Can this SoHo F&B site succeed where so many have failed? Yes but it depends on a lot of factors.
By HK Lawyer AJ Halkes Barrister-at-Law
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It’s been reported that Thai Pai Dong is taking over the corner site opposite Staunton’s, at the junction of the Mid-Levels Escalator and Staunton Street. One of my early food and liquor licensing clients under different leadership!
https://lnkd.in/gCsiyY5R
SoHo was ground zero for creative F&B in Hong Kong, as trailblazers like Jean-Paul Gauci, Tom Geotz, and others helped shape the identity of SoHo (it stands for SOuth of HOllywood Road); it always felt odd to me to be heading uphill and south at the same time.
Seeing a new F&B concept reported to be moving in is very encouraging as the site has been vacant too long. I’ve been saying that decent sites are now rare and this one was bound to go.
The concept (as reported) feels like a hybrid led by the iconic dragon-i … early dining morphing into music, perhaps dancing or something more dynamic later. But there are challenges, this cluster of streets (Staunton, Elgin, Aberdeen, and Old Bailey) has been a battleground for liquor licensing sale hours, music limits, early closing mandates and even when doors and windows must be shut.
So will the reported concept fit the neighborhood? Can it operate as intended? I’m not fully across it yet so let’s see, but “corner sites” should do very well, just look at Stauntons (as re-launched) and Bakehouse.
With smart marketing, a solid team, the correct licensing hours and low limits on business activity; this location has real potential to deliver a big win for a bold and innovative operator with a good product ; we just need one there operating in it.
Looking forward to seeing what unfolds!
If you need specific input regarding a strategic Hong Kong challenge or related legal matters in the HKSAR you can always DM me and check out my profile at https://www.ajhalkes.com
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