Podcast 86: Everything F&B in Hong Kong

In EP3, we dive into the evolution of Hong Kong’s neighborhoods and the long game of launching a dream concept. From testing the waters with pop-ups and navigating post-COVID delays, to the raw realities of rent negotiations and finding the right landlord, Dominic from Roru Baru breaks down what it takes to bring an intimate, counter-focused dining experience to life in Wan Chai.Podcast Chapters00:00 – Introduction: Meet Dominic & the Vision for Roru Baru02:58 – The LA Inspiration: Bringing Counter-Focused Dining to Asia03:47 – Testing the Waters: COVID Delays and the Sleepyhead Pop-Ups06:39 – Location Strategy: Why Wan Chai Beats Central & Causeway Bay07:24 – The Rent Reality: Navigating Landlords and Revenue Share Models08:59 – Neighborhood Nostalgia: The Evolution of Ship Street & QRE11:18 – Is Hong Kong Bouncing Back? Feeling the Post-COVID Energy12:05 – Designing the Vibe: Uncovering a 1960s Granite Stone Wall14:01 – The Power of Partnerships: Shared Vision and Serendipitous Encounters

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

In this episode, we explore the realities of running an F&B business, from launching a concept and navigating cultural influences to tackling hiring challenges and shifting work attitudes. The conversation also touches on pursuing passion, redefining industry perceptions, and what it takes to lead and grow a team for the long term.  Follow us on Instagram @bagua.hk and discover more stories, events, and city buzz at www.bagua.com.hk.