Long queues formed at some restaurant chains as more than 3,400 eateries offer special discounts of up to 29 percent.
At one outlet, a customer, Cheng, told RTHK that he will take the chance to splurge on items he rarely orders.
Asked how much he planned to spend, he said, “I think over HK$100 for breakfast. I will order items that I rarely order, special drinks.
“I think the atmosphere is really good, I am very happy, it feels like everyone is celebrating together.”
A representative for the restaurant said it’s the fourth consecutive year that it has offered 29 percent off on all orders on July 1.
He said it wasn’t aimed at boosting revenue but to celebrate the SAR Establishment Day and express gratitude to customers for their long-term support.
The eatery, he stressed, has deployed more manpower and prepared more supplies to meet an expected increase in demand for the day.
Some public transport services are free, including tram and several ferry routes such as the one between Wan Chai and Tsim Sha Tsui.
“We’re taking a few types of public transport. We’ll cross the harbour for the tram,” a woman, Ng, told RTHK who brought along her son to take the ferry in Tsim Sha Tsui.
“People seem more eager to go out and shop. The streets were bustling and the atmosphere was better [than usual].”
Railway operator MTR is giving away 71,000 e-single journey tickets through a lucky draw, while attractions such as Ngong Ping 360 and Peak Tram offer discounts on rides.
A number of facilities under the Leisure and Cultural Services Department are also available free of charge.
