By Ivan Pereira
Vicky Chen said she had little concerns about managing her first restaurant, but the numerous Bayside visitors who have been frequenting China Bell since it opened last month has increased her confidence.
The 24-year-old Flushing resident said she wanted to give customers something new with her eatery, at 38-05 Bell Blvd. Although there are other Asian restaurants on the commercial strip, Chen said there were not too many that allowed customers to dine in and have a relaxing meal in a soothing atmosphere.
Bayside also had geographical advantages compared to other parts of the borough, according to the manager.
“The parking thing in Flushing is a problem. Here it’s more convenient,” she said.
China Bell has dishes from a variety of Asian cultures, including Chinese, Thai and Malaysian. From 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., costumers can get a lunch special that costs between $6 and $7 depending on choices that include sesame chicken, sweet and sour shrimp and Malaysian-style curry with chicken.
The dinner choices are also eclectic and include beef, seafood and even vegetarian and diet specials.
Chen said the goal with her menu was to give her customers dishes that provided the most natural taste and that were healthy.
“We do not use any canned products,” she said. “All of our vegetables and [ingredients] are fresh.”
The manager extended the organic touch to the restaurant’s decor. A massive fish tank greets customers as they enter the restaurant, and inside, wooden floors and walls surround the restaurant’s tables, some of which have a green covering.
Chen said she chose the color because it worked with her idea for the eatery.
“Green symbolizes health,” she said.
The Chinese immigrant has been in the restaurant business for six years working in different positions from cashier to waiting tables. After graduating from Baruch College, she decided to aim bigger and applied for the manager’s spot.
Chen said the response has made her happy because not only have customers returned, they have also brought their friends.
“It’s really fun to learn new things about the business,” she said.
Reach reporter Ivan Pereira by e-mail at ipereira@cnglocal.com or by phone at 718-260-4546.
