Industry legend: Gilbert Yeung

The name Gilbert Yeung is synonymous with Hong Kong’s bar industry. 

The legendary founder of Dragon-i, Tazmania Ballroom and Cassio has come a long way since his early days of Hong Kong’s colourful nightlife scene. What began with visits to Disco Disco, Hollywood East and Club 97 in his 20s blossomed into a business empire that includes some of the city’s favourite haunts. 

For Yeung, there is no better place to set up shop in the nightlife industry than Hong Kong.

“The mentality, vibrancy and diversity of people in Hong Kong, mixed in with people from overseas, make Hong Kong’s nightlife scene world-class,” he says.

Read more: Hong Kong Living Bar Award winners 2020

After some 17 years of operation, his guest list is a who’s who of celebrities that now includes the likes of Michael Jordan, Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg, to name a few. But it’s more than just a guest list. Yeung also attributes his success to a group of mentors that have helped him forge a reputation for quality hospitality.

“Over the years I have learned so much from a lot of seniors in this industry – DJs, bartenders, promoters, club managers. Allan Zeman, Nichole Garnaut and Pino Piano are my mentors and have taught me so much,” Yeung says.

What Yeung wants to take out from his bars is simple – he only wants to see people enjoying themselves. 

“Seeing people smile and having fun every night is my proudest moment,” he says. 

As for the future for the nightlife scene in Hong Kong, Yeung reveals he doesn’t know what will happen, especially after the global pandemic – but whatever the challenge is, he is ready to take on.

Feature image: Graham Uden