Let's start from the beginning. What brought you to Hong Kong?
Hong Kong has always been one of my favourite cities in the world. I used to travel here frequently for business and leisure, and it always reminded me of Beirut-with its bustling streets, terrains and authentic eateries on narrow streets. I quickly grew an attachment and connection to Hong Kong, because of its familiar warmth and energy. I moved here 12 years ago.
How did you get into the restaurant business?
I have a deep attachment to my home country of Lebanon. One of the things we are most proud of as a country is our cuisine. Lebanese culture is deep and rich, and its cuisine resembles its culture and diversity. Sumac was always my favourite Lebanese restaurant in Hong Kong, and I wanted to invest in the restaurant and bring this passion of mine to the next level.
It's my mission to educate people about Lebanese cuisine and culture in Hong Kong, especially those that aren't familiar with it. Major cities like London, Paris and Melbourne offer a wide range of Lebanese cuisines, from cafés to high-end restaurants, and I am confident that Hong Kong can do the same.
Sumac opened in Hong Kong 13 years ago. Why did the team decide to open here in the first place?
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THE LAST WORD
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WOMEN AT THE WICKET
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TIME TURNER
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ROYAL RICHES
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IN IT TO WIN IT
Hong Kong freestyle swimmer Ian Ho, whose Instagram handle @Amphlb_ian playfully alludes to his aquatic prowess, competed at the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo and won silver in the men's 50 metres freestyle at the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou. This month, he will represent Hong Kong at the Paris Olympics. He talks to Tatler about making Hong Kong proud, life as a student and professional athlete-and why relaxing is the way forward
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
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INTRIGUE AND INTRICACIES
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Crafting a New Legacy
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A Lasting Legacy
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