A Green Haven in the City: Sushant's Journey of Food, Culture, and Resilience
In the bustling, fast-paced city of Hong Kong, where skyscrapers dominate and time seems to move faster than anywhere else, finding a slice of tranquility can feel like a challenge. But Rai Sushant, a passionate entrepreneur from Nepal and co-founder of The Jungle, has created just that—a green, lush haven for food lovers, blending authentic Nepalese flavors with a modern twist. Alongside his co-founder, Limbu Bikal, Sushant has shaped a unique business that stands out in Hong Kong's competitive restaurant scene.
Meet Rai Sushant
Born and raised in Nepal, Rai Sushant moved to Hong Kong in 2006, drawn by the city’s vibrant energy and opportunities. With over 10 years of experience working in bars and restaurants across Hong Kong, Sushant developed a deep understanding of the food industry. But it was more than just experience that motivated Sushant to start a business—it was a desire to bring a taste of Nepalese culture to the city he now calls home.
In 2019, Sushant took the leap and launched his own restaurant, The Jungle. However, the timing wasn’t ideal. Within months of opening, Hong Kong faced major disruptions due to protests, followed by the global COVID-19 pandemic. These challenges tested Sushant’s resilience but also sparked his creativity.
A Green Haven in the Concrete Jungle
The name and concept of The Jungle restaurant are inspired by the vision: to create a green, serene escape in the heart of Hong Kong’s urban chaos. “I wanted to create a safe, chill, green haven where people can relax in the middle of a fast-paced city,” Sushant explains. From the decor to the ambiance, the restaurant radiates a sense of calm, offering customers a unique sanctuary to unwind.
While the core of the menu centers on authentic Nepalese cuisine, Sushant has also adapted to the tastes of Hong Kong’s diners. For example, tacos were added to the menu due to popular demand, showcasing the restaurant's ability to balance tradition with innovation. However, dishes like momos (Nepalese dumplings) remain a cornerstone of the menu, reflecting Sushant’s cultural roots.
Building a Business in Hong Kong: Challenges and Triumphs
Starting a business is never easy, and for Sushant, the journey came with its fair share of hurdles. Finding the perfect location was one of the first challenges—after much searching, Sushant eventually took over a space from a friend. But the real test began in 2019, as protests and the pandemic drastically reduced foot traffic and tourism.
Despite these setbacks, Sushant’s love for Hong Kong and its community kept him going. Describing Hong Kong as his “second home,” he adapted his business model, focusing on community engagement and leveraging social media to reach new customers. Word-of-mouth recommendations from loyal patrons also played a crucial role in keeping the business afloat during difficult times.
What Sets Sushant’s Restaurant Apart?
In a city known for its diverse culinary scene, what makes Sushant’s restaurant stand out?
Authentic Nepalese Cuisine: While fusion food is popular, Sushant offers a taste of authentic Nepalese dishes that are hard to find elsewhere in Hong Kong.
A Relaxing Ambiance: The restaurant isn’t just about the food—it’s about the experience. The lush, green decor creates a calming vibe that contrasts with Hong Kong’s fast-paced environment.
Adaptability: From introducing tacos to experimenting with other fusion dishes, Sushant listens to his customers and evolves his menu to meet their tastes while staying true to his roots.
Looking Ahead: Sushant’s Vision for the Future
Sushant has big dreams for the future. While his current restaurant is thriving, his next goal is to expand to a more vibrant location. He envisions creating an authentic fine dining experience that exclusively showcases Nepalese cuisine, introducing Hong Kong to the full depth and richness of his homeland’s culinary heritage.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
For others looking to start their own business, especially those from ethnically diverse backgrounds, Sushant has some words of wisdom:
Stay True to Your Roots: “Food is love,” Sushant says, “and sharing it in its culturally authentic self is what makes it special.”
Adapt and Innovate: Challenges will come, but being flexible and listening to your customers can turn obstacles into opportunities.
Build a Support Network: Whether it’s through loyal customers or a strong marketing team, community support is invaluable.
A Message to the Community
Sushant’s primary mission is to share his love for food and culture with Hong Kong. His message to the community is simple:
“Try Nepalese food—especially momos! They’re a taste of my home, and I’m sure you’ll love them.”
So, the next time you’re looking for a place to relax, recharge, and enjoy a meal that’s both authentic and innovative, drop by Sushant’s green haven. In the heart of this concrete jungle, you’ll find not just great food, but a space built with heart, culture, and resilience.
Support local businesses, celebrate diversity, and discover the rich flavors of Nepal right here in Hong Kong. If you're interested in learning more about how we support these entrepreneur, reach out to us at info@guidefong.org. Stay tuned for our other blog posts too!
