HOWELL – New China King and neighboring Firewood Grill now have the same owner.
Brighton-based entrepreneur Bing Li bought Firewood Grill in late July and has already started investing in interior and exterior improvements. Since early 2022, Li has owned New China King, a takeaway restaurant a few doors down.
The restaurant, at 1202 E. Grand River Ave., is known for its eclectic steak and pasta dishes. Li plans to keep much of the menu the same, but will defer to newly hired general manager Tom Maresco. The seafood pasta, spinach dip and spinach artichoke dip remain among the more popular dishes, Li said.
The restaurant was opened in 2015 by well-known restaurant operator and owner Tom Palushaj. The location was formerly home to Mr. D’s. Before that, it was the Howell location of The Nugget.
“We’ll look at what’s popular and (Maresco) will provide some samples (of new items) to our customers and see what they say,” Li said. “We’ll make changes if necessary, but keep what people like.”
Li’s success at New China King has been gratifying over the past few years, he said, describing his takeout business as consistently “active.” With Firewood having more employees and offering in-house dining options, Li is ready to take on the challenge of operating two different restaurants almost side by side.
His first investments at Firewood include a new metal roof, new cushions for the seating areas, and upgraded lighting and electrical systems. Li is even willing to show his clients the inside of Firewood’s kitchen upon request, as he strives to create an ultra-clean and comfortable environment.
“We put in a storm door in the back, which really helps us keep bugs out and keep everything clean,” Li said.
Li, who previously owned three restaurants in nearby communities, was content operating New China King as his only restaurant, but the opportunity to buy Firewood Grill appealed to him because of its proximity. He can essentially operate both restaurants without leaving the parking lot, creating further economies of scale and cost savings.
“As an investor, I think it’s a good (opportunity),” said Li, who has lived in Brighton for 15 years.
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He will likely close Firewood on Mondays next month, but plans to keep the hours open until 9 or 9:30 p.m. six days a week. If demand is there, he may open on Mondays in the future. Li currently has no plans to offer New China King’s Chinese dishes at Firewood Grill, but relies on his general manager for day-to-day decisions.
“We just want (guests) to feel comfortable and enjoy good food,” Li said. “I love it here and (providing a pleasant dining experience) is my way of giving back.”
— M. Alan Scott is a freelance writer for The Livingston Daily. Contact the editor at [email protected].
