Jam Hsiao's restaurant won't move after landlord dispute, legal action pending

Jam Hsiao's high-end Japanese restaurant, 'Watanabe,' will not be relocating as previously feared, following a contentious dispute with its landlord over lease renewal. The restaurant, co-invested by the singer and his wife, manager 'Summer' Lin You-hui, faced an abrupt demand to vacate after its five-year lease expired on August 18.

Initially, the landlord proposed a substantial rent increase from NT$150,000 to NT$230,000 per month. In a subsequent offer, the landlord inquired if the management team was interested in purchasing the property outright for NT$98 million. After negotiations, a compromise seemed to be reached, with both parties agreeing to a three-year renewal at NT$200,000 per month. However, just three hours before the scheduled signing, the landlord unexpectedly rescinded the agreement and issued a formal notice demanding the restaurant vacate within 18 days.

This sudden turn of events left Summer frustrated and scrambling to find a new location to ensure the livelihoods of her staff and the continuity of the restaurant's brand. She was actively searching for new premises in Taipei's East District.

However, the situation has now shifted. Summer revealed that after her legal team reviewed the communication records and evidence, they concluded that the prior intention to renew the lease held substantial legal validity. Following legal advice, the team has decided to halt their search for a new venue and entrust the entire lease dispute to the legal process. "I really can't be looking for houses on the street every day!" she expressed with resignation.

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I really can't be looking for houses on the street every day!