The Start

You could say that there was an inevitability to founding a food business, but it wasn't without a diversion when the City came calling.

Following a 6 year stint working as a financial analyst in the City, Paul decided to leave the world of investment banking to travel across South East Asia. Feeling tired and uninspired, he wanted to break away. Once on the road, his route was diverted due to a severe typhoon, resulting in a spontaneous and serendipitous visit to the bustling streets of Saigon. It was here that the seed for HOP Vietnamese was planted.

In between long hikes and motorbike rides, Paul was first introduced to pho from a busy street vendor; the rich, aromatic flavours, unlike anything he’d enjoyed before. The enthralling, intoxicating and relentless nature of a country that had experienced such hardship yet showed so much joy and warmth. The locals proudly shared secrets from their kitchens and offered a collective sense of community.

Having already identified and experienced the lack of fast, decent Vietnamese food for time-poor people lunching in London. Paul spent the rest of his trip drafting a business plan and working out what was needed to create a quick service, healthy and nourishing Vietnamese eatery in the City of London. Upon returning to London Paul set the ball rolling with competitor analyses, raising investment, food trials, and venue hunting.

The name HOP derives from ‘cái hộp’ meaning ‘box’ in Vietnamese and is taken literally with the invention of the ‘HộP Box’ - a complete meal with protein, steamed fragrant rice, shredded salad, pickled and green veg - a favourite of many!

2020 naturally slowed down Paul's ambitious plans to get fast and fresh Vietnamese food to hungry, busy people across London and beyond. Yet with a complete digital overhaul of the whole business, an introduction of a meal kit and further work within the community, things are progressing and the new style of HOP has been born.

Watch this space - there's plenty more to come.