Gerald Li, the co-founder of Leading Nation, the group behind Forty-Five, discusses his journey to becoming a major player in Hong Kong’s fine-dining scene. Forty-Five has emerged as one of the most impressive dining concepts in the city since the COVID-19 outbreak. Despite competing with larger entities, Leading Nation secured the project to establish three restaurants, a rooftop bar, and a private members’ club above the Landmark luxury mall in Central.
Launched in 2023, Forty-Five is a testament to Li’s dedication and hard work. The success of the venture reflects the growth of Leading Nation, established in 2016 by Li and Kevin Poon. The group has expanded its presence across various cities, including Tokyo, Manila, and Chengdu, demonstrating its influence in the Asian culinary landscape.
Despite his accomplishments, Li prefers to remain out of the spotlight, never actively seeking attention for himself or his ambitious projects. Reflecting on the challenges he has faced, Li reveals that the scale of the project caught him off guard as he initially underestimated its complexity. Juggling different parties involved in the project, such as designers, contractors, and furniture suppliers, was no small feat.
Li’s journey to success began in the nightclubs of Hong Kong. His involvement in organizing DJ parties and music promotion events led him to manage Edge, a popular nightclub on Wyndham Street in Central. Although he originally intended to pursue law, he found unexpected success in the nightlife and dining scene, steering clear of a legal career.
Embarking on a new chapter, Li ventured into the world of fine dining by assisting in the opening of a modern Japanese restaurant in Beijing’s central business district. Despite the initial momentum, the restaurant eventually faced challenges and closed its doors a year later. Undeterred, Li and his friend, chef Makoto Ono, decided to launch their own venture in Hong Kong, leading to the establishment of Liberty Private Works on Stanley Street in Central.
Each restaurant and concept that Li has been a part of has been a reflection of the different stages of his life. From his energetic nightclub days to his evolution as a restaurateur, each experience has played a crucial role in shaping his career. Li values the connections he has formed with his staff, emphasizing the importance of trust and mutual growth within his company.
Looking ahead, Leading Nation is set to expand beyond opening its own restaurants, taking on a consultancy role with the Kimpton Hotel and Restaurant Group’s food and beverage venues. Li acknowledges the need for a more cautious approach to growth following the rapid expansion the company has undergone. Despite the challenges, his resilience and dedication are evident in his continued pursuit of excellence within the culinary industry.
The inspiring story of Gerald Li is a testament to the transformative power of passion and hard work. From his humble beginnings in the club scene to his role as a key player in Hong Kong’s fine-dining landscape, Gerald Li’s journey serves as a reminder that perseverance and dedication can lead to remarkable success.