Friends of Nicholas “Wanchai Bear” Knight recently gathered at Lardos, Hang Hau, to toast the memory of the F&B professional. Younger brother David said they erected a banner with his portrait and the message, “Legend in his own Lunchtime”.
Nick died suddenly in his sleep on new year’s eve at his Nam Wai home, apparently of a heart attack, David said. “Nick had warnings of heart issues and was admitted to St Teresa’s Hospital in May because of problems with a heart valve.” He went on a vegan diet, but passed away at only 53.
After training as an apprentice chef at London’s Dorcester Hotel, Nick came to Hong Kong in 1987 to join Landau’s, then in the Sun Hung Kai Centre. Later he returned to Southend on the sea in the UK and opened his own restaurant.
In 2007 he was back in Hong Kong becoming a manager at Cafe Deco. About seven years ago he joined the Clearwater Bay Golf and Country Club rising to F&B Director of all three clubhouses. “Wanchai Bear” was well-known around Sai Kung as an affable conversationalist at watering holes such as Hebe One O One and Anthony’s Ranch. “He liked his wine,” David said, “played golf and was a social member at the Football Club. He had an old Porsche that he wouldn’t give up even when it died.” He was a handyman creating furnishings for the home he shared with wife Joy and son Milo.
The CWB club held a memorial for Nick with a big gathering of members turning out to reminisce and celebrate his memory. After cremation at Cape Collinson, Nick’s ashes were returned to England for a family service.
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