Closure of Wok-in-House, long the go-to option for Chinese food in Johnson, meant the end of local, affordable Chinese food – at least until recently, when the establishment re-opened with a different name, Johnson’s Kitchen, and under new ownership.

Owner Annie Lu is no stranger to the restaurant business, having run establishments between here and New York City, including one in Hardwick and another in Randolph.

The Hong Kong native came to the U.S. through marriage and started cooking here. She runs the Kitchen with her husband Bill and their children. “I like to cook,” said the new owner when asked why she wanted to open yet another restaurant. As for favorite dishes, she hasn’t one, preferring not to have to choose between General Tso’s chicken, hot and sour soup, house fried rice, Singapore noodles, chow fun, and dumplings, to name just a few of the dishes she enjoys making.

But there’s more to this restaurant than what’s on the menu, according to Lu. “If people want a specialty order, I would do it,” she said, which is good news for those wishing to exchange traditional restaurant offerings for more exotic dishes. You just have to ask, she says, adding that she very much enjoys talking with her customers.

The menu is extensive, including all the old favorites with some new ones as well.

On the way out, this reporter ordered a General Tso’s Combo to go.

It wasn’t drowned in sauce, the chicken was still a bit crispy, and the rice was perfectly moist. Overall, it was one of the better orders of General Tso’s I have had in awhile. Nothing was too expensive, especially since the portion size in a combo should be enough for even an empty stomach.

The interior of the restaurant may look somewhat the same, but as far as I can tell the food has stepped up a notch and is certainly worth a visit on one of those nights when the tangy crunch of General Tso’s chicken, some dumplings or hot and sour soup becons. Johnson’s Kitchen offers both table and take-out service.

Located at 17 Lower Main, Johnson’s Kitchen is open Sunday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.