Valley Chamber, Lauretti Cut 'Red Lotus' Ribbon

The Red Lotus, formerly the Happy Family restaurant for 30 years, was officially welcomed Monday.

Mayor Mark Lauretti and Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce President Bill Purcell cut the ribbon with new owners Larry and Nia Wang, who live near the restaurant.

Lauretti said the same restaurant in the same location in 30 years is unusual, and that the site has a good track record.

Wang said he chose Shelton because it was ranked "most affordable" by Bloomberg News.

"We were so happy we found a nice community," Larry Wang said. "The community wanted and needed a new Asian restaurant. Nia and I put in a lot of love and energy."

"We hope it's going to be another generational restaurant," he added.

Lauretti, who used to own a restaurant, said the industry is doubly challenging, and 85 percent of restaurants don't last a year. But the location in the Shelton Square Shopping Center is has a record of success.

"The plaza's come a long way over the last several years," he added. 

Shelton is unusual because economic development continues despite the recession, which the mayor believes is not over yet.

In addition to welcoming the Wangs, Purcell noted that the Chamber recently awarded several long-standing businesses in the city.

Red Lotus offers Asian Fusion, such as common ingredients like lamb spiced with Asian herbs. The restaurant also served some its other dishes, included endive and chicken, a roll made of lobster salad and oysters. It also carries duck sliders on a special roll.

Wang used to own a larger restaurant in New York, and was a social worker who helped veterans in New York City for 20 years before entering the restaurant business.