Hong Kong’s favourite bubbling broth just got a whole lot more student-friendly.
Haidilao, the internationally renowned hotpot chain, has launched a limited-time promotional campaign tailored exclusively for full-time tertiary students across Hong Kong. Dubbed the “University Time” offer, the deal grants eligible students a 31% discount on à la carte dishes—bringing the price down to a tantalising 69% of the original menu price. From associate degree holders to doctoral candidates, anyone enrolled full-time at a Hong Kong institute of higher education can take advantage of the savings, provided they present a valid student ID for the current academic year at the time of billing.
The promotion is valid across all five Haidilao branches in the city, and it applies not only to quick after-class meals but also to late-night sessions with friends. However, the offer comes with its own set of time-based conditions and exclusions, so students are advised to plan their visits carefully.
When Can Students Enjoy the Discount?
Timing is everything when it comes to maximising this deal. The promotional window runs through 30 September, with terms subject to monthly renewal. To qualify for the 31% discount, diners must adhere to specific seating or departure timeframes depending on the day of the week:
- Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays): Dine-in must begin before 17:00 or after 22:00, with the requirement that guests vacate the table by 17:00 or enter after 22:00.
- Saturday and Sunday: Seating is only permitted after 22:00.
This structure means that early-bird diners can enjoy a quick meal before 5 PM, while night owls can still satisfy their hotpot cravings well into the evening.
How to Redeem: Step-by-Step and Key Restrictions
While the discount is generous, Haidilao has implemented a few procedural steps and limitations to ensure the offer runs smoothly.
- Notify Staff Early: Upon arrival, patrons must proactively inform the restaurant that they intend to use the student discount.
- Present Valid ID: The discount is only applicable when the student themselves settles the bill. A physical, valid student ID for the current academic year must be presented at the counter before payment.
- Scope of Discount: The 31% reduction applies only to à la carte dishes. It does not extend to hotpot broth bases, side dishes, staple foods, beverages, or alcoholic drinks.
- Single Use Per Table: The offer is limited to one use per table and cannot be combined across multiple tables or used for private event bookings.
Note: Part-time students, those enrolled in continuing education programmes, and short-term course participants are not eligible for this promotion.
Participating Outlets for Ultimate Convenience
Students can visit any of the following Haidilao locations across Hong Kong:
- Yau Ma Tei Branch – Tel: 3996 7799
- Tsim Sha Tsui Branch – Tel: 3613 0888
- Causeway Bay Branch – Tel: 2322 2865
- Tsuen Wan Branch – Tel: 3543 1616
- Tseung Kwan O Branch – Tel: 2322 2329
Each outlet is expected to honour the promotion, though it’s always wise to call ahead and confirm availability, especially on weekends.
What This Means for Students and the Broader Dining Scene
This initiative from Haidilao represents a savvy marketing move aimed at a demographic known for its appetite (quite literally) for budget-conscious dining. University students, often constrained by tuition costs and living expenses, are a highly engaged customer base for the food and beverage industry. By providing a substantial discount during off-peak hours, Haidilao not only fills empty seats but also builds long-term brand loyalty among young consumers who may become lifelong regulars.
From a consumer perspective, the promotion also highlights the growing trend of time-based pricing in the F&B sector. By encouraging meals at specific times, restaurants can manage foot traffic more effectively while offering savings to those flexible enough to adjust their schedules. For students, this deal presents a practical way to enjoy a premium hotpot experience without straining their budgets.
The discount is expected to remain active until the end of September, after which Haidilao is likely to assess the response and potentially update the terms for the following month. Students eager to take advantage of the offer should act quickly and plan their visits around the stipulated time windows.
For more details, updates on terms, and branch-specific announcements, students are encouraged to follow Haidilao Hong Kong’s official Facebook page.