Mama Asian Bistro ends its 15-year run at the Promenade at Coconut Creek and teases a new concept set to open in June
Coconut Creek, Florida – After 15 years of serving up a mix of Thai specialties, sushi rolls, and steaming bowls of ramen, Mama Asian Bistro quietly closed its doors on May 25. Located at 4437 Lyons Road in the Promenade at Coconut Creek, the bistro announced earlier this spring that its lease would not be renewed, prompting owner and executive chef Mike Ponhuang to bid a heartfelt farewell to the community he’s called family for a decade and a half.
In a brief note adorning the restaurant’s storefront windows, Ponhuang expressed gratitude for everyone who dined, celebrated, and created memories at Mama Asian Bistro. “The past 15 years have been a joy for us,” he wrote. “It has been an honor to serve this community.” That sentiment echoed through every corner of the cozy dining room, where loyal patrons gathered for birthdays, anniversaries, and Friday-night sushi runs. From the spicy kick of pad Thai to the delicate artistry of nigiri, the menu had become a local standby.
Although the bistro’s shutters are now drawn, Ponhuang hinted that this is far from goodbye. In his note, he revealed plans to introduce a new concept—Mama Asian Kitchen—slated to open its doors in June. He stopped short of revealing the new restaurant’s location, leaving fans to wonder where they might find the next iteration of his culinary vision. Will it stay close to Lyons Road, or will Ponhuang venture into uncharted territory? At this point, only he knows for sure.
Locals reminisce about the belly-laughs and late-night ramen sessions they shared at Mama Asian Bistro. Over the years, the restaurant became more than just a place to eat—it became a cornerstone of the Promenade, drawing sushi enthusiasts from neighboring cities and offering a warm, welcoming atmosphere for regulars. As one diner noted, “It feels like the end of an era. You always counted on Mike for great food and genuine smiles.”
While the community grapples with the bistro’s absence, anticipation is already building for Mama Asian Kitchen. Patrons can expect a fresh take on familiar favorites, though details remain tightly under wraps. Ponhuang’s closing note didn’t elaborate on the new restaurant’s menu or style; instead, it focused on forward momentum, a reminder that in the restaurant world, every ending paves the way for a new beginning.
For now, the neon sign that once lit up the Promenade at Coconut Creek has been taken down, but the spirit of Mama Asian lives on in the memories of its customers—and soon, in whatever surprises Mama Asian Kitchen has in store.
