Rat Falls from Ceiling at Wong Tai Sin Tea Restaurant, Hits Customer Holding Baby
HK01 · 4 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago5 MIN
Summary
A rat fell from the ceiling of a tea restaurant in Wong Tai Sin Centre on Saturday morning (November 8), striking a customer's arm and leaving blood marks, while the customer was holding a 4-month-old infant. The incident has drawn widespread criticism after online reports revealed that approximately eight restaurant staff members, who were dining at a nearby table, did not rush to help. Instead, witnesses say they stepped back and watched the commotion unfold. The restaurant claimed the rodent entered from outside and has continued operating despite the incident. The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) reportedly visited the premises three times following the incident.
Key Points
- The incident occurred around 11:50am on November 8 at a restaurant named Hak Koon (客館) in Wong Tai Sin Centre, while the customer was holding a 4-month-old baby
- The rat fell from the ceiling, striking the customer's arm and leaving blood stains, before falling to the floor and appearing unresponsive
- Approximately eight restaurant staff who were eating at a nearby table did not assist; witnesses say they "jumped away" upon hearing screams and stood watching without offering help
- Staff eventually covered the rat with a blue plastic basket, with one employee reportedly claiming the rat "came from outside" and that such an incident had never occurred at the premises
- The FEHD sent officers to inspect the restaurant three times after the incident, while the venue continued operations the next day
Why It Matters
The incident highlights growing public concerns about rat infestations and hygiene standards at Hong Kong food establishments, particularly in the Wong Tai Sin district where residents have long reported rodent problems. The staff's dismissive response has also raised questions about emergency preparedness and customer service standards in the food and beverage industry, with netizens calling for greater regulatory oversight from the FEHD .
The incident highlights growing public concerns about rat infestations and hygiene standards at Hong Kong food establishments, particularly in the Wong Tai Sin district where residents have long reported rodent problems. The staff's dismissive response has also raised questions about emergency preparedness and customer service standards in the food and beverage industry, with netizens calling for greater regulatory oversight from the FEHD .