Hong Kong’s culinary landscape prepares for a significant change as the venerable Lin Heung Lau tea house confirms the relocation of its Central branch. After facing closure due to site redevelopment—a recurring challenge for the century-old institution—the iconic eatery assured patrons it will continue its legacy just a short distance away in Sheung Wan. This strategic move, slated for April, ensures the perseverance of Lin Heung Lau’s celebrated dining experience, including its unique tradition of serving dim sum from classic push trolleys.
The announcement, initially sparking concern among loyal customers accustomed to the restaurant’s turbulent history of financial and pandemic-related closures, quickly shifted to optimism. The management publicly committed to maintaining its enduring culinary bond with the city, including its signature practice of “one teapot two dishes.”
Navigating Development and Tradition
Lin Heung Lau has been an integral part of Hong Kong’s dining culture for over 100 years. Its Central premises, situated at the corner of Wellington Street and Aberdeen Street, had come to symbolize a vanishing era. The tea house is recognized as one of the few remaining establishments in the territory where dim sum is still presented in the traditional style via rolling carts, offering an authentic, bustling yum cha experience beloved by locals and tourists alike.
The restaurant’s past decade has been marked by instability. It briefly closed in the summer of 2022 following struggles exacerbated by the pandemic, only to successfully reopen in April 2024. However, the current premises faced an imminent deadline, earmarked for redevelopment to begin this April. A statement from Lin Heung Lau expressed gratitude, noting, “We are honoured to have become a landmark in Central and a part of your daily lives. This remains our greatest pride.”
A New Chapter in Sheung Wan
Crucially, the tea house confirmed its immediate plans for continuation. The relocated establishment will open in Tung Ning Building, situated at 249-251 Des Voeux Road Central, Sheung Wan. This new home is conveniently located near the Wing On department store, positioning the institution centrally within a district rich with historic commercial activity. The transition is scheduled to occur within April, prompting patrons wishing to bid farewell to the current Central location to plan their final visits promptly.
The preservation of this historic venue is paramount for safeguarding Hong Kong’s culinary heritage. Lin Heung Lau represents not just a restaurant, but a crucial piece of the city’s identity, maintaining practices that modern eateries have mostly abandoned.
Sustaining the Legacy
While the Central branch prepares to close its current chapter, the brand is already expanding its reach. Lin Heung Lau recently inaugurated a dedicated branch in Tsim Sha Tsui, which offers round-the-clock service, catering to the growing demand for flexible dining options. This provides an alternative for individuals seeking the classic dim sum experience at any hour.
The relocation to Sheung Wan symbolizes a determination to persist despite the pressures of urban development and economic fluctuations. By securing a new site, Lin Heung Lau ensures that its century-old commitment to traditional Cantonese cuisine and its unmistakable yum cha atmosphere will continue to anchor Hong Kong’s vibrant food scene for years to come. Foodies and cultural preservationists alike view this successful transition as a vital victory for local heritage.
