Why we invested in Derby: OMOMO Korean Street Food and Bubble Tea

After launching her first business – So Good Kombucha – entrepreneur Lesley So followed this up by opening OMOMO Korean Street Food and Bubble Tea in Derby city centre earlier this year. Not only has the business enjoyed great success, but it has created jobs for people who are new to the city. Here, in her own words, Lesley explains how the support she received gave her the courage to invest in Derby.

I shared all about my dreams and love for Derby when I was lucky enough to be able to speak at the Dare to Dream slot at the Marketing Derby Annual Business Event in 2022.

I spoke about my conviction that businesses should and can be a force for good in bringing together communities, creating meaningful employment, and inspiring innovation.

This belief motivated me to start my first business – So Good Kombucha, and it led me to open OMOMO Korean Street Food and Bubble Tea earlier this year at 16 The Strand.

OMOMO specialises in authentic and delicious Korean street food, such as our signature Korean Fried Chicken with our in-house specialty sauces, Army Stew Fondue, kimchi pancake, bibimbap bowls, and more.

The hospitality industry is one that is notoriously difficult, and we’ve certainly had our fair share of challenges – but we’re also so grateful for the warm reception we’ve received from Derby.

We’ve been able to create jobs for people who are new to the city and looking to retrain as chefs, front of house staff, etc.

This has only been possible because of phenomenal support from our amazing customers.

Winning Best Newcomer at the 2024 Marketing Derby Food and Drink Awards and being named as a finalist in the Best International category has been a highlight for this year, and one that’s been incredibly motivating and validating for the team.

One of the reasons we’ve had the courage to invest in embarking on this journey is that we really feel like we’ve got the support of our landlord Trevor Raybould and his heart and vision for Derby.

I feel like there’s a great group of people working together to make Derby a better place to work, live, and do business.

We’re so excited to welcome all the new developments to the city – including the new city living and leisure developments at Becketwell, which is just around the corner from us, and the redevelopment of the Derby Market Hall.

The Strand is one of the most beautiful streets in Derby and we’re proud of be able to be a part of its resurgence and to see it vibrant and busy at all times of the day.