One of the most unusual success stories among Chinese restaurants is that of the Imperial Dynasty restaurant opened by Richard Wing after WW II in a most unlikely place, Hanford, Ca., which is about half way between Los Angeles and Sacramento and not even located on the main north-south highway.  It was not your typical chop suey joint; in fact, some would say it wasn't really a Chinese restaurant so much as it was a forerunner of 'Chinoise" cuisine, Chinese food with a French accent.
    Its reputation attracted celebrities, political leaders, and dignitaries to this rural setting where one least expect such epicurean dining.  Richard Wing gave an interview on NPR when he retired and closed the Imperial Dynasty in 2006 that summarizes how his service in the Army as an aide to General George Marshall led to the development of this 5 Star restaurant.