Zero-dollar meal? HK comedian draws backlash over stunt at sushi restaurant

A Hong Kong stand-up comedian has sparked online debate after attempting a “zero-dollar meal” at a Sushiro restaurant, a stunt that many netizens described as awkward and unnecessary.

The comedian, known online as “69ranch,” recently launched a new social media account and announced a challenge in which he would spend HK$1 at the Japanese sushi chain for every new follower he gained. As the account initially had no followers, the challenge meant he would spend nothing during his first visit.

In a video shared online, the comedian was seen ordering only complimentary items available at the restaurant, including pickled ginger, pepper, shichimi pepper, tempura dipping sauce, children’s tableware, a straw and a beer glass, all of which cost HK$0. He mixed the condiments together, jokingly naming the dish a “HK$0 cold ginger salad,” before pouring hot water into the beer glass and drinking it through a straw.

After finishing, he asked staff to process the bill. Footage showed staff repeatedly confirming that no food had been ordered, resulting in what many viewers described as an uncomfortable exchange. The bill was ultimately settled at HK$0.

The video quickly drew widespread attention online. Some viewers criticized the stunt as embarrassing and warned it could encourage copycat behavior or lead restaurants to introduce minimum spending requirements. Others dismissed the incident as harmless humor, saying it was simply meant as a joke.

Sushiro has not commented on the incident.