Asian Bite changed ownership in 2024, but the restaurant has maintained its dedicated customer base in the years since. That’s why the community took notice when the family behind the local eatery closed the business to attend to a personal medical crisis.
At the end of May, Asian Bite head chef Gunawan suffered a stroke, leading to the restaurant’s temporary closure while he heals from his medical emergency. As of Wednesday, June 10, the chef was still hospitalized and seemed to be undergoing treatment, based on an Instagram post shared by Asian Bite. The post included a photo of Gunawan with his two sons, who appeared to lift his spirits during a hospital visit.
A GoFundMe has been set up on behalf of Gunawan and his wife, Apriyane Halim, who own Asian Bite on San Antonio’s Far Northside. Out of a goal of $30,000, the GoFundMe has raised more than $22,600 as of Thursday, June 11.
“Gunawan is the restaurant’s only cook, and with his hospitalization and recovery ahead, the restaurant is now temporarily closed,” wrote Sylvia Prabudy, who is responsible for the GoFundMe. “As they face mounting medical expenses, lost income, and the challenges of caring for their family, I am asking for your help.”
MySA reached out to Asian Bite via direct message, but we have not yet received a response. More recently, Apriyane Halim shared a message of gratitude in the comments on the GoFundMe page, thanking everyone who has shown support for her and her family.
“We are overwhelmed by the love and support our family has received. Every donation, share, message, and prayer means so much to us. Thank you for helping us through one of the hardest times in our lives. Your kindness gives us strength and hope each day,” Halim said.