Legendary Wan Chai pub offers last chance to go Bananas at the Hong Kong Sevens
Luard Road landmark returns for Hong Kong Sevens week to help raise money for charity
Legendary Wan Chai watering hole Joe Bananas has reopened its doors just for the Hong Kong Sevens - and every drink sold will benefit an epilepsy charity.
Hong Kong Sevens week began with a bang on Saturday night when the Luard Road landmark - rechristened Purple Sevens - threw open its doors again, much to the delight of regulars and visitors in town for the biggest party of the year. It will close down again next Monday, the day after the rugby tournament.
"This is amazing. I thought we had lost this celebrated Hong Kong attraction during the biggest sporting event in town," long-time Hong Kong resident Roger Taylor said.
Joe Bananas, opened in 1986 by expatriate Scots Laura McAllister and Andy Neilson, had the distinction of being one of Wan Chai's oldest bars, but put up its shutters on February 23 after the owners lost the lease.
A Thai visitor in town for Hong Kong Sevens week was thrilled. "We heard Joe Bananas had closed down and this is a huge surprise. We can party on this week," said the man, one of the first to arrive on Saturday.
The Rugby Football Union is supporting the new owners of the premises, JB Live, in their collaboration with Enlighten - Action For Epilepsy.