No guide dogs allowed! Tin Hau siu mei chain refuses entry to guide dogs

A popular siu mei restaurant chain “Ki's Roasted Goose Restaurant” in Tin Hau has sparked controversy after it allegedly refused customers with guide dogs to enter.

The incident that happened at around 5pm on Monday was shared online by one of the customers who was denied entry along with four of his friends and three guide dogs.

The post noted that the group of five and three guide dogs was hoping to dine at the Tin Hau restaurant that evening, yet restaurant staffers adamantly refused to let the guide dogs in.

Restaurant staff displayed a hostile attitude and ignored all attempts at explanation, even when they were told that discrimination against the use of guide dogs is unlawful, the post read.

Eventually, the group resorted to seeking police assistance.

The account further detailed that despite the police explaining that guide dogs are legally allowed to enter public places, the restaurant staff remained "stubbornly resistant, refusing to accept any advice," and even persisted in asserting that "dogs cannot enter the restaurant" in front of the officers.

The commotion lasted for over half an hour, leaving the group frustrated and helpless due to the restaurant's attitude, which they described as "a flagrant disregard for the law".

The customer also noted she will file a formal complaint with the Equal Opportunities Commission.

When responding to media inquiries, the police said they received a report at 5.21pm on Monday from a woman who claimed to have been denied entry to a restaurant at 79 Electric Road in Tin Hau after restaurant staffers refused to let guide dogs in.

According to the Disability Discrimination Ordinance, guide dogs are allowed access everywhere the public is allowed, including restaurants, supermarkets and public transport.

In response to the backlash, the restaurant issued an apology via social media late on Tuesday.

The restaurant clarified that the refusal was due to a misunderstanding by a staff member and affirmed their commitment to improving training and education for all employees to prevent future occurrences.

They also emphasized that guide dogs are welcome and that they strive to provide accessible services for all customers.