We have advised Fire Horse Trading Limited on its acquisition of Gouqi, London’s award winning Chinese fine dining restaurant, out of administration via a pre-pack sale.
The transaction, implemented by joint administrators, Ben Stanyon and Anthony Davidson of Opus Restructuring & Insolvency, secures the future of the 78-cover restaurant, which will continue to trade under the Gouqi brand and safeguards all 30 jobs.
Gouqi was launched in early 2023 by former Hakkasan Group executive head chef Chee Hwee Tong and quickly established a strong reputation within London’s dining scene. However, the business, trading as Tong Dinner Limited, entered administration on 15 May amid the financial and operational pressures affecting the hospitality sector.
The acquisition provides a platform for Fire Horse Trading Limited to build on Gouqi’s established brand, ensuring continuity for both employees and customers while supporting future growth.
The Gateley Legal team advising Fire Horse Trading Limited was led by partner and head of restructuring advisory Matthew Brown with support from senior associate Oliver Wheeler.