\n<\/p>\n
The biggest challenge, he said, is finding a space large enough to house the restaurant’s sprawling kitchen, which occupies three and a half adjoining stalls.<\/p>\n
He had already started viewing potential sites across Singapore, though he admitted suitable locations are hard to come by. He is also bracing himself for hefty relocation costs.<\/p>\n
Besides the expense of moving large kitchen equipment, Pang estimated the transition will cost at least five figures. The longer Dudu remains closed, the more he’ll have to spend paying his 17 staff a total of about $2,000 a day even though the eatery is not operating.<\/p>\n
“I can\u2019t just let them go. They’ve really put in a lot of time and effort with me,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
Some of his staff, particularly foreign workers, have also been worried about whether their work permits will be affected if Dudu is unable to reopen quickly.<\/p>\n
“I told them not to worry. I’ll definitely do my best to find a place because I don’t want to give up on this brand,” said Pang.<\/p>\n
Still, he’s choosing to remain optimistic.<\/p>\n
“Everything happens for a reason. Maybe it’s a good test to see how strong our brand is,” he said.<\/p>\n
“I believe it’s not about the location. It’s about the food and the people. If customers really like our food, they’ll still come and find us.”<\/p>\n
Dudu Cantonese Cuisine is at 29 Eunos Ave 6, Singapore 409619. Open daily from 4.30pm to 11pm. Last day of operations is Jul 26. For reservations, call or WhatsApp 8760 1111.\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n