Cover Nigel Chua and Chua Chwee Whatt (Image: Founder Bak Kut Teh)

Nigel Chua, son of founder Chua Chwee Whatt, said that in their 42 years of business, these few months have been the most tiring, trying and difficult

Like many dining establishments in Singapore that have been greatly affected by the coronavirus pandemic, home-grown eatery Founder Bak Kut Teh is in danger of closing permanently in the next two months if the business doesn’t pick up soon.

“We have been around for 42 years since 1978. This is the most difficult crisis we have ever met,” explained Nigel Chua, the son of founder Chua Chwee Whatt, in an open letter to the media. Since the outbreak, the team tried to keep the business afloat through takeaways and deliveries, but the sales have continuously dropped by over 85 per cent for the past five months.

Tatler Asia
Above Signature bak kut teh
Tatler Asia
Above Family meal set

Despite the government allowing dine-in customers back during phase two, Chua confessed that they continued to walk in to empty restaurants with no diners in sight. “We are reluctant to give up but we are struggling…I am appealing to everyone for your support so that Founder Bak Kut Teh can continue to serve you and future generations for many more 42 years to come.”

As the team’s way of saying thank you, the Founder Bak Kut Teh Hotel Boss, Bugis and Downtown East outlets are offering 30 per cent off their family set menus until August 17. Not only will you be tucking into their signature bak kut the (whose fans include pop stars Jay Chou, Jam Hsiao and Eason Chan), you’ll be able savour other tasty zi char dishes such as pan-fried marinated garlic chicken, and poached seasonal vegetables with soya & fried shallots. 

Topics