By Shelley Winger
A longtime fixture in Redwater, Rainbow Wok & Grill continues to evolve while honouring
the history that has made it a local favourite for more than 40 years.
Originally opening in 1984 as a small café beside the courthouse, Rainbow has grown
alongside the community through several transformations over the decades. From its early
days as a café and popular karaoke night spot in the 1980s and early 1990s to its more
recent expansion into a modern restaurant and lounge, the business has remained a familiar
and cherished part of town life.
Many longtime residents still fondly share stories from Rainbow’s earlier years, especially
its lively karaoke nights and role as a popular gathering place. Those memories, the team
says, are a special reminder of how deeply rooted the business is in Redwater’s history.
Now operated by its third owners, the team says the restaurant has always felt like more
than just a business.
“Rainbow has been part of Redwater since the early 1980s, and we’re proud to carry that
history forward,” the team shared. “It’s something we’ve grown up with and into.”
Since taking over in 2019, the restaurant has expanded into the neighbouring bay, added a
patio, and reimagined the space for the next era while keeping the familiar Rainbow name
that means so much to the community.
Recent upgrades were inspired by the needs of local residents, with a focus on creating a
more flexible space for larger groups, families, and lounge guests alike. The newly
connected patio and expanded main dining area have already become popular features,
while the dedicated lounge and darts area continue to offer a welcoming social space.
The menu has also grown significantly, blending long-standing Chinese takeout favourites
with burgers, house-made appetizers, steak nights, Wing Wednesdays, buffet events, and
crafted cocktails. By combining classic comfort favourites with modern touches, the team
has worked to create a dining experience that appeals to both longtime regulars and first-
time visitors.
The team says community support has meant everything, especially after taking over just
months before the pandemic.
“This is home,” they said. “We live here, our family was raised here, and even our own kids
had their first jobs at Rainbow.”
Employing approximately 16 local staff members and supporting community groups
through sponsorships, raffle donations, and other local initiatives, Rainbow continues to be
deeply rooted in Redwater. The team says giving back to the community that has supported
them for so many years remains one of their top priorities.
Looking ahead, the team is also preparing for its 5th annual Mother’s Day brunch buffet on
Sunday, May 10, an event that has become a well-loved tradition and regularly draws
families from Redwater and surrounding communities. The annual brunch has become a
highlight for many local families and is expected to once again bring together generations of
residents for a special celebration.
As dining habits continue to change, the team says they remain committed to growing
alongside the community while keeping the familiar feel that has made Rainbow a Redwater
staple for generations.