Simon Wong Ka-wo, president of the Hong Kong Federation of Restaurants and Related Trades, expressed optimism as the city celebrated the 28th anniversary of its return to Chinese sovereignty on Tuesday.

“The different discount packages offered by restaurants and shopping malls will encourage more residents to consume,” Wong told the Post, noting that the number of participating restaurants had jumped from 2,000 last year to 3,800 this year.

The offers, including a 29 per cent discount at Hong Kong-style cafe chain Tai Hing and its 15 sister restaurant chains, led to bustling scenes at eateries across the city.

At Tai Hing’s Tsuen Wan branch, there was a constant queue of over 20 people, with the number at times exceeding 30. Its Causeway Bay outlet was packed with diners early in the morning.

Other businesses such as Chinese teahouse All Forum and bakeries such as Arome also took part in the promotional campaign by offering discounts.