The calligraphy on the cover of Red Dragon Spokane’s menu holds a special place in the hearts of the restaurant’s owners. It was painted by their grandfather John Chan, who founded restaurants in Seattle, Yakima, and Ellensburg in the 1930s and ’40s. John’s crown jewel was Chinese Gardens, a Spokane institution that opened in 1946 and eventually spawned Red Dragon. Chinese Gardens introduced many Spokaners to specialties such as almond chicken, which Chef Bojun Locke and his wife, June, now prepare in Red Dragon’s kitchen. Here, the couple builds appetizer trays, family-style meals, and banquet dinners featuring traditional Chinese fare, such as crab wontons and chow mein. To accommodate patrons with dietary restrictions, they also prepare vegan, low-sodium, and gluten-free dishes. On the second Saturday of each month, the East Diamond location hosts belly-dancing shows that charm and rivet, like a fairy-tale prince turned real-life handyman.