London Chinese restaurant owner Amy Poon on keeping things steamy at her new venture
With open flames banned in the 18th-century building overlooking the Thames that houses Poon’s at Somerset House, Poon had to get creative
Opening any restaurant is a huge undertaking, but launching in Somerset House, an 18th-century historic building overlooking the River Thames in London, comes with its own set of challenges.
“Basically, you can barely breathe in the building without asking permission,” jokes culinary entrepreneur Amy Poon, who launched Poon’s at Somerset House on November 5.
The issue had to be resolved by meticulously drying the space out and sealing up leaks, which in part led to pushing the opening back two months – to November 5 – a date approved by Poon’s mother Cecilia, who had the restaurant checked over by a feng shui master.
It is a new endeavour for Poon, the founder of classic Chinese condiment brand Poon’s London. But, while she may not have experience when it comes to opening a restaurant, she has food and hospitality in her blood.