Restaurants Packed Amid Celebrations As Rules Ease

Local restaurants on Sunday were swamped by large crowds of diners celebrating Father’s Day on the first weekend since Covid-19 restrictions were further eased.

With Hong Kong reporting a relatively low number of coronavirus infections in recent weeks, the government has increased the maximum of people allowed to gather in public places from eight to 50, while restaurants have been exempted from the limit.

One Chinese restaurant in Mong Kok was almost packed full by the morning as families celebrated the easing of the restriction, and Father’s Day.

One man told RTHK that going ‘yum-cha’ with his extended family used to be a weekly event – until Covid-19 hit.

He said he’s happy that they could all gather together again after a months-long break.

Another man – a grandfather – said his Father’s Day wish is that everyone can find jobs, and lead normal lives.

People didn’t appear to be worried that the easing of the social-distancing restrictions could lead to a spike in cases.

One man said he’s not worried about the risk of infections as he thinks Hong Kong has handled the outbreak well. He said he would continue to wear a mask when going out and pay attention to personal hygiene.

And a manager surnamed So said business has basically returned to pre-Covid-19 levels, and as many as 16 were seated at one table in his restaurant – giving more flexibility to large families that are celebrating Father’s Day.