Selectmen congratulate Kowloon as a “landmark” Saugus restaurant celebrates its 75th anniversary

By Tara Vocino

The Board of Selectmen congratulated the Kowloon Restaurant on celebrating 75 years during their Tuesday night meeting at Town Hall.

“It’s a landmark for our town,” Selectmen Chairwoman Debra Panetta said. “Besides the Saugus wings being delicious, we thank the Wong family for their dedication and generosity to the community over the years.”

Selectmen Corinne Riley congratulated the Wong family on building an empire.

Selectmen Anthony Cogliano said he’s had the pleasure of being close with the Wong family over the years. “Their business today is probably better than it has ever been,” Cogliano said. “It’s been amazing to see their operation and how they run it.”

Selectmen Michael Serino said the family and restaurant are both top-notch. “People always ask me, ‘Where’s Saugus?’ And as soon as you mention the Kowloon, everyone knows,” Serino said. “It’s made Route 1 what it is today.”

Selectmen Jeffrey Cicolini called the restaurant one of the mainstays in town. “We don’t have a lot of restaurants that have gone through multiple generations,” Cicolini said – they have set the bar on what it’s like to give back – adding that their fundraisers don’t go unnoticed.

State Representative Donald Wong said they’re proud to be celebrating the 75th anniversary, carrying on the legacy of his parents. “Thank you all for your support through the past 75 years,” Wong said Wednesday morning.

An anniversary gala and block party was set for Aug. 21.

Other business

Also, during the meeting, Highland Avenue resident Patrick Darrigo expressed concern over speeding and no parking signs facing the wrong way. “It’s only a matter of time before someone gets killed,” Darrigo said.

Cogliano said students often walk on residents’ lawns instead of sidewalks. Town Manager Scott Crabtree said it’s tough to narrow streets or sidewalks without eminent domain, citing disability concerns.