For almost 25 years, Lang's Express was a mainstay on St. John Street in Portland, serving their beloved lunch buffet to a hungry work force during the work week. Lang's also was one of the last late night spots for visitors to Portland's Old Port who were looking to make one last dash for food before heading home.  Despite its popularity, Lang's Express closed in 2019 to the shock of many, leaving behind memories for many fans of the restaurant.

Google Maps
Google Maps
loading...

While many people visited Lang's Express over its two-and-a-half decades in business, there was one visit that remained above the rest. Lang's was famously visited by then-President Bill Clinton for lunch in 1996. He even sent a letter thanking them for a great meal afterwards which the owners cherished.

Getty Images
Getty Images
loading...

But times change, and seemingly so did the tastes of Portland and its frequent visitors over the last several years. The city saw two of its most established Chinese food restaurants close permanently. Valley Chinese on Forest Avenue shut down early in 2018, and shortly after, Lang's followed suit.

Facebook via Lang's Express
Facebook via Lang's Express
loading...

Business is business, and next door neighbor Dunkin' saw an opportunity in 2018. The St. John Street location had notoriously been a busy one, and Dunkin' was transitioning their look, logo, and drive-thru lanes, and needed extra space. They purchased Lang's Express, tore down the existing building, and built a brand new Dunkin'.

Google Maps
Google Maps
loading...

The lunch buffet is long gone and the late nighters still miss their 1am pu pu platters, but the memory of Lang's Express still lives on in the stories people have from when it was one of Portland's most popular Chinese restaurants.


 

19 of Portland's Oldest Bars and Restaurants That Have Stood The Test of Time

Before Portland, Maine become a trendy foodie town, there were still dozens of incredible restaurants that laid the foundation for what the city is today. Many have closed over the years but a handful have stood the test of time and continue to thrive today.

50 Most Popular Chain Restaurants in America

YouGov investigated the most popular dining brands in the country, and Stacker compiled the list to give readers context on the findings. Read on to look through America's vast and divergent variety of restaurants—maybe you'll even find a favorite or two.

More From 102.9 WBLM