Nostalgia Sells: Emotion vs Economics in F&B

In EP2, we explore how nostalgia and emotional connection are driving modern F&B. From vibe-led concepts and post‑COVID consumer shifts to the harsh realities of rent, labor, and margins in Hong Kong, this episode breaks down the balance between passion and profit.Podcast Chapters00:30 – Nostalgia as a Business Strategy  02:45 – Third-Party Nostalgia: Gen Z & Retro Culture  06:05 – Was Quality Better in the ’80s and ’90s?  07:46 – Gatekeepers vs. The Digital Era of Content  09:10 – Social Media’s Impact on Food & Drink Culture  10:50 – Breaking Down the Real Cost of Running F&B  13:40 – Hong Kong vs. Shanghai: The Rent Reality  15:08 – Is Hong Kong Really Bouncing Back? Pre-COVID vs. Post-COVID Consumer Behavior  17:50 – Experiential Dining & Emotional Connection  19:44 – Passion vs. Profit: When Numbers Don’t Care  20:45 – Why Hong Kong Still Works for Us