While the pandemic has impacted most people in different ways, its catastrophic effects on the hospitality industry cannot be overstated. Marigold Restaurant has been treating Sydney to delicious Cantonese cuisine for nearly 40 years. But unfortunately, Sunday, December 5 will be its last Yum Cha offering to its loyal patrons. While there are many reasons behind the decision, the deep impact of the pandemic is being largely attributed to the decision.
Marigold restaurant closing after 39 years
This is the second Chinatown restaurant to close its doors with Golden Century announcing its closure not too long ago.
Marigold restaurant announced the news on its website, stating: “The Covid-19 pandemic has changed the way we live, work and travel. Sadly, it has also hit Marigold’s function business and weekday trading; it is time to say goodbye.”
The statement continues: “In the past 39 years, we have been very privileged to have served Sydneysiders and visitors from interstate and overseas, many of whom have become our friends. The children and grandchildren of our customers have grown up with us and held their milestone celebrations in the restaurant. We have also served corporations and community associations, witnessing their achievements.”
This is yet another devastating news to Sydney’s hospitality sector. Open everyday for lunch and dinner, the Haymarket staple was especially popular for its Yum Cha and their trolley carts that included barbecued pork buns, prawn dumplings and mango pancakes.
The owners first opened Sydney’s very first Hong-Kong style Chinese restaurant with the Old Marigold in 1982 at 299 Sussex Street before introducing its sibling restaurant Regal in 1986.
If you haven’t yet visited Marigold, there is still some time to dine in their legendary halls. The restaurant is open everyday till December 5 for yum cha and la carte from 10am–3pm along with la carte dinner and dim sum degustations from 5.30–9.30 in the evenings.
Read their full statement here.