（Singapore, 14.08.2025）For hotpot lovers in Singapore, an era is coming to a close. After 13 years of serving up simmering broths and its signature theatrical service, Haidilao’s iconic flagship restaurant at CQ @ Clarke Quay is officially shutting its doors on August 31. This bittersweet news, which was confirmed to members via text message, marks the end of the brand’s very first venture into the Lion City.
The Clarke Quay outlet, which opened in 2012, was more than just a restaurant; it was a culinary institution. For many, it was the first introduction to the communal joy of Chinese hotpot, complete with the mesmerizing noodle dances and its famously attentive customer service. A spokesperson for Haidilao Singapore reflected on this legacy, saying the location “holds countless fond memories for our team and guests alike.”
A Strategic Pivot in a Challenging Market
While the closure brings a wave of nostalgia, it’s also a clear sign of a larger, strategic shift for the hotpot giant. The Clarke Quay shuttering follows a series of other recent closures, including outlets in Bedok, Pasir Ris, and Punggol. This period of consolidation comes after a phase of rapid expansion, showing a brand that is now recalibrating its strategy in a tough economic environment.
Haidilao has pointed to key business factors like labor costs, location, and rent as the primary drivers behind these decisions. The company is now focusing on optimizing its resources and enhancing its menu offerings across its remaining outlets.
The landlord, CQ @ Clarke Quay, also confirmed the mutual nature of the decision. A spokesperson thanked Haidilao for their “close partnership” over the years, noting that with the brand’s “strong presence across the island,” both parties “mutually agreed that it is time for Haidilao Hotpot’s #1 Store unit to be refreshed with a new tenant at the end of its lease.”
Broader Economic Headwinds in Singapore
Based on a report from The Business Times, Haidilao’s strategic adjustments reflect the wider pressures facing Singapore’s retail and F&B industries. A recent Savills Singapore report further paints a clear picture of a struggling market, with particularly soft demand for retail space in the central region, a trend most visible in areas like the downtown core where Clarke Quay is located.
Rising business costs and weak consumer sentiment have led to a decrease in demand for retail space. The island-wide retail vacancy rate rose to 7.1% in the second quarter of 2025, with the central region’s vacancy rate climbing even higher to 8.2%. The downtown core area specifically saw occupied space shrink by 75,000 square feet during this period.
Even with a slight rebound in central region rents, businesses are still under immense financial pressure. According to a Savills report, this challenging environment is driven by several factors.
The Singapore economy is projected to see muted growth for the rest of the year, a trend that could negatively impact consumer-facing sectors like retail and F&B. Additionally, retail sales are expected to remain flat due to cautious consumer spending, economic uncertainty, and a hesitant hiring climate, even with the aid of government vouchers. Lastly, a dip in local employment could reduce spending power, while a strong Singapore dollar encourages residents to spend their money abroad.
A Farewell Gift for Patrons
To show gratitude to its loyal patrons, Haidilao is giving away over S$800,000 in dining vouchers. Eligible members who supported the Clarke Quay outlet will receive a S$20 e-voucher with no minimum spend, redeemable at any other Haidilao location in Singapore.
Additionally, from August 18 to 29, diners at the Clarke Quay branch can participate in a lucky draw to win vouchers for Haidilao’s sister brands: Hi Hotpot and Hi Noodle.
For those craving their hotpot fix after the closure, the nearest Haidilao outlets are now at Marina Bay Sands, Marina Square, Bugis+, Plaza Singapura, and 313@Somerset.
The closure of the Clarke Quay outlet is a poignant reminder of the constantly changing F&B landscape. While it marks a strategic move for a company navigating economic challenges, it also leaves behind a legacy of introducing a beloved dining experience to a generation of Singaporeans. As one chapter closes, Haidilao is poised to begin the next, promising “diverse concepts and elevated dining experiences” for the future.
