Pong's History: A Pioneer in Stockholm's Buffet Scene
In the heart of Stockholm, on the well-known Drottninggatan, a restaurant with a unique history has been around for over a decade. Pong, formerly known as Pong Buffet, is not just a buffet restaurant – it is an institution in Stockholm's dining scene. Here, founder Michael Zhan shares the concept and the exciting history of the restaurant.
Read more about Pong Drottninggatan here
In 2004, a small hideaway opened on Klara Tvärgränd in Stockholm. It served Asian, high-quality food and quickly became very popular – so popular that a few years later, the restaurant acquired a larger space on Drottninggatan and realized its dream: to create an Asian buffet in its true sense and make the restaurant a meeting place for family and friends.
Michael Zhan, the founder, explains that the concept was simple yet innovative: they offered a varied and flavorful menu where guests could choose what they wanted to eat – and how much.
– This was a stark contrast to the traditional à la carte restaurants and fast-food places that dominated the food landscape at that time. Interest from both locals and tourists quickly grew, and we understood that we had filled a restaurant gap that was needed in the city.
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Michael and his wife grew up in China and came to Stockholm in the early eighties. They wanted to offer Sweden the meeting point that is more common in China, where families and friends gather and enjoy really good food.
– When we opened our first restaurant, it was just a job, but we quickly realized that the concept could grow and become significant. Today, we are bigger, but we have retained the familiar feeling that we have always found very important.
Constant Pursuit of Development
Over the years, Pong has evolved and adapted to new trends and changing customer preferences. One of the most noticeable changes, according to Michael, was when the restaurant decided to change its name from Pong's Buffet to a shorter and more modern version: Pong. Michael explains that adding sushi, dumplings, Hot Pot, and vegan options to the menu over the years reflects the restaurant's development. Additionally, the restaurant introduced Korean BBQ to the menu, which has become one of the most popular meals.
– Pong is like a child growing up; you don't notice it in your daily life, but suddenly a new clothing size is needed, or a new interest arises – that's when you see that a lot has actually happened. Pong on Drottninggatan has become a flagship for the restaurant chain, which can now be visited at more than 20 locations in Sweden.
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Today, Pong is more than just a restaurant; it is a place where people gather to enjoy good food, pleasant company, and a unique culinary experience. The extensive menu offers delicious food from various kitchens around Asia. There is something for everyone – from sushi and grilled meat to vegetarian options and desserts. According to Michael, the chain will continue on the same path.
– We have never stopped and we will not do so either. We are keen on staying relevant and constantly update our menus with new dishes and flavors, so that our guests can find their favorites in the buffet or from our à la carte. I believe it is this commitment to renewing ourselves that has helped Pong maintain its position as a leader in the concept in Stockholm and Sweden.
Want to visit Pong Drottninggatan? Book a table here
PONG Buffet
Drottningg. 71 C
111 36 Stockholm
Phone: 08-204563
Email: info@pongbuffe.se
Read more and book a table at pongbuffe.se
