An eleventh-hour intervention revives popular Ryrie St store

Local business owners Steven and Jenny He breathe new life into beloved Ryrie Street kitchenware store Chef’s Essentials, saving it from closure

New Chef's Essentials owners Steven and Jenny He. Picture: Alan Barber

A popular Ryrie St kitchenware store was set to close earlier this year, until business owners Steven and Jenny He stepped in at the last minute.

The couple, who live in Geelong, recently purchased Chef’s Essentials which has operated for 25 years.

Chef’s Essentials manager Karrynn White said the couple wanted to put their own stamp on the business.

“Mr He wants to bring in his own commercial products – and be really competitive with pricing for local customers,” Ms White said.

Since taking over, the team has refreshed the store layout, upgraded stock, and boosted online shopping and advertising efforts.

New Chef's Essentials owners Steven and Jenny He with team members Josh Reale, Karryn White, Carol Armour and Jess Smith. Picture: Alan Barber

“We’ve come in and improved the store a little bit, and all the customers have noticed that”, Ms White said.

Locals have warmly welcomed the return of Chef’s Essentials, a longstanding CBD favourite. “It was really sad when it was going to close,” said Ms White.

But since reopening, “the response has been unbelievable,” she said.

Chef’s Essentials originally opened in 1999 on Ryrie Stand was run by Hugo and Laura Rugge.

Now with new owners and strong support from the community and staff, the business is focused on being competitive and community-focused so its doors can remain open.

Originally published as An eleventh-hour intervention revives popular Ryrie St store