JKS Restaurants ends its ten-year partnership with Bao

JKS Restaurants has sold its stake in the Bao restaurant group, marking the end of a decade-long partnership.

The Singapore-based hospitality company Lo & Behold Group (TLBG) has acquired JKS’ share, signaling its intention to support Bao through its next phase of growth.

TLBG is set to become a partner starting this July. This marks the group’s first investment beyond Singapore, where it currently supports establishments such as the three-Michelin-starred French restaurant Odette, located in the National Gallery.

Bao was originally launched by Shing Tat Chung, Erchen Chang, and Wai Ting Chung (pictured above) as a Taiwanese street food stall. Since the opening of Bao’s first permanent location in 2015, JKS has collaborated closely with the trio, helping the brand expand to seven restaurants across London.

Bao’s original Soho restaurant, which holds a Michelin Bib Gourmand, has earned a reputation for its signature pillowy bao and the long queues of diners eager to try them.

Jyotin Sethi, co-founder of JKS Restaurants, described the experience of supporting Bao’s growth from a humble street food stall in Netil Market to “one of London’s most exciting restaurant brands” as an “incredible journey.”

Sethi added: “We wish the team every success as they embark on this exciting new chapter.”

Bao co-founder and chief executive Shing Tat Chung said it was the beginning of an “exciting new era” for the business.

“Bao’s success is thanks to the belief that Jyotin, Karam and Sunaina placed in us,” said Chung .

‘“Our partnership took us from a humble street-food stall to opening seven restaurants together, and we’ve learned so much from their relentless drive for excellence. As we look ahead to the next 10 years, we’re thrilled to partner with TLBG – looking forward to the energy and vision they’ll bring to our journey.”

Bao’s portfolio includes two noodle-focused restaurants and the dumpling house Bao Mary, while its karaoke-driven flagship, Bao City, opened last year.

Teng Wen Wee, managing partner at TLBG, said: “We’ve always believed in partnering founders with a point of view and the courage to express it. We’re honoured to join Bao on this next chapter, and together, we hope to continue surprising and delighting audiences across borders.”