Australia Dairy Company Closes for Black Rainstorm Prioritizing Employee Safety

In a move that has earned widespread applause, the iconic Australia Dairy Company in Jordan chose to close early during Tuesday's black rainstorm warning, prioritizing employee safety over profits. The decision has further solidified the cha chaan teng's reputation as one of Hong Kong's most considerate employers.

A rare closure for a rare storm

As torrential rains flooded streets across the city, the popular eatery announced via social media at 10 am today that it would suspend operations due to hazardous weather conditions. The restaurant expressed a message of caution, advising everyone to "stay safe," which garnered nearly 1,000 likes. Netizens have expressed their approval of the move, with one noting that restaurant has consistently demonstrated a strong moral compass, while others described the closure as "a rare act of kindness in the F&B industry."

The restaurant that loves a holiday

Known for its silky scrambled eggs with milk and thick toast, Australia Dairy Company is a must-visit for tourists and locals alike—when it's open, that is. The restaurant has developed a cult following not just for its food but also for its frequent closures. Beyond weather-related shutdowns, ADC traditionally takes extended breaks during major holidays, including a 3-4 day hiatus for Mid-Autumn Festival and an 11-day Lunar New Year break this year. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it famously closed for two months. Even in normal times, the eatery regularly takes every Thursday off—a schedule that has led competitors to joke about its "no worries" approach to business.

Why this closure stood out

While many Hong Kong restaurants remain open during severe weather to serve customers, Australia Dairy Company's decision to prioritize staff safety resonated deeply in a city where service workers often brave dangerous conditions. The black rainstorm warning—the highest level of Hong Kong's three-tier system—brought widespread flooding and disruption, making travel hazardous.