Chef Dan Hong calls for diners to support their local Asian restaurants as trade slumps
Dan Hong, the well-known chef behind some of Sydney’s most respected Asian restaurants, has called on the public to support their local Chinese and Asian restaurants which are close to the brink following a slump in customers who are fearful of the coronavirus.
As executive chef at a stable of Merivale’s restaurants - Mr Wong, Ms.G’s, The Establishment, Queen Chow and Lotus 2.0. - Hong is calling on diners not to abandon their local Chinese and Asian restaurants.
Speaking to Broadsheet, Hong said; “It’s time for people to get back into these restaurants and support their local community before it’s too late for some of these eateries”.
“So let’s support our local Chinese and Asian restaurants. Please don’t let the fear of coronavirus take over your life. Understand the facts about how transmission occurs – there’s no reason to avoid Chinatown. Restaurant trade is down. Staff are being laid off. And some of your favourite spots may have already shut down. We need to keep eating at Asian restaurants.”
The plea follows news that one of Melbourne’s most iconic Chinese restaurants, Shark Fin House, has been forced to shut its doors after 39 years due to the drop off in customers.
Sheridan Randall, 14th February 2020
