One more shot for Carnegie’s? Investors in talks to save beloved Hong Kong bar

Infamous Hong Kong party bar Carnegie’s could be saved days ahead of a planned closure if its owners can secure a deal with investors this month, its bar manager has said.

Duncan Smith, who has worked at the bar for 17 years and been manager for three, told the Post this week he hoped Carnegie’s would be saved if the owners could strike a deal, but would not reveal details about the potential investors.

The 40-year-old Hongkonger said he was surprised by the public outcry after the closure was first announced, adding he was pleased how many customers had said they wanted to get “the last dance on the bar”.

“After [the closure] became public knowledge, people began looking to invest to buy the place,” he said. “The bar will stay open while negotiations are ongoing. I hope if we can secure investors, then it will continue as it is, but if we sell it outright then it could be rebranded or changed in some way.”

Carnegie's owners originally called time on the 23-year-old business after being hit with a 20 per cent rent rise and growing competition from bars opening across Hong Kong Island.