Today : Apr 06, 2025
Food
02 April 2025

Man Yuen Restaurant Announces Closure After Two Years

Popular Michelin Bib Gourmand Cantonese eatery to close on April 27, 2025, after facing challenges.

Man Yuen Restaurant, a popular Cantonese dining spot located in Wong Tai Sin, has announced it will cease operations on April 27, 2025, just two years after its grand opening. The news, shared via a heartfelt message on the restaurant's social media platforms on April 2, has left many patrons surprised and disappointed.

Opened in April 2023, Man Yuen quickly gained a reputation for its exquisite Cantonese cuisine, earning a spot in the Michelin Guide's Bib Gourmand selections for both 2024 and 2025. Despite its accolades, the restaurant's journey has not been without challenges.

In its farewell message, the restaurant expressed gratitude to its customers, stating, "Because of you, this journey has become so precious. We deeply thank every friend who has walked into Man Yuen Restaurant. Your support has created our most beautiful memories." The post continued with a poignant reminder that "goodbyes are never forever," hinting at a hopeful future for the establishment.

The restaurant's management reflected on their experience over the past two years, noting the difficulties faced, including the challenges of being located in a somewhat obscure corner of the Tin Ma Court Shopping Centre. They described their initial period as one filled with uncertainty but emphasized their commitment to perseverance, likening their struggles to the resilience of the people of Hong Kong.

"These past few years have not been easy, but we treat them as a test, just like the resilience of Hong Kong people, who push forward with grit and determination," the management noted. They encouraged patrons to join them in their final days, inviting everyone to come together for one last meal and reminisce about the memories made.

However, the restaurant's path to recognition was not entirely smooth. In March 2024, a controversy erupted when popular YouTuber Ma Tian criticized the dining experience at Man Yuen, claiming poor service and being prohibited from filming. This incident sparked a debate online, particularly as another food channel praised the restaurant on the same day, leading to accusations of "fake reviews" and questions about the authenticity of the experiences shared.

Despite the ups and downs, Man Yuen Restaurant managed to secure its place in the culinary scene, drawing food enthusiasts with its traditional offerings, which included roasted meats, dim sum, and seasonal dishes like snake soup and clay pot rice. The restaurant's executive chef, Ck Poon, previously worked at renowned establishments such as the Four Seasons Hotel and Forum Restaurant Ah Yat Abalone, bringing a wealth of experience to the kitchen.

Yet, as the restaurant prepares to close its doors, rumors surfaced late last year regarding unpaid rent, with notices appearing on the premises indicating a potential lease dispute. Reports suggested that since January 2024, the restaurant had struggled to meet its monthly rent obligations of HKD 42,000, prompting speculation about its financial stability.

In their closure announcement, the restaurant did not specify the reasons for shutting down but expressed a desire to reconnect with their patrons in the future. "One day in the future, we hope to meet again and bring back the familiar warmth and heart-crafted Cantonese dishes to you," they stated, leaving the door open for a possible return.

As the final operating date approaches, loyal customers and food lovers alike are expressing their sadness over the closure of Man Yuen Restaurant. The establishment had become a beloved destination for those seeking authentic Cantonese cuisine, and its departure marks a significant loss within the local dining landscape.

Man Yuen Restaurant's story serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the restaurant industry, where success can quickly turn to hardship. While its doors may close, the memories created within its walls will linger on in the hearts of its patrons. The restaurant's final days are expected to be filled with nostalgia and a celebration of the culinary journey it has shared with the community.

As the restaurant bids farewell, it invites everyone to join them in creating one last round of memories before they close their doors for good. The team at Man Yuen hopes to leave a lasting impression on all who dined there, emphasizing that their spirit of culinary passion and love for food will continue to resonate.

For those wishing to visit before the closure, Man Yuen Restaurant is located at Tin Ma Court Shopping Centre, Wong Tai Sin, and will be open until April 27, 2025. Reservations can be made via WhatsApp at 6315 7300.