Opened in the 1920s, Lin Heung Lau is one of Hong Kong, China's oldest tea houses. It serves traditional trolley service, where diners sit around tables, selecting dishes like shrimp dumplings or char siu buns from steaming bamboo baskets.

Since mid-May, this historic space has transformed into a music venue featuring a disco ball, flashing lights, and DJs continuously playing electronic music combined with Cantopop.

Customers share their experiences as the old tea house changes its model to attract new patrons. Video: Reuters

The event drew approximately 300 attendees, ranging from Gen Z to customers in their 40s and 50s.

"I find it most unique to have both shrimp dumplings, siu mai, and a DJ playing music right next to me", shared Luna Chan, 30 years old, a visitor from Macau who traveled to Hong Kong for the party.

The tea house's transformation occurs as Hong Kong's retail and food and beverage sectors face challenges following the pandemic. A decline in tourism has altered the spending habits of mainland Chinese visitors. Additionally, a wave of local residents traveling to nearby mainland cities for cheaper shopping and dining has pressured the city's market.

Local media reported in April that at least 14 restaurants in Hong Kong announced closures within four months, including many long-standing brands and large-scale culinary chains.

"Everyone knows Hong Kong's economy has been in a downturn for recent years, but we believe brand recognition will help us weather the storm", stated Rocky Wong, Chairman of the Lin Heung Lau chain. He added that while people cannot be stopped from traveling, the 47 million visitor arrivals to Hong Kong will compensate.

Wong emphasized that to maintain its appeal, the restaurant must constantly experiment with new ideas, and the vibrant dim sum party model is one example.

Customers dance to electronic music at the historic Lin Heung Lau tea house, Hong Kong. Photo: Reuters/Tyrone Siu

Lin Heung Lau currently operates three branches. After closing its original location in Central, Hong Kong, the brand reopened at a new nearby site. Management plans to host themed music parties monthly.

This innovative strategy aligns with global Gen Z trends, as young people increasingly favor party models that combine music, food, culture, and a healthy lifestyle, similar to the rising global popularity of "coffee parties" or daytime gatherings.

Mai Phuong (According to Reuters, CNA)