Regular and new patrons alike have flocked to a decades-old Hong Kong cha chaan teng, made famous for being featured in a comedy film starring Stephen Chow Sing-chi, as the struggling restaurant in Mong Kok will close permanently after Christmas.
The Hung Wan Cafe was packed on Saturday afternoon, with a stream of customers waiting outside for a seat. Some were seen taking photos of the restaurant, while staff members attended to patrons.
Among the diners were retiree Chan Shuk-mee, 76, and her son Ho Ka-kit, 52, who drove from their home in Sha Tin to have lunch at the restaurant they frequented over the years. The pair had fried rice and baked pastries, which they said were one-of-a-kind.
“The food here not only tastes good but also has a home-made touch,” said Ho, an engineer. “We are emotionally bonded to this place. It is a pity that the restaurant will close for good soon.”
Chan added that she only learned about the impending closure two days ago and would visit the restaurant a few more times before it closed permanently after December 25.
The two-floor cha chaan teng has a small bakery at the shopfront selling buns, tarts and bottled milk.