The little restaurant with a big legacy: Little Szechuan at 50

🥢 Little Szechuan, a longtime Tempe favorite just west of downtown, is celebrating a major milestone this week.

On Thursday, the beloved Chinese restaurant marks its 50th anniversary, a half-century run that has made it a fixture for local residents, downtown workers, and generations of college and high school students.

Founded by Ted and Swanie Lim in 1976, the restaurant began life as Szechuan Inn at Mill and Broadway before eventually settling into its current home near the northeast corner of University and Roosevelt.

Over the decades, the family-run spot has built a reputation not only for its comforting, approachable take on Chinese classics, but also for the warm, welcoming atmosphere that regulars often describe as one of the most charming dining rooms in town.

Little Szechuan’s menu remains anchored by longtime favorites, including its widely loved potstickers and kung pao chicken (pictured), alongside playful ASU nods like the Sun Devil, a maroon-and-gold tribute dish that reflects the restaurant’s ties to the university community.

That consistency has earned wide recognition as one of the Valley’s best Chinese restaurants from Phoenix New Times, KNIX, and KEZ in recent years.

In recognition of the milestone, Arizona officials are issuing a proclamation honoring the Lims and their five decades of service, noting the restaurant’s lasting impact on Tempe’s culture and community.

Representatives of Gov. Katie Hobbs and Rep. Greg Stanton are scheduled to present and read the proclamation at noon Thursday at the restaurant.