Lotus Of Farmingdale Celebrates Grand Reopening After Fire

FARMINGDALE, NY — Lotus Restaurant of Farmingdale celebrated its grand reopening and 36th anniversary on Thursday.

Lotus Restaurant, at 345 Conklin Street, has served Chinese and Japanese cuisine since 1988. The restaurant reopened in June after it was badly damaged in a fire almost three years ago.

"It means a lot to reopen our doors to the Farmingdale community, and we’re very grateful for their continued support through the years," owner Michael Chang told Patch. "We look forward to another 30 plus years of being a part of this community."

Lotus caught fire on the morning of Feb. 17, 2022. No injuries were reported, but the restaurant was gutted.

The repair and renovation process required "immense dedication and effort" from the entire Lotus team, Casandra Sabellico, general manager, previously told Patch. Structural repairs, a space redesign, kitchen update and bar enhancements all went into the rebuild.

Lotus announced additions to its menu, including a fusion of traditional and contemporary Japanese and Chinese dishes, along with a curated selection of cocktails and wines.

"Farmingdale Chamber of Commerce is honored to celebrate the restaurant’s reopening and the incredible milestone of 36 years in business with Michael Chang, and we wish Lotus Restaurant continued success," the chamber stated in a news release.

Lotus added a large saltwater reef tank in the middle of the restaurant during the renovation process. A piece of the charred wooden rafter from the fire now serves as a foundation to provide shelter for the fish and a base to grow coral, Sabellico said.

"This symbolizes how we strive to find the hidden blessing in everything, turn tragedy into beauty, and reflects our commitment to intentionality and honoring our history," she said. "We look forward to celebrating this new chapter with all of you."