Popular pizza chain "JACOMAX" to close historic Sheung Wan branch amid rent dispute

The wave of business closures continues as "JACOMAX," a beloved local pizza chain with four branches, announced on Monday the impending shutdown of its 14-year-old Sheung Wan store by the end of this month.

The Italian owner, Jacopo, who is also a YouTuber, shared the news on social media, expressing his disappointment over the failed negotiations with the landlord. He mentioned that despite their best efforts, reaching an agreement was not possible. In these times, he noted, there really was no other way.

Jacopo also hinted at further challenges ahead, disclosing that the chain’s Causeway Bay branch faces a lease expiration in August and that negotiations are currently underway to secure its future.

A bittersweet farewell

In his emotional post, Jacopo reflected on the Sheung Wan branch’s legacy, stating that the shop did not make them rich, but it helped raise his two children. He thanked loyal customers for their support over the years and invited them to take home mementos—such as plates or other keepsakes—as a way to preserve their memories of the restaurant.

Public backlash against soaring rents

The announcement sparked an outpouring of frustration from netizens, many of whom blamed exorbitant rents for the decline of Hong Kong’s dining scene. 

One commenter lamented that Hong Kong’s food and beverage industry is dying because of these sky-high rents. They noted that even successful businesses can’t survive, as the better they do, the more landlords hike the rent, speeding up their demise. 

Another questioned when landlords will wake up, pointing out that they already own the property, yet they keep crushing hardworking people trying to make a living.

About JACOMAX

Known for its creative pizza offerings—including a blue cheese and apple pizza and a self-proclaimed "pineapple Hawaiian pizza that would infuriate Italians"—JACOMAX has been a favorite among locals.

Jacopo, who runs the YouTube channel "Jacopo Only Friends," aims to be "the Italian who speaks the best Cantonese" and regularly posts Cantonese-language food reviews. His channel has amassed over 63,000 subscribers.