McDonald’s (Ridout Tea Garden) Keeps the Burger Beat Going
After a last‑minute scare in December, the 32‑year‑old McDonald’s at Ridout Tea Garden (Queensway) gets the green light to stay open. The restaurant, a funky two‑unit spot by the pond, has been doing a trick of its own and is now ready to keep serving the local crew.
How the Franchise Got the Lease
- Singapore Land Authority (SLA) handed the lease for the 57,453.9 sq ft turn‑up to Hanbaobao, the Singapore licensee of McDonald’s. They bumped the rent to $40,000/month.
- Thirteen other food‑ and retail‑heavy hitters swapped in bids for a three‑year slot that could roll into up to 9 more years.
- Oddle Eats (the food‑delivery arm) topped the tender dance at $55,000, but Hanbaobao still grabbed the rent win.
- SLA’s scoring mantra? Half the decision looks at the “concept quality.” The other half weighs the price.
What the Old Lease Was All About
The place had been dancing with real‑estate developer Hayman since 2016, with the deal set to expire on December 31, 2021. McDonald’s had loudly declared in April that it would pack up and say goodbye at that point.
Fast‑Food Chain’s Twist on the Story
On September 17, a McDonald’s spokesman opened up with the good news: the site will continue offering regular and newbies alike. “It’s a privilege to have been part of many customer memories here at this iconic restaurant over the last 32 years,” they said.
The Pulse of Ridout Tea Garden
- About the site: The first store built in 1989 is a single‑story eatery next to a beloved pond. The second unit, now hosting a fresh Japanese buffet that opened Thursday, was once a KFC in 1981.
- Unconfirmed if McDonald’s will take up both spots.
- Local voices:
- Ethan Ong (24) learns from OS: “There’s no other place like it. Kids can still run around the pond, and I swing by on my way home or when my family needs a Sunday dinner.”
- Madam Kwek (73) reminisces: “I was a regular here when it opened. It’s heart‑warming to see it thrive. It keeps the greenery of Queensway alive.”
Wrap‑Up
Ridout Tea Garden’s McDonald’s is more than a quick‑fix stop; it’s a community staple, a nostalgic snack hub, and a testament to how commercial spots can survive while keeping local vibes intact.
