Clock ticking for Hong Kong ‘vomit noodle’ restaurant, the Star Cafe

Since it opened in 1966, the classic Star Cafe in Hong Kong has been attracting locals and tourists alike because of a signature dish with a revolting appearance – noodles that look like a pile of vomit. A local version of the traditional bing sutt or “ice room” eateries found in southern China, the normally crowded Star Cafe has seen business drop by as much as 80 per cent since the Covid-19 pandemic started in January 2020. Adding to its woes, the Champagne Court shopping centre where it is located has been sold and earmarked for demolition in the coming years, starting a countdown among diners who expect to feel “homesick” after losing their noodle spot.