The Chinese Restaurant in A Christmas Story: Bo’ Ling Chop Suey Palace
In the beloved holiday film “A Christmas Story,” directed by Bob Clark, one memorable scene takes place in a Chinese restaurant. The restaurant becomes a significant setting in the movie, adding comedic moments and memorable dialogue. Let’s explore the name and significance of this Chinese restaurant in the context of the film.
Bo’ Ling Chop Suey Palace
Appearance in the Movie
Bo’ Ling Chop Suey Palace is the name of the Chinese restaurant that the Parker family visits in “A Christmas Story.” Located in Hammond, Indiana, the restaurant serves as a refuge for the Parkers after their original Christmas dinner plans are foiled. The restaurant’s exterior and interior are faithfully recreated on screen, giving viewers an authentic dining experience.
Food Served: “Chinese Turkey”
During their visit to Bo’ Ling Chop Suey Palace, the Parkers are served a unique dish referred to as “Chinese Turkey.” However, it turns out to be a duck instead of turkey. This twist leads to a memorable scene as Mrs. Parker reacts with shock and horror upon discovering the duck still has its head intact. The chef comes to the rescue by promptly removing the head, allowing the family to enjoy their unconventional Christmas meal.
Significance of the Name
The name “Bo’ Ling Chop Suey Palace” carries a humorous backstory. Originally, the restaurant’s sign read “Bowling” because it was located near a bowling alley. However, the letter ‘w’ in “Bowling” malfunctioned, resulting in the sign displaying “Bo’ Ling” instead. The filmmakers found this accidental alteration amusing and decided to incorporate it into the film, giving the restaurant its quirky and memorable name.
Conclusion
Bo’ Ling Chop Suey Palace is the Chinese restaurant featured in “A Christmas Story.” Its appearance in the movie, the unique food served, and the amusing story behind its name make it an iconic and memorable element of the film. The restaurant scene provides comedic relief and adds to the overall charm of the holiday tale.
Sources:
- “Bo’ Ling Chop Suey Palace” on A Christmas Story House website. Retrieved from: https://www.achristmasstoryhouse.com/bo-lings-chop-suey-palace/
- “Bo’ Ling Chop Suey Palace” on A Christmas Story Wiki. Retrieved from: https://achristmasstory.fandom.com/wiki/Bo%27_Ling_Chop_Suey_Palace
- “‘A Christmas Story Live!’ Changed That Racist Chinese Restaurant Scene” on Eater. Retrieved from: https://www.eater.com/2017/12/18/16790098/a-christmas-story-live-chinese-restaurant-scene
FAQs
What is the name of the Chinese restaurant in “A Christmas Story”?
The name of the Chinese restaurant in “A Christmas Story” is Bo’ Ling Chop Suey Palace.
Where is Bo’ Ling Chop Suey Palace located?
Bo’ Ling Chop Suey Palace is located in Hammond, Indiana.
Why did the Parker family go to the Chinese restaurant?
The Parker family went to the Chinese restaurant because their original Christmas dinner plans were disrupted when their turkey was eaten by the Bumpus Hounds.
What food did the Parkers order at Bo’ Ling Chop Suey Palace?
At Bo’ Ling Chop Suey Palace, the Parkers ordered a dish called “Chinese Turkey,” which turned out to be a duck.
What happened when the Parkers discovered the duck still had its head?
When the Parkers discovered that the duck still had its head, Mrs. Parker reacted with shock and horror. However, the chef promptly removed the head, allowing the family to proceed with their meal.
What is the significance of the name “Bo’ Ling”?
The name “Bo’ Ling” originated from a fortuitous incident. The restaurant’s sign originally read “Bowling,” but a malfunction caused the letter ‘w’ to go out, resulting in the sign displaying “Bo’ Ling” instead.
Is Bo’ Ling Chop Suey Palace a real restaurant?
Bo’ Ling Chop Suey Palace is a fictional Chinese restaurant created for the movie “A Christmas Story.” However, fans of the film can visit a replica of the restaurant at A Christmas Story House and Museum in Cleveland, Ohio.
Does Bo’ Ling Chop Suey Palace appear in any other adaptations of “A Christmas Story”?
Bo’ Ling Chop Suey Palace also appears in the live television adaptation of “A Christmas Story” titled “A Christmas Story Live!” which aired in 2017.