June Niskanen, originally from China, has been running the only Finnish restaurant in Beijing called Moi for over a decade with her Finnish husband, sharing cultural insights and challenges of operating in a foreign country.
In Beijing, China, home to more than a billion people, a unique Finnish establishment named Moi stands out as the country's only Finnish restaurant. Founded by June Niskanen and her Finnish husband, the restaurant has been operational for over twelve years, showcasing Finnish cuisine to the local populace. The couple's journey began after a decade of living in Finland, primarily in Oulu, where they discussed the importance of cultural exchange within their marriage.
June reflects on the contrasts between life in Oulu and Beijing, noting that while life in a smaller city could be easier, the cultural richness of navigating life in a mega-city like Beijing provides invaluable experiences. Their decision to move back to Beijing was based on a mutual agreement, emphasizing the importance of sharing their respective cultures. After more than ten years in China, June expresses contentment that her husband has embraced life in Beijing, highlighting the personal growth and shared experiences that come with such a significant move.
Operating a restaurant in a foreign land inevitably brings challenges, and June discusses the various complexities she faces. From sourcing ingredients to complying with local regulations, the nuances of running a foreign establishment can create obstacles. Nonetheless, her passion for showcasing Finnish culture and cuisine perseveres, and she remains enthusiastic about her venture in Beijing, eager to share her heritage with a Chinese audience.
