Dear Mr. Yu:

Please know how sincerely I regret that I cannot join you this year for the 2007 Top 100 Chinese Restaurants awards ceremony. I am deeply honored by your invitation. The National Restaurant Association commends your commitment to this prestigious event and extends its warm congratulations to this year’s winners

One of the great strengths of the restaurant industry and its 12.8 million employees lies in diversity. The number of minority-owned restaurant firms is growing even faster than the restaurant industry as a whole and Americans continue to appreciate and demand diverse ethnic cuisine options. This year's winners should be commended for their contributions that continue to shape this growing and vibrant $537 billion industry.

The National Restaurant Association salutes today's winners and Chinese Restaurant News for their continued commitment to superior ingredients, presentation, guest entertainment and overall excellence. Best wishes for your continued prosperity.

Sincerely,