The smell is enticing. The dimly lit but cozy atmosphere pulls in people with a promise of privacy while eating. The waitresses and hostesses are very sweet and welcome people inside with a warm smile that matches the warmth of the food at China Hill.
“The food is very homey and warm. The taste can’t compare to anything,” a regular, Sherie Lee of Ellsworth, said. Sherie Lee and her family go to the restaurant on a regular basis. The entire family enjoys the atmosphere and the food. They said that they believe that China Hill is the only decent restaurant left in Ellsworth, except for Pat’s Pizza.
China Hill of Ellsworth, Maine, can be found on 301 High Street at the bottom of a hill. China Hill was founded more than 30 years ago. It has been at three locations, but the most recent location is where the business started booming. William Lang, recent owner of China Hill, had opened Chopsticks in Presque Isle’s Aroostook Centre Mall. After several years with maintaining that restaurant, Lang then moved to Ellsworth and decided to buy out China Hill.
Since Lang’s ownership, China Hill has become a favorite of most Ellsworth residents. Community gatherings can be found in the restaurant, and most people living in Ellsworth know of William Lang due to his successful business.
Brandon Spencer, a continual customer, said, “I’ve never had a problem with the staff. Everyone is really—really—nice. The food is good, it’s decently priced for the portion size. It’s (China Hill) a good place to enjoy time with friends over a meal and a good atmosphere.”
China Hill is where most of the community goes to get food and talk to people they know. People who have been seen in the restaurant are always found with a smile entering or exiting the restaurant. China Hill is a favorite for community gatherings. There is a room in the back that groups may rent and decorate to their pleasing. This room is usually booked for birthdays and such during buffet hours.
China Hill offers more than just menu items. During the summer, when the business is more thriving than in the winter, every night it offers the buffet. In the winter, it offers the buffet Friday and Saturday night as well as all day Sunday because it realized that if it had the buffet up the same hours in the winter than they do the summer it will lose money.
The doors at China Hill open at 11 in the morning and close at 9 at night on most weekdays and 10 at night on Friday and Saturday.
“I only had China Hill for the first time this week and nowhere even comes close. The food comes out fast and the atmosphere is amazing. You’re welcomed with smiles and laughs all around!” Keisha Darveau, a Presque Isle resident, said
China Hill has become one of the places in Ellsworth where the community can come together and enjoy a well-cooked meal and a pleasant atmosphere.
