Three Hong Kong restaurants where husbands and wives work together, and how their relationships survive the pressures of the job
- We talk to three couples who work together in Hong Kong restaurants: Belon, Arbor and Chachawan
- They talk about why their relationships thrive under the unique pressures of their profession
Imagine working 16-hour days, six days a week. Imagine doing it in a notoriously stressful environment, one where you are constantly being judged by professionals and amateurs alike. Then imagine doing it all with your life partner.
Whether they are chefs or working front of house, some find their shared passion for the job and mutual understanding of the trade’s unique pressures strengthens their relationships.
In the intervening years, their résumés have included stints at restaurants including three-Michelin-star establishments The French Laundry in Napa Valley, California, and Coi in San Francisco. At Belon, head chef Matthew presents dishes that include a photogenic turbot with beurre Cancalaise – the fish covered in multicoloured “scales” crafted from root vegetables – while general manager Lauren oversees a ballet of service in the elegant dining room.
One of the keys to success in any restaurant is a harmonious balance between the kitchen and dining room and, as Matthew explains, marriage helps in this regard.