Hong Kong’s F&B Evolutions:
| Pet-Friendly Restaurants
| Outdoor Dining
| Halal Certification

On September 17, 2025, Chief Executive John Lee delivered his fourth Policy Address, unveiling transformative plans to enhance Hong Kong’s food and beverage (F&B) industry and firmly position the city as a global culinary and cultural hub. From pet-friendly restaurant licensing to streamlined outdoor dining policies, halal certification subsidies, and a revamped Lan Kwai Fong, the announcements outline a bold vision for fostering innovation, inclusivity, and growth across the F&B and tourism sectors.

This article explores the key initiatives and why they matter to restaurateurs, marketers, and brand owners eager to capitalize on Hong Kong’s evolving dining landscape.

Pet-Friendly Dining: A Game-Changer for Restaurants

Hong Kong’s decades-old ban on dogs in restaurants will soon end under a new licensing scheme. Approved eateries will display clear signage, allowing customers to dine alongside their furry companions. This initiative is set to tap into the 400,000-strong pet market, offering restaurants an opportunity to attract a high-spending, pet-loving clientele.

Key details:

• Quota-based licenses will ensure hygiene and safety standards.
• Restaurants with outdoor seating accommodations (OSAs) can expedite the approval process.
• Early adopters can establish themselves as leaders in this niche, gaining a competitive edge in the market.

Streamlined Outside Seating Accommodation (OSA) Policies

Outdoor dining is becoming a cornerstone of Hong Kong’s hospitality transformation. The government has pledged to streamline OSA application procedures, making it easier for restaurants to provide alfresco dining options.

Key measures:

• Standardized government rents for OSAs.
• Relaxed requirements, such as no mandatory increases to kitchen or bathroom areas.
• Faster approval processes for new applications.

This change is expected to revitalize outdoor dining in Hong Kong, offering diners a vibrant and open-air experience while creating a new avenue for restaurant owners to expand operations.

Halal Certification Subsidies: Catering to Muslim Tourists

To attract Muslim tourists from Southeast Asia and the Middle East, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has introduced a subsidy program for halal certification.

Key highlights:

• Certification fees are capped at HK$5,000 until the end of 2026.
• The number of certified halal restaurants has nearly doubled, rising from 100 in 2024 to over 190 in 2025.
• This initiative aligns with the government’s strategy to strengthen Hong Kong’s appeal as a Muslim-friendly travel destination.

Restaurants that embrace halal certification can tap into a growing market of high-spending tourists seeking inclusive dining options.

Wine & Dine Festival: A Global Culinary Celebration

As part of its efforts to solidify Hong Kong’s status as an international culinary hub, the HKTB will enhance global marketing efforts for the Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival this October.

What to expect:

• A showcase of Hong Kong’s diverse bar and restaurant offerings.
• Increased global appeal through enhanced branding and promotional campaigns.
• Opportunities for F&B brands to participate in a high-profile event that attracts global attention.

The festival will serve as a platform to celebrate the city’s culinary diversity and attract tourists eager to explore its vibrant dining scene.

Revitalizing Lan Kwai Fong: A Fresh Take on Nightlife

Lan Kwai Fong, Hong Kong’s iconic nightlife district, will undergo a phased beautification project to enhance its streetscape and promote community engagement. While details remain limited, the initiative aims to preserve the area’s cultural relevance and elevate its appeal to locals and tourists alike.

This rejuvenation aligns with the government’s broader goal of creating a vibrant cultural and tourism hub, ensuring Lan Kwai Fong remains a key attraction.

Why These Announcements Matter

John Lee’s 2025 Policy Address underscores the government’s commitment to fostering innovation, inclusivity, and growth within Hong Kong’s F&B sector. By addressing evolving consumer preferences, the initiatives provide restaurateurs, marketers, and entrepreneurs with a roadmap for success in a competitive market.

Key takeaways:

• Pet-friendly policies and outdoor dining regulations create new revenue streams for restaurants.
• The halal certification subsidy positions Hong Kong as a leading destination for Muslim tourists.
• Events like the Wine & Dine Festival offer opportunities for global exposure.
• The revitalization of Lan Kwai Fong ensures Hong Kong remains a nightlife and cultural hotspot.

By embracing these changes, F&B professionals can position their brands for success, tapping into emerging markets and redefining the dining experience in Hong Kong. The time to act is now.