Charmaine Hui Returns to F&B Scene with New Cafe Collaboration in Hong Kong

Singapore, Singapore Jul 14, 2026 ALN: Charmaine Hui has made a notable return to the food and beverage (F&B) scene, this time in Hong Kong, marking her re-entry into the industry over two years after closing her two cafe businesses in Singapore in 2024. Her journey back into the F&B world has sparked interest among fans and food enthusiasts alike, especially given her family background and previous entrepreneurial ventures.

The 29-year-old host and content creator is the daughter of the late Hong Kong veteran actor Benz Hui, a figure well-known in the entertainment industry. Charmaine's connection to her father, who had a long and celebrated career, adds a layer of intrigue to her business endeavors. Benz Hui's legacy continues to resonate in Hong Kong, and Charmaine's return to the F&B sector may be seen as a tribute to her father's influence and support. Benz Hui was not only an actor but also a beloved figure whose work spanned multiple generations, and his contributions to the arts have left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of Hong Kong.

In a recent Instagram post dated July 12, Charmaine announced her collaboration with the cafe Tea Express Bar by Jrink, generating excitement among her followers. She expressed her enthusiasm by stating, "Hong Kong friends! My bakes and I are finally back. Apart from desserts, we have seasonal drinks and cute merchandise for you too! Come visit us at K11 Art Mall L3 before our collab is over." This enthusiastic announcement not only highlights her passion for baking and culinary arts but also indicates her desire to engage with the local community in Hong Kong. The K11 Art Mall itself is a significant venue, known for its blend of art, culture, and retail, making it an ideal location for Charmaine's return to the F&B scene.

The collaboration features an enticing menu that showcases Charmaine's baking skills and innovative flavor combinations. Some of the standout items include a coffee walnut scone with hazelnut cream, a pandan basque cheesecake, and a matcha pandan cheese latte. Other offerings, such as Japanese black tea with mango sorbet and coffee topped with hazelnut milk foam and sea salt caramel crunch, reflect a blend of traditional and modern flavors that appeal to a diverse clientele. This creative menu is likely to attract both locals and tourists, eager to experience unique culinary creations. The incorporation of seasonal drinks and merchandise also indicates a strategic approach to enhance customer engagement and retention.

In addition to the food and drinks, Charmaine has also introduced a line of merchandise, including baseball caps and t-shirts, designed by a close illustrator friend. This merchandise not only promotes the collaboration but also serves as a tangible connection for fans and customers who wish to support Charmaine's venture. The products are available while stocks last, adding a sense of urgency and exclusivity to the collaboration. This strategy aligns with contemporary consumer trends where personalized and branded merchandise often enhances customer loyalty and brand recognition.

On July 11, Charmaine took a hands-on approach by visiting the stall and serving as the branch manager for two hours. During this time, she engaged with customers, prepared and served products, and even put up window wraps to promote her collaboration. This level of involvement demonstrates her commitment to the business and her desire to connect with her audience on a personal level. It also showcases her willingness to work hard and be actively involved in her venture, a trait that many successful entrepreneurs share. Such grassroots engagement can significantly enhance customer experience and foster a sense of community around her brand.

Charmaine's friends, including the well-known Hong Kong actress-host Maria Luisa Leitao, showed their support for her new endeavor by visiting the cafe. This support from peers in the entertainment industry not only highlights her social connections but also underscores the community aspect of her business. In the F&B industry, having a supportive network can be crucial for success, especially for new ventures. The presence of influential friends can also help in promoting the cafe through word-of-mouth and social media, further amplifying Charmaine's reach in a highly competitive market.

Previously, Charmaine operated two F&B businesses in Singapore: Cafe Bakeholic and a modern Hong Kong cafe named Juju. Cafe Bakeholic was her first venture, which she opened in Springside Green in December 2020. The success of this venture led her to open a second branch at Wheelock Place in 2021. Juju, which began operations at the same Wheelock Place location in 2022, aimed to offer a contemporary dining experience that resonated with the younger generation. Throughout her time in Singapore, her father, Benz Hui, was often seen waiting tables at her cafes, showcasing a familial bond that extended beyond just business. This connection not only provided emotional support but also served as a marketing point, endearing her cafes to customers who appreciated the family-oriented atmosphere.

However, in March 2024, Charmaine announced that she had sold her two cafes at Wheelock Place and relocated to Hong Kong, where her husband, Singaporean banker Shane Sim, was primarily based. This transition marked a significant change in her life and career, as she moved away from the familiar environment of Singapore's F&B scene. The decision to sell her cafes and move was likely influenced by both personal and professional considerations, including her marriage in December 2023 and the desire to start anew in a different city. Relocating to Hong Kong, a bustling metropolis with a rich culinary heritage, presents both challenges and opportunities for Charmaine as she seeks to establish her brand in a new environment.

Unfortunately, Cafe Bakeholic at Springside Green has also been permanently closed, although the specific date of closure remains unknown. This closure could reflect the challenges faced by many F&B businesses during the pandemic and the subsequent recovery period. The F&B industry has undergone significant changes in recent years, with many establishments struggling to maintain profitability amid shifting consumer preferences and economic uncertainties. The pandemic has accelerated trends such as online ordering and delivery services, which have become crucial for survival in the industry.

Charmaine's return to the F&B scene in Hong Kong through her collaboration with Tea Express Bar by Jrink comes at a time when the industry is gradually recovering from the aftereffects of the pandemic. As businesses adapt to new norms and consumer behavior, innovative collaborations and unique offerings can help attract customers and create memorable experiences. The success of such collaborations often hinges on understanding local tastes and preferences, which Charmaine seems to be embracing with her carefully curated menu.

In conclusion, Charmaine Hui's re-entry into the F&B scene in Hong Kong represents not only a personal comeback but also a broader narrative about resilience and adaptation in the culinary world. Her background, previous experiences, and current collaborations reflect the complexities of navigating the F&B industry, especially in a vibrant and competitive market like Hong Kong. As she embarks on this new chapter, it will be interesting to see how her journey unfolds and what impact her offerings will have on the local food culture. Charmaine's story serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, illustrating the importance of passion, community engagement, and adaptability in achieving success in the ever-evolving world of food and beverage.