In the bustling Sydney suburb of Hung Hom, a unique culinary gem, Hong Kong Bing Sutt, stands as a testament to the rich heritage of Hong Kong cuisine. Owned by Jessica Chan Tin-wai and Kevin Cheung Chun-kwok, this restaurant is more than just a place to eat; it’s a bridge connecting the past and present of Hong Kong’s vibrant food culture.
Kevin Cheung, a dreamer who always aspired to be a chef, grew up helping in his family’s Hong Kong restaurants. Despite his parents’ advice to pursue a different career, Cheung’s passion for cooking never waned. After studying architecture and IT and working in banking, Cheung, along with his wife Jessica Chan, decided to channel their love for Hong Kong’s culinary scene into their own venture.
Their journey led them to open Hong Kong Bing Sutt in 2016 in Burwood, Sydney, an area with a significant Hong Kong and Chinese diaspora. The restaurant, initially occupying half its current space, later expanded and underwent renovations to connect with an adjacent unit offering cart noodles. They even opened a second branch in Eastwood, further cementing their presence in the community.
Hong Kong Bing Sutt is not just a restaurant; it’s a canvas painted with the couple’s memories and experiences. From the letterboxes bearing significant addresses to their daughter’s artwork and Kevin’s handcrafted design elements, every aspect of the restaurant tells a story. The décor, featuring Black & White evaporated milk tins, green mosaic tiles, antique lamps, and neon signs, evokes a sense of nostalgia, transporting patrons back to the bustling streets of 1970s and 80s Hong Kong.
The menu at Hong Kong Bing Sutt is a homage to traditional Hong Kong cuisine, with a focus on authenticity and quality. From the signature lai cha (milk tea) to comfort dishes like beef brisket noodles, fish ball soup, and seasonal specials like claypot rice, the restaurant offers a taste of home for many expatriates. The couple’s dedication to preserving the essence of Hong Kong’s culinary traditions is evident in their meticulous approach to recipe development and ingredient sourcing.
Hong Kong Bing Sutt has become more than just a dining spot; it’s a community hub where expatriates and locals come together to relish the flavors of Hong Kong. The couple’s commitment extends beyond the kitchen, with efforts to support their staff, many of whom are students or on working holiday visas, and their active engagement in community welfare during challenging times like the Covid-19 pandemic.
With their restaurants adorned with inspiring Chinese idioms, Cheung and Chan have created spaces that offer comfort, nostalgia, and a sense of belonging. Hong Kong Bing Sutt stands as a beacon of Hong Kong’s enduring culture and cuisine, a place where memories of the city are cherished and celebrated.
READ MORE: