The restaurant has been a fixture of Sydney’s Chinatown for more than four decades, often attracting large crowds for its famed cream puffs. Words Alexandra Feiam
A famous Sydney restaurant has temporarily shut its doors after nearly 50 years – but the owners say there’s been a “plot twist”.
Emperor’s Garden Restaurant has been a fixture of the Sydney Chinatown scene since 1979, but was reportedly forced to shut its doors this week.
The news came after a notice was slapped on its door stating it had been “lawfully re-entered and possession taken” and the locks had been changed.
But in a social media post, the restaurant owner confirmed the restaurant wouldn’t be permanently closing its doors and promised a return.
Emperor’s Garden regularly drew large queues.Credit: NewsWire / Monique Harmer
“Plot twist: we’re not closing,” the social media post read.
“We’re just making a few moves behind the scenes. More memes have been green lit though.
“This is where the fun begins.”
On Facebook, the restaurant confirmed its bakery and yum cha offerings were unavailable, but the Emperor’s Garden BBQ and Noodles remained open on Thomas Street.
Emperor’s Garden has often attracted large crowds, with a long line frequently snaking out the door as hungry customers waited for their custard-filled cream puffs.
Customers were shocked at the news of the temporary closure, with many sharing memories of the beloved Sydney institution.
“I’m so happy you’re not leaving us.,” one said. “We can’t lose a cultural institution.”
“I can’t handle this emotional rollercoaster!!” another heartbroken customer said.
Some said they “panicked” when they saw the sign on the front door.
“I panicked. This is not good for my anxiety,” they wrote. “Can’t wait to see you open again.”
The restaurant owner said the institution would be back up and running soon.Credit: NewsWire / Monique Harmer
Others recalled the day the restaurant opened in the ’70s.
“I eye witnessed the opening of the Emperor’s Garden in 1979,” one fan said.
“I grew up in this restaurant,” another said. “Myself and my family have many fond memories here – I sincerely hope this iconic restaurant opens again soon.”
Others wondered when the doors would reopen so they could get their hands on the famous cream puffs.
“Noooooo, not the bakery! Where will we buy our puffs???” a person wrote.
“I have a cream puff addiction, please don’t be too long, or I’ll have to rehab myself,” another said.
This article originally appeared on news.com.au, and has been reproduced here with permission.
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