New catering outlets boost campus collegiality 

Dear Colleagues,

Have you dined at Lodge Bistro, City Chinese Restaurant or the Faculty Lounge yet? It's great that colleagues are already enthusing about these new eateries. 

Colleagues may remember when the former caterers located on the 8/F and 9/F of the Bank of China (Hong Kong) Complex (BOC) failed to fulfill the terms of their contract with CityU. Taking advantage of that crisis, and aiming for more sustainable operations, I asked that a management contract model be adopted for our new catering services. The University will guarantee some necessary earnings to the operators. If there is any deficit, the University will absorb the difference. We are the first among UGC-funded universities to do so. 
It is understandable for contracted caterers to concentrate on profits, but it meant that our former catering services were unreliable during difficult times. Under the new model, however, quality and service take priority because the University is committed to bridging financial gaps during tough times, such as the current pandemic. This model leaves caterers free to focus on a level of quality unmatched by other higher education institutions in Hong Kong. This is a necessary fringe benefit for our staff and faculty.

The stylish Lodge Bistro, located at HK Tech Lodge with seating for 80 guests, provides delectable western cuisine created by a chef from France. City Chinese Restaurant at the 8/F of BOC seats 320 and serves high-quality dim sum and other Chinese cuisine seven days a week. Meanwhile, faculty members and senior staff can enjoy a western dining experience at the Faculty Lounge at the 9/F of BOC where there is seating for 178. Endorsed by Senate, this facility matches our status as a world-class university. Moreover, hospitality for VIPs, events and banquets can be organised at these three facilities. 

Although I took the decision to switch to the new management contract model, several others helped immensely. I would like to thank the following colleagues and their teams: Mr Sunny Lee, Vice-President (Administration) (VPAD); Ms Maggie Chau, Director of Finance; Ms Sheena Shum, Associate Director, Office of VPAD, and the main project manager; Mr Chan Tsz-kin, Director, Campus Development Office; and 
Ms Brenda Lai, Director, Facilities Management Office.  

Your well-being is important. When the situation allows, please enjoy dining with your colleagues at these facilities.

Way Kuo
President and University Distinguished Professor