National Day long weekend expected to put HK$1.2 billion sparkle back into Hong Kong restaurants
- Restaurant industry figures predict the long weekend take will be 50 per cent up on last year
- Sunday fireworks spectacular expected to give restaurants around Victoria Harbour a major shot in the arm
The National Day holiday weekend is expected to dish up a massive HK$1.2 billion (US$153 million) boost to Hong Kong’s struggling restaurant sector – a 50 per cent increase compared with last year.
Industry experts predicted business at dining spots along Victoria Harbour and at Chinese restaurants would be especially brisk for the return of the National Day fireworks on Sunday.
But some warned that cost-conscious tourists from mainland China would be looking out for special offers or decide to opt for traditional street snacks instead.
Simon Wong Ka-wo, president of the Hong Kong Federation of Restaurants and Related Trades, predicted turnover on National Day alone would be more than HK$400 million, a 20 per cent increase compared with the 2022 holiday.
“Bookings of restaurants along the waterfront are full,” Wong said.
“Mainland travellers will look for more authentic Chinese food and also want to experience the nightlife during this holiday.”
