Kowloon City Thai eatery renews 10-year lease, defying closure wave

Wong Chun Chun Thai Restaurant — a long-standing fixture in Kowloon City — has renewed its lease for a massive 12,000-square-foot space, committing to a 10-year term with phased rent increases, despite widespread restaurant closures across Hong Kong recently.

The eatery remains optimistic about the area’s future, citing development potential in nearby Kai Tak, owner Mrs Poon told Sing Tao Daily, sister newspaper of The Standard.

Iconic Thai eatery’s multi-level venue at 40-42 Nga Tsin Wai Road will see rents rise progressively: HK$410,000 a month in the first three, HK$430,000 for the fourth to sixth year, and HK$460,000 for the remaining four years. 

The rates reflect a modest 3–7 percent overall increase.

While acknowledging current hardships in the food and beverage industry, Mrs Poon believed the worst time has past.

Though Kowloon City’s redevelopment has driven residents away and reduced footfall, the restaurant ruled out relocation.

“As an established local brand, we won’t flee when times are tough only to return when crowds rebound. We’ll stay and rebuild,” said Mrs Poon.

She anticipates the 15-minute-walk Kai Tak Sports Complex and upcoming residential projects will revitalize the neighborhood.

STAFF REPORTER