Hong Kong restaurants invest HK$10K for pet-friendly dining scheme

Hong Kong is rolling out a government-backed pet-friendly dining scheme on July 9, with 833 restaurants signed up to welcome dogs inside. The initiative, led by the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department, aims to boost the pet economy. One participant, Old Fung Tea House—a dim sum chain with six outlets—has invested HK$10,000 (US$1,275) at its Mong Kok branch to create a designated pet section. The setup includes a HK$3,000 air purifier, six partitions costing HK$5,000 for four tables, three pet strollers at HK$400 each, and separate bins for pet waste. Owner Fung Man-kit expects high demand, noting weekend reservations are nearly sold out. Other restaurants are following similar measures, with pre-dining briefings and trained staff to handle furry guests.

Under the policy, only pre-registered eateries can participate, and dining with pets is reservation-only. The move reflects a broader trend in Hong Kong's growing pet economy, where owners increasingly seek pet-friendly venues. With costs ranging from a few thousand to tens of thousands of Hong Kong dollars, restaurants are betting on long-term returns from loyal pet-owning customers. The scheme's success could expand to more eateries and pet types, shaping future urban dining culture.