Winner spotlight: Nelson Htoo of Club Rangoon

Club Rangoon is the debut launch for owner Nelson Htoo. Helmed by chef Karisa Cheque and mixologist Jack Byrne, the Burmese-inspired restaurant and bar may have opened its doors just weeks ago, but is already making headlines across the city’s uber-competitive nightlife scene. 

Located on Aberdeen Street in the heart of Central, Htoo believes the best way to experience a country is through its food and has vowed to serve up a gastronomic journey into the heart of Myanmar.

“A lot of people don’t know about Burmese cuisine, it’s not easily accessible internationally. I want to be the one to bring it to Hong Kong,” he says. 

“So far it’s been amazing, there’s been a lot of education about the menu and about Burmese cuisine. We want people to experience the history, culture and our own personal memories of Myanmar.”

Born in Yangon, but having lived in Singapore before relocating to Hong Kong three years ago, Htoo is a newcomer to the hospitality industry. After completing a masters in business management, he made a jump switch and dived head first into a new entrepreneurial food venture. 

“I’m a newcomer to the hospitality industry. My dad would always tell me to learn something new every day. This was something I applied to the process of opening Club Rangoon.”

The launch has been a personal journey for Htoo, reflected in the venue’s carefully curated interior design.

“We have family photographs of my mum and grandmother in the restaurant, I wanted it to be a very personal experience.”

Opening a new venue during the height of a pandemic has naturally come with its own set of challenges, but Htoo remains optimistic. 

“This pandemic has really tested the limits of creativity amongst entrepreneurs, demanding out-of-the-box solutions across all industries. It’s been a moment of reflection too for all. 

“We’re very grateful to be in a situation now that allows us to open and we are of course remaining vigilant during these times. The best way to learn is by just going out there and doing it.”

Club Rangoon, 33 Aberdeen Street, Central, 2503 3077

See the full list of Hong Kong Living Bar Awards 2020 here.

Feature image: Graham Uden