Staying afloat in Hong Kong’s food and drink scene is no easy feat. With steep rent prices, consumers travelling to Mainland China for affordable spending, and fierce competition between competitors, many local restaurants are bearing the brunt of high operational costs, leading them to make tough decisions. Unfortunately, after eight years of operating in Central, Uma Nota and Bedu by Meraki Hospitality are closing their doors on June 21. Founded by siblings Alex and Laura Offe in 2018, Meraki Hospitality has made its mark in Hong Kong’s culinary scene with its exciting eateries.
According to the hospitality group, the decision to close both restaurants comes after the challenges of rising costs and the changing landscape of Hong Kong’s market. The founders also believe this pause will give them time to reflect, recharge, and introduce innovative concepts.
“While closing these restaurants is bittersweet, the relationships and memories we’ve built together will always stay with us. We are deeply grateful to our community, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back with fresh ideas in the future.”, shared Alex.
As Hong Kong’s first Brazilian-Japanese restaurant, Uma Nota opened its doors in 2017 and paid homage to Brazilian botecos – a hangout spot that serves alcoholic beverages and snacks. Following its success, Meraki Hospitality also launched Uma Nota’s concept in cities like Paris in 2018 and Manila in 2024. As for the latter of the two restaurants, Bedu opened in 2018 on Gough Street, offering innovative and modern takes on classic Middle Eastern fare, quickly becoming a neighbourhood mainstay.
So, what’s in store for Meraki Hospitality? The sibling duo are currently preparing to unveil Sabai, an elevated Thai restaurant in Manila. While the hospitality group has yet to share details of future endeavours in Hong Kong, they remain hopeful to return to the city’s dining scene.
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