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Case Study: Breathing New Life into Penang Malaysian Cuisine—Featuring Custom Walnut Tabletops

Case Study: Breathing New Life into Penang Malaysian Cuisine—Featuring Custom Walnut Tabletops

Philadelphia is a city of tradition, culture, and celebration—none more vibrant than the Lunar New Year in Chinatown, where thousands gather to dine and revel in the festivities.

This year, Penang Malaysian Cuisine, located at 117 N. 10th Street, took the opportunity to revamp their dining area. With a tight deadline looming, they turned to Hardtwood to create a refined yet welcoming atmosphere. We answered the call with 35 beautiful walnut tabletops, all finished in a warm chocolate tone.


Against the Clock: Shaping Raw Wood into Exquisite Tabletops With a Tight Deadline

At Hardtwood, we pride ourselves on balancing artistry with efficiency—and we certainly had to prove it when this project came with a strict five-day turnaround. After hand-delivering these tabletops all the way from Long Island, NY to Philadelphia, we were rewarded with a generous spread of delicious Malaysian Cuisine—a perfect way to celebrate a job well done. Here’s how we took raw wood and transformed it into stunning, functional tabletops—right on schedule:

  1. Sourcing the Rough Lumber
    We began by selecting premium walnut logs, prioritizing consistent grain and color. This step sets the foundation for both appearance and durability.

  2. Milling: Joining & Planing
    Once the lumber arrived at our workshop, we cut, joined, and planed the boards to ensure uniform thickness and a seamless surface. Precise milling is crucial for a flawless final product.

  3. Glue-Up & Curing
    After each board was meticulously aligned, the panels were clamped together for glue-up. Allowing ample time for curing helps the wood bond securely, ensuring the long-lasting strength of every tabletop.

  4. Sanding & Finishing
    When the glue fully cured, our team sanded the surfaces to a smooth finish. Then came the chocolate stain and protective topcoat—enhancing walnut’s natural beauty and safeguarding against daily wear.

  5. Final Inspection & Installation
    Each tabletop underwent a thorough quality check before our team installed them quickly and efficiently, giving Penang Malaysian Cuisine plenty of time to prepare for the Lunar New Year rush.


Why Walnut Was the Perfect Choice

The heart of this makeover was our Walnut Face Grain Wood Tabletops:

  • Authentic Warmth
    Walnut’s deep, natural grain pattern adds a cozy yet upscale ambiance to any space.
  • Chocolate Finish
    A protective coating that highlights the wood’s rich texture while standing up to high-traffic dining.
  • Long-Lasting Quality
    Walnut is a hardwood known for durability—perfect for busy restaurants hosting large crowds.

Curious about other wood species or finishes? Check out our Hardwood Samples Collection to find the perfect match for your next project. 


The Hardtwood Approach: Where Craft Meets Care

Our process is equal parts artistry and efficiency. Here’s how we brought Penang’s vision to life:

  1. Initial Consultation
    We spent time getting to know the restaurant’s needs, aesthetic goals, and Lunar New Year timeline.
  2. Wood Selection
    We handpicked premium walnut boards, ensuring consistent grain patterns and color.
  3. Smooth Finishing
    After careful sanding, we applied the chocolate finish that not only looks great but also protects against daily wear.
  4. Quality Checks & Installation
    Every tabletop underwent final inspections before swift, hassle-free installation—well before the holiday rush.

A Dining Space Transformed

  • Before: Functional but dated tables that didn’t match the restaurant’s vibrant energy.
  • After: A cohesive, polished dining area that welcomes both regulars and new visitors eager to join in the Lunar New Year festivities.

Take a peek at other case studies in our Hardtwood blog.


A Classic Philly Moment: Visiting the Rocky Balboa Statue

Once the installation was done—and with the Lunar New Year deadline safely met—our team couldn’t resist a quick trip to see the Rocky Balboa statue near the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Emblematic of the city’s spirit, Rocky reminds us that with enough determination (and a few steps!), you can tackle any challenge. Want to learn more about this iconic landmark? Visit Philadelphia’s official tourism site for details on the statue and other must-see spots.



Work with Hardtwood

  1. Tailored Solutions
    We work closely with you to understand your needs, style preferences, and deadlines.
  2. Artisan Craftsmanship
    Our skilled team ensures every project meets our highest standards of quality and design.
  3. Timely Delivery
    Whether it’s a holiday rush or a commercial launch, we respect your schedule and get the job done on time.

Ready for a Revamp?

If you’re inspired by Penang Malaysian Cuisine’s transformation—or simply eager to update your own space—contact Hardtwood today. We’d be delighted to discuss how our custom hardwood solutions can elevate your next project.

Hardtwood
Crafting Timeless Dining Experiences in Philadelphia and Beyond.
Return to Hardtwood Homepage to learn more about our services and how we can bring your vision to life.


Disclaimer: This post highlights Hardtwood’s work at Penang Malaysian Cuisine—117 N. 10th Street, Philadelphia—and includes a suggestion to visit the iconic Rocky Balboa statue.

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