‘Thank you for the service’: Special LNY greetings at chain cha chaan teng sparked heated online debate

While the city's serving culture has long been debated, a frustrating Lunar New Year encounter at a cha chaan teng chain has divided opinions online.

The diner shared his experience at the Sheung Shui eatery yesterday, describing how the waiter's "special welcome" during the festive period was so hard to swallow that he walked out.

According to the post, the diner was greeted with a bellowed question about the number of diners and a glass of water slammed onto the table, sending water splashing everywhere.

Considering the busy holiday period, the poster initially believed it was reasonable for the restaurant to have a 20 percent surcharge.

However, he pointed out that the restaurant was not full, even with seven to eight staff on duty, prompting him to question why the waiter displayed such a hostile attitude, seemingly intent on rushing him.

He left without ordering and posted sarcastically, "Thank you for a unique service. I’ll leave it for those who are worthy to enjoy it.”

Divided review on the restaurant

Within hours of the post, hundreds of comments flooded in, with many sharing that the eatery's poor service is common knowledge in the area. Some even labeled the staff's attitude as having a "championship of clearing plates."

However, the restaurant's regulars also defended the restaurant, insisting regulars always receive very good service and accusing the poster of making up the story.

Some suggested service varies by branch, while others called for understanding of staff pressure during the crowded holiday. 

The original poster responded calmly: “You have the right not to believe it—that’s the harmonious interaction online.”