Sydney Chinese restaurant Marigold to close after 39 years

An iconic Chinese restaurant which has been frequented by politicians and Hollywood stars is closing its doors after 39 years.

A Sydney yum cha institution, frequented by politicians and Hollywood stars alike, is closing its doors after almost 40 years in business, another casualty of the Covid pandemic.

The team behind Chinatown’s Marigold Restaurant, housed over two floors in the CityMark building on George St, announced to customers its final service would be on Sunday, December 5.

“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,” the venue’s management team wrote on their website. “As there are plans to extend the CityMark building, it is time to say goodbye.”

Director Quentin Tarantino poses with fan at the restaurant in 2003. Picture: Saffrine Nydegger.

Former prime minister Paul Keating at the Marigold in 1995.

Former politicians Philip Ruddock and Barry O’Farrell (middle).

The Marigold. Picture: Phil Rogers

Over the years, Marigold has hosted the likes of movie star Daryl Hannah, filmmaker Quentin Tarantino and former prime ministers Paul Keating and Gough Whitlam.

“In the past 39 years, we have been very privileged to have served Sydneysiders and visitors from interstate and overseas,” the website reads.

“The children and grandchildren of our customers have grown up with us and held their milestone celebrations in the restaurant.”

Actor Daryl Hannah flanked by unnamed men in 2003. Picture: Saffrine Nydegger

Businesswoman Janet Holmes a Court with former prime minister Gough Whitlam in 1999. Picture: Alan Pryke.

The closure drew an outpouring of emotion by customers on social media.

“This place literally changed my life,” Carolyn Tran wrote.

“I am so devastated.”

Tatiana Badgery said it was crushing news. “Out of all the news I’ve had in this pandemic, this has hit the hardest,” she wrote. “I will be so sad to see this place go.”

The announcement comes after news one of the city’s other most well-known Chinese establishments is set to be rescued from closure. Haymarket’s Golden Century seafood restaurant went into administration in August after serving Sydneysiders for 31 years. Creditors recently voted to clear the business of its debts ahead of a post-pandemic relaunch.