how to open a bar in hong kong

[chrismarchewka]

Hello I have a plan to open a bar in hong kong.

Do we need a license to sell alcohol in hk??

How much will be the rent for a good space in hk(central...long kwai fong...wan chai...)

Or also a space for sell.

If somebody can help me I will be very pleased.

[team building a]

Yes you do need a license

Rent is expensive!

There are a lot of bars so unless you have a really different idea i would give it a lot of consideration

Hello I have a plan to open a bar in hong kong.

Do we need a license to sell alcohol in hk??

How much will be the rent for a good space in hk(central...long kwai fong...wan chai...)

Or also a space for sell.

If somebody can help me I will be very pleased.

[KnowItAll]

Are you prepared to deal with the mafia (both official and unofficial). The official mafia involves inspectors of every possible nature and the unofficial.. well the less said the better.

The best approach would be to find a consultant who will help you through the licensing procedures, which are fairly tough.

Also, do keep in mind... unless you've been in the business, the rate of failure is VERY HIGH, specially in Hong Kong where huge amounts of your profit are going into landlord's pockets.

[chrismarchewka]

Yes I have a very special idea.It's why I want to open one.

But what about the rent i have already contact with a consultant but I'm waiting.

What about the mafia???Is it many in hk??ALso in hk island??I didn't know that.

And for the license??

If somebody here have a bar I will be very interested to meet him.

I think all the buisness are difficult to open in hk they have already so many...but if you have the good idea and you really want it you can!!

thanks to everybody for the answer.

[JAherbert]

I have done the design and licencing for bars and resturants and yup it is a mightmare. depending on your plans 3 or 4 different licences are needed, special conditions meet ie fire doors, ventilation, sprinklers, sewerage, toilets, etc.

Whatever you do - don't DONT pay any money, deposit or agree to lease any space until someone has checked the space. Of course ignore the nonsense from property agents.

rules change over the years, get tighter every year, so dont assume that a former bar will comply with latest regulations.

many bars fail, seen many close over the years. If you want to learn more feel free to ask.

Rent is expensive, ask an agent for viewing to get idea of opening "asking" rent and make a bid lower. Renting from the major landloards, Cheung Kong, Wheelock, etc. is much harder than from Joe blogs.

cheers,