When the Dragon Inn opened in Glenwood 45 years ago, there weren't many ethnic restaurants and there wasn't much competition. However, things have changed, and even national chains now are in the Chinese food business.

Glenwood resident Mike Foy loves competition. Foy competed in the Olympics as a Greco-Roman wrestler in 1988 and 1992 and won a silver medal. He's now a national manager for a pharmaceutical sales company and his wife, Tina, had been in the hospitality industry. The couple had long been looking for a restaurant to open.

"We wanted a place people could go for a meal to enjoy themselves," Foy said.

"There really are not that many places on the far South Side. Our broker told us that there was a nearby restaurant for sale, and we saw it was the Dragon Inn. We knew they had good food, but the business had closed and we wanted to keep it in this area."

The former owners had closed the eat-in part of the restaurant to the public in December and were offering only take-out until April. They planned to retire and close the doors forever.

"They were older and felt that when the business closed, it was time to retire," Foy said. "When they started, they didn't have to advertise or promote. I felt that the restaurant could be restored. It had always offered large portions and great food -- this isn't your watered-down version of Chinese food."

A complete remodeling project began. The bar area was opened and a 50-inch plasma screen, granite and hardwood floors were added. Even a logo that had been around forever was brightened and given a prominent position. The restaurant was also given a thorough cleaning. Foy also plans to add jazz and a late night menu.

But much has also remained the same. The new owners have retained all of the cooks, whose experience at The Dragon Inn spans almost 30 years. In addition, most of the staff is back, including the bartender and waitresses who have been around for more than a decade. The menu also remains unchanged, including the popular luncheon buffet.

"It's the history of Dragon Inn that sets it apart," Foy said. "Business today is all about service, meeting the needs of the customer, and we are doing that. This is a staple in the community, it was a gathering place of old friends -- and the food is great."

Dragon Inn

Location: 1843 South Halsted, Glenwood, (708)756-3344

Owners: Mike and Tina Foy

Number of employees: Six

When reopened: May 5

Type of business: Restaurant