Historic Hong Kong teahouse hosts 'dim sum rave' to woo younger crowd

Hong Kong’s historic Lin Heung Lau teahouse turned into a dancefloor on Saturday (May 9) night as it hosted a “dim sum rave” aimed at drawing younger customers.

Under a glittering disco ball, around 300 partygoers — ranging from Gen Z to middle-aged — danced while eating dim sum, including har gow (shrimp dumplings) and siu mai along with tea-flavoured alcohol as a disc jockey (DJ) played electronic and Cantonese music. 

“I think what’s most special is that there are shrimp dumplings, siu mai, and a DJ spinning records,” said 30-year-old Luna Chan, who travelled from Macau for the event.

“Normally at clubbing events, it’s just the DJ along with alcohol or cocktails. But here, there’s the atmosphere of a teahouse, so I feel it’s a place really worth visiting.”

Such crossover events tap into a growing global Gen Z trend of hybrid “themed raves” that blend music with food, culture and wellness — including popular coffee raves, daytime parties and sober-friendly experiences.

Dating back to the 1920s, Lin Heung Lau is renowned for its old-school dim sum trolley service and traditional Cantonese dishes. Like many heritage businesses, it has faced financial difficulties and temporary closures, including a two-year hiatus during the pandemic, before reopening in 2024.

The “Dim Sum Rave” concept was born after the pandemic when owner Rocky Wong took over the business. Wong said the city’s economy was experiencing a “cold winter” after the pandemic, prompting him to find new ways to attract younger diners.

During the day, the restaurant serves classic yum cha — the Cantonese tradition of drinking tea and sharing dim sum. At night, tables are cleared away, turning the venue into a dancefloor lit by party lights and a rotating disco ball. 

The event served as a farewell party for the teahouse’s 99-year-old Central branch, which is closing due to building redevelopment. Wong said the “Dim Sum Rave” will continue as a monthly event at its other branches.

“We hope to encourage more young people to participate in our cultural and historical activities,” Wong said.

“We want them to understand that going for yum cha isn’t just for older people — young people can enjoy it too.”

Production: Joyce Zhou/Reuters