The legendary Sun Lung Shing Tea House, a cornerstone of Hong Kong’s culinary heritage for 67 years, has officially announced its impending closure. Located in Ngau Chi Wan Village, this rare “tin-sheet” squatter hut tea house will cease dinner service on March 31, 2026, followed by the final termination of its breakfast and lunch operations on April 30, 2026. The closure marks the end of an era for traditional “bird-watching” tea culture and handmade dim sum, as the site is reclaimed for government redevelopment projects under the latest Policy Address.
A Vanishing Piece of Old Hong Kong
Established over six decades ago, Sun Lung Shing represents one of the final remaining links to Hong Kong’s mid-century dining scene. The establishment gained fame not only for its rustic architecture but also for its commitment to labor-intensive traditions. Master chefs at the tea house typically begin their shifts at 1:00 AM daily to prepare hand-crafted dim sum from scratch, ensuring freshness that modern industrialized kitchens rarely replicate.
The tea house became a cultural sanctuary where locals practiced the art of “bird-watching” (playing with pet birds in cages while sipping tea). This unique atmosphere attracted a diverse clientele, ranging from neighborhood regulars to high-profile celebrities such as Louis Koo and Law Kar-ying, who were frequent visitors seeking an authentic taste of old-school Hong Kong.
Reasons for the Departure
The decision to close is not personal but logistical. The Hong Kong government’s redevelopment plan for the Ngau Chi Wan Village squatter area necessitates the reclamation of the land. Despite the establishment’s deep roots and historical significance, the urban renewal project means the physical structure of the tea house must be vacated.
In a heartfelt announcement on their Facebook page, the management expressed deep gratitude to their loyal patrons and the local community. The news has sparked a wave of nostalgia online, with many long-time customers thanking the masters for their dedication to the craft and lamenting the loss of such a significant cultural landmark.
Final Operating Schedule
For those wishing to pay their respects and enjoy a final meal, the tea house will operate on a staggered closing schedule:
- Dinner Service: Ends March 31, 2026 (4:30 PM – 11:30 PM)
- Breakfast and Lunch Service: Ends April 30, 2026 (4:00 AM – 2:30 PM)
Location: Shop B, G/F, 67 Lung Chi Path, Ngau Chi Wan, Choi Hung
Contact: 2247 1228 / 5591 1639 (for reservations)
As Hong Kong continues its rapid urban modernization, the loss of Sun Lung Shing Tea House serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of the city’s intangible heritage. Food enthusiasts are encouraged to visit before the end of April to witness the final days of this living museum of Cantonese tea culture.