Home of 'best fish balls' to shut down as owner retiring with no one to take over

Ayra Wang and Yu Wing Chan

Kam Wing Tai Fish Balls on Cheung Chau, famous for its giant fish balls, will shut down on August 15 after almost half a century in operation.

People queued for its signature treats yesterday, saying it is a pity it has to close.

Neighbors said the stall is closing because the owner - better known as "Mr Kam" - is too old to run the business and no one is inheriting it.

Staff confirmed that the stall will close after 48 years of business.

One patron, Cheung, said he buys fish balls from the stall every time he visits Cheung Chau. He added: "Their fish balls taste fresher and are not expensive. It's a pity that many old stores are closing down because owners have no heirs."

Secondary student Tse said she was not aware of the closure and considered fish balls from the stall to be "the best."

Leung Kwok-ming, chairman of Chung Hing Street Kai Fong Committee, said it is hard to say whether the owner's decision to retire is regrettable.

"Things rise and fall and when there is a beginning there's an end," Leung said.

The stall, located next to the Cheung Chau ferry pier, is recommended by the Hong Kong Tourism Board as "a special place" among fish ball lovers. Its website says: "It offers a variety of other meat and seafood balls and even triangles, along with the classic curry fish ball."

Western restaurant chain Outback Steakhouse, meanwhile, shut nine of its 19 branches today, including those in Tsuen Wan, Causeway Bay, Wan Chai, Tuen Mun, Kowloon Bay, Lohas, Tsim Sha Tsui and Hung Hom.

The US steakhouse, which entered the Hong Kong market 25 years ago, announced the closures last month, estimating it will affect some 300 staff.

At the Tsim Sha Tsui branch, a couple surnamed Lo, who were regular patrons, said they will "miss it dearly." They added: "We go to church nearby every Sunday and then come here for lunch. The service is very special and waiters are very attentive."

Another couple, surnamed Chan, said they have made fond family memories in the restaurant.

"We used to come here on dates," they said. "This restaurant has wonderful service and good food. We used to come here a lot before the pandemic and really enjoy the steak."

The couple also brought their young son with them to say goodbye to the branch.

ayra.wang@singtaonewscorp.com