AMPANG: The almost 50-year-old Highway Ampang Yong Tau Foo restaurant is set to close its doors come Feb 8.

The restaurant’s proprietor Elaine Siow, 63, said that she wanted to retire after having run the business since 1976.

“I am getting older and it is more difficult for me to run the restaurant. It is also more costly to operate a business these days. I also have no intention of passing it down to other family members,” she said.

However, she said that she was open to the idea of anyone interested in buying over the business.

Previously located by the side of the MRR2 highway near the Flamingo Hotel, the restaurant then relocated to nearby Kuala Ampang less than a year ago.

The eatery is well known for its handmade yong tau foo — a Hakka dish comprising a mix of vegetables and tofu stuffed with fish paste — served in a dark and flavourful broth.

Siow said that the recipes were handed down from her mother.

She thanked the loyal customers who helped to sustain the business over the years.

“After nearly 48 years of business, we are retiring. We are so thankful for the many friends that we have made over the past decades.

“Our last day of business will be Thursday (Feb 8). We hope to see all of you before then. We appreciate all the support you have given us throughout the years,” stated a message on its website.