Sydney’s vegan scene is about to lose one of its brightest stars.

Locals are already mourning the news, saying their weekends will feel emptier without it.

Green Sprouts Chinese Vegan Restaurant has announced it will close its doors for good at the end of the month.


The Neutral Bay eatery, located on Military Road, shared the announcement in a heartfelt post to social media, confirming its final service would be on 31 August.

'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 restaurant had become a cult favourite for its authentic Hong Kong-style yum cha, with dim sum carts wheeled to diners' tables and a completely plant-based menu that drew fans from all over Sydney.

News of the closure sparked an outpouring of emotion from loyal customers.

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.


Some fans travelled from interstate, with a Newcastle customer admitting they made a 'special trip' every time they came to Sydney.

Others asked the owners to keep them updated if they started anything similar elsewhere.

Many diners became nostalgic recalling their favourite dishes, from the famed turnip cakes to 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 closure comes amid a wave of high-profile Sydney restaurant shutdowns.

In June, two waterfront favourites—Saké and El Camino Cantina at Manly Wharf—closed after 15 years, following what hospitality group Hunter St. Hospitality described as a 'commercial decision.'

In mid-July, award-winning Sri Lankan restaurant Lankan Filling Station in Darlinghurst announced it would 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, the countdown is on, with just over two weeks left to savour one last meal before the doors close.

Many are already planning farewell visits, while others admitted they still could not quite believe the city’s best-known vegan yum cha would soon be gone.


Another local favourite is closing its doors, highlighting just how unpredictable the restaurant world can be.

Sometimes the challenges behind these closures go beyond customers, touching on staff dynamics and management struggles.

If you want to see another real-life example of a sudden restaurant shutdown, this story sheds some light.

Read more: Restaurant boss slams own staff before sudden shutdown


Losing a city favourite like Green Sprouts leaves more than just empty tables—it leaves a space in the heart of Sydney’s vegan community.