The founder of Dragon-i, Gilbert Yeung Kei-lung, a titan in Hong Kong’s nightlife scene, is comfortably at home in Mr Cameron, the club’s renovated private room. Yeung, a music aficionado and collector, has adorned the room with art deco lamps, chandeliers from Parisian flea markets, upcycled pinball machine tables, and cozy couches to emanate a distinct retro cool ambiance.
Known for his courtesy, Yeung always aspired to create a haven for celebrities to relish good food, drinks, and music. His affection for music and nightlife, coupled with his desire to revitalize the city’s nightlife, led to the inception of Dragon-i in 2002. With walls graced by photos of numerous celebrities from film, music, sports, fashion, and Hong Kong moguls, Dragon-i quickly gained fame as a second home for the global glitterati.
Dragon-i also played a significant role in invigorating the lunch crowd, offering an all-you-can-eat dim sum lunch for HK$88, attracting customers by the droves. Yet, like many businesses, Dragon-i weathered challenges. The Covid-19 pandemic took a toll, compelling the club to reinvent itself.
Post-pandemic, Yeung is eager to introduce more live music, weekend family-friendly events, and establish a private members’ club. Renovations are underway for the dim sum kitchen, slated to reopen next year. He also advocates for more support for alfresco dining to keep Hong Kong competitive with locations like Singapore.
On a personal note, Yeung, once dubbed the “rebel”, has evolved. He prioritizes yoga, meditation, and a plant-based diet over partying, though he does indulge in an occasional night out. Dragon-i, in line with his lifestyle changes, introduced a vegan dim sum menu in 2019.
Throughout Dragon-i’s existence, Yeung has cherished memorable moments, including a visit by Spanish football club Real Madrid in 2003, a performance by British funk band Jamiroquai, and an intimate gig by American rappers Snoop Dogg and Dr Dre.
As for the club’s names, Dragon-i captured the East-meets-West vibe Yeung desired, while Mr Cameron was named after Yeung’s English teacher from his school in Devon, England, a person he holds fond memories of.
As we delve into the vibrant world of Hong Kong’s nightlife, figures like Gilbert Yeung stand as pioneers who have enhanced the city’s nocturnal scene and continue to adapt and evolve, shaping the future of entertainment.
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