2 days ago
Beloved Sydney restaurant announces shock closure after five years - and fans are heartbroken
One of Sydney 's favourite vegan eateries will shut down at the end of the month, and loyal customers say the loss will leave a huge hole in their weekends.
Green Sprouts Chinese Vegan Restaurant on Military Road in Neutral Bay revealed the news in a heartfelt post to Instagram and Facebook, confirming its final service will be on August 31.
'After nearly five incredible years, Green Sprouts Vegan Chinese Restaurant will be closing its doors for good on August 31st,' the statement read.
'Since opening in October 2020, we've had the honour of welcoming thousands of vegan and non-vegan diners from all over Sydney, and we're grateful to have been voted one of the best vegan restaurants multiple times.
'This journey wouldn't have been possible without your love and support. While it's heartbreaking to say goodbye, we are truly grateful for every moment shared.
'Thank you for being part of our story - and come to say goodbye in the next couple of weeks.'
The Military Road venue quickly became a cult favourite for its authentic Hong Kong-style yum cha, complete with dim sum carts wheeled to diners' tables and a 100 per cent plant-based menu that won over both vegans and meat-eaters.
As news of the closure spread, loyal customers filled the comments with tributes.
One said they were 'devastated' and admitted they had 'no idea where to go for yum cha now.'
Another described it as 'the saddest news' and vowed to visit before the month's end to say goodbye.
Others revealed they travelled from interstate just to eat there, with one Newcastle customer admitting they made a 'special trip' every time they came to Sydney.
Many urged the owners to keep them updated if they start anything similar elsewhere.
Some diners became emotional recalling their favourite dishes, from the famed turnip cakes to the mango custard buns, black sesame balls, bean curd rolls, and vegan duck pancakes.
One regular said the restaurant had been their 'go-to for every birthday and special occasion' and praised the food as 'better than the real thing.'
Another wrote, 'I hope this is not the end of your vegan restaurant dreams - your food is incredible.'
The shock announcement comes amid a wave of high-profile Sydney restaurant closures.
The Military Road venue quickly became a cult favourite for its authentic Hong Kong-style yum cha, complete with dim sum carts wheeled to diners' tables and a 100 per cent plant-based menu that won over both vegans and meat-eaters
In June, two of Sydney's best-known waterfront venues - Saké and El Camino Cantina at Manly Wharf - shut down after 15 years on the lease, following what hospitality group Hunter St. Hospitality described as a 'commercial decision.'
In mid-July, award-winning Sri Lankan favourite Lankan Filling Station in Darlinghurst revealed it will soon serve its final hoppers after seven years, with chef-owner O Tama Carey calling it 'the end of an era.'
For Green Sprouts fans, however, the countdown is on - with just over two weeks left to savour one last meal before the doors close for good.
Many are already planning farewell visits, while others admit they still can't quite believe the city's best-known vegan yum cha will soon be gone.
