Haidilao’s Clarke Quay Hotpot Gets a Two-Week Reprieve
So, the big name in hotpot, Haidilao, had a little spat with Singapore’s food safety watchdog last month. The branch at Clarke Quay, a popular spot for chili-laden dinning, had its operating licence pulled for two weeks — from Feb 10 to 23.
The Food Hygiene Fumble
- Accrued 12 demerit points in just 12 months
- First offence: handling food with bare hands
- Second offence: selling unclean food
On top of that, the outlet was slapped with a fine of $800. Not exactly a fee that screams “party” in the kitchen.
What NEA Has to Say
The National Environment Agency (NEA) warned, “If a licensee amasses 12 or more demerit points within a year, you’re looking at either a two‑week or four‑week licence suspension, or maybe even cancellation.” And for the staff: “Everyone working in the paused premises has to re‑take the Basic Food Hygiene Course and pass it before heading back to the stove.”
In the Spotlight (and the News)
While NEA rolled out the 12‑point verdict, the local press was already chattering about a notice posted at the restaurant on Saturday (Feb 10). The sign claimed a “50‑day renovation” closure — a promising marketing pitch, until the shuttered sign read the quiet word “re‑opening” in mirage‑tinted silence.
Haidilao’s Other Branches Shine on
Despite what happened at Clarke Quay, six other outlets in Singapore keep simmering: Novena Royal Square, 313@Somerset, IMM Building, VivoCity, Bedok Mall, and Plaza Singapura. All of them remained open. The chain’s global empire is impressive: over 200 locations worldwide, from China to Los Angeles, Tokyo, and Seoul.
Back‑Ground Tidy‑Up: Past Kitchen Fiascoes
Only less than a year ago, news outlets exposed Beijing outlets suffering from unsanitary practices: video footage showing rat infestations, a dishwasher clogged with oily residue, and a worker attempting to fix a sewage blockage in a soup ladle. The chain eventually offered a public apology, admitting management slip‑ups.
Feeling remorseful, Haidilao’s team pledged to clean things up and keep customers safe. Customers can expect a smoothed‑out service back at Clarke Quay once the licence is back in the cabinet.
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