From Darts to Dim Sum: Justin Hood‘s Unexpected Path to Restaurant Ownership
Justin Hood is currently making waves at the World Darts Championship, but his ambitions extend far beyond the oche. For over a decade,this rising darts star has harbored a surprising dream: opening a Chinese restaurant. Now, after a series of impressive victories, that dream is rapidly becoming a reality.
Hood recently defeated 11th seed Josh Rock, propelling him into the last eight at Alexandra Palace. Following the win, he confidently stated he believes the time is right to pursue his culinary passion. He plans to begin exploring options after the conclusion of the tournament.
A Dramatic Career Shift & Rising Stakes
Hood’s journey to this point hasn’t been easy. Just last year, he and his wife, Jessica, job-shared a night porter position at a hotel. He then dedicated eight weeks to living in a hotel in Milton Keynes, relentlessly practicing to earn his tour card.
The financial stakes are now significantly higher. He’s already secured £100,000 in prize money at Ally Pally, a significant increase from his previous highest single-event payout of £6,500 just two years prior. A tournament win would bring a staggering £1 million prize.
During his post-match interview after beating Rock, Hood playfully asked the crowd, “Who wants a Chinese?” This wasn’t a spontaneous thought; it’s a long-held aspiration.
A Decade-Long dream & A Supportive Partner
Jessica Hood reveals she’s known about Justin’s restaurant dream as the day they met ten years ago. While detailed buisness plans are still in the works, she anticipates the restaurant opening sometime next year.
“Numbers haven’t been crunched yet, and we haven’t done any type of business plan,” Jessica explained, “but it is indeed something that will be probably happening next year.” She and Justin always believed consistent practice would unlock opportunities, and now, those opportunities are materializing.
An Unexpected Business Partner: Luke Humphries
Interestingly, Hood may not be embarking on this venture alone. World number two and 2024 World Champion Luke Humphries has playfully agreed to become involved.
Humphries shared that Hood approached him a few months ago wiht the proposition. “He asked: ‘If I do this, can we open a Chinese restaurant?’ I saeid, ‘yeah, yeah… we will’ so I think I’ve got to!”
Humphries jokingly admits Hood’s primary motivation seems to be a steady supply of free Chinese food. However, he acknowledges Hood’s current form. “He just wants to open one for the free Chinese food,and I’m like,’Justin,mate,we’ve got to make money from it’ and he’s like,’oh no,don’t worry about that’.”
A Formidable Opponent & A Potential Deal-Breaker
Despite their friendship, Humphries recognizes Hood as a serious competitor. He currently ranks as one of the top players in the tournament.
“I get the Chinese, but he’s in the tournament now,” Humphries stated. “He’s a contender. He’s a competitor and he’s someone I’ve got to watch out for.”
Humphries jokingly added a condition to their partnership: “If he beats me in the semi-finals, there is no Chinese then!” He acknowledges Hood is playing exceptionally well, potentially ranking as the second-best darts player in the tournament.
Ultimately,Justin Hood’s story is a compelling blend of athletic achievement and entrepreneurial spirit. You can expect to see him continue to challenge for the World Darts Championship title,all while together laying the groundwork for a new chapter – one filled with the aromas of Chinese cuisine. It’s a unique path, but one he and his supporters believe will be a resounding success.
