Chef
Hand-rolling dumplings and crafting traditional pastries since childhood in Guangzhou.
James Liu
General Manager
Ensuring warmth and care in every dining experience with 15 years in hospitality.
Recognition
Awards & Accolades
Michelin Bib Gourmand
Michelin Guide · 2025
Best Chinese Restaurant
San Diego Food Awards · 2024
James Beard Foundation Finalist
James Beard Foundation · 2024