Amarillo, Texas is a city rich in history, especially when it comes to the famous Route 66. Known as the Mother Road, Route 66 once brought millions of travellers through Amarillo, also called the Yellow City, with its neon lights, classic motels, and unique restaurants.
One of the most iconic stops along this stretch was the Ding How Restaurant, a Chinese eatery that stood out not just for its food but for its unforgettable sign.
A Classic Stop on Route 66: Ding How Restaurant
The Ding How Restaurant opened its doors in 1957 and quickly became a popular spot for travellers driving down Route 66. It wasn’t just the Chinese food that made it famous — it was the odd-shaped neon sign outside the building that truly made it stand out.
Imagine cruising down Amarillo Blvd at night, seeing a bright, glowing sign calling you in for a hot meal. That’s exactly what many travellers experienced back in the day.
Even after the restaurant closed in 1995, the sign stayed up — dark and weathered, but still standing tall — a nostalgic reminder of Route 66’s golden era.
The Ding How Sign Disappears
But now, things have sadly changed. In October 2023, the building was still standing, showing signs of age, but the sign remained in place — a quiet tribute to its past. Fast forward to February 2025, and the building looks worse than ever — boarded up, covered in graffiti, and most shockingly, the iconic sign is gone.
Only part of the pole that once held the sign can be seen on the ground. It’s unclear exactly when the sign was removed, but somewhere between late 2023 and early 2025, it finally vanished.
Was the Sign Removed for Restoration?
Many locals and Route 66 fans are hoping that the sign wasn’t destroyed, but instead taken down for restoration. There’s no official word yet, but considering how much love and pride Amarillo has for its Route 66 history, there’s a good chance someone is trying to preserve and bring back this piece of roadside culture.
Why Route 66 Landmarks Matter
The Ding How sign was more than just a restaurant advertisement — it was part of a bigger story. Route 66 landmarks like this remind us of a time when road trips were king, neon signs lit up the highway, and family diners welcomed people from all walks of life.
Losing such signs is like losing a small part of history, but restoring them keeps that history alive for the next generation.