End of an era: Kylie Kwong shocks foodies by closing iconic Sydney eatery

The Australian culinary scene is set to bid farewell to one of its most cherished institutions as chef and television personality Kylie Kwong announces the closure of her Sydney restaurant.

With a heavy heart, Kwong reveals the end of an era, marking the conclusion of a gastronomic journey cherished by locals and visitors alike.

As the curtains draw to a close on this chapter, reflections on the restaurant's legacy and Kwong's unparalleled contribution to the culinary landscape are sure to abound.


Lucky Kwong, located in South Eveleigh, will serve its final customers on June 26, a date that will undoubtedly be met with a mix of sadness and gratitude from Sydney's food enthusiasts.

‘Everyone is feeling it. I have never seen the restaurant industry in such tough times as it is right now,’ Kwong stated.

This decision marked the end of an era for Kwong, who has been a pioneering force in the industry for over three decades, known for her innovative fusion of Cantonese cuisine with native Australian ingredients.


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Kylie Kwong announced the closing of her Sydney restaurant Lucky Kwong. Credits: Instagram / @kylie_kwong


Kwong's journey in the restaurant business has been nothing short of remarkable, with her previous venue, Billy Kwong, also in Sydney, having closed its doors in 2019.

The closure of Lucky Kwong, which only opened in 2021, was a testament to the challenging times the hospitality industry is currently facing.

Kwong expressed sorrow at the decision to close Lucky Kwong but conveyed enthusiasm for the chance to ‘amplify other people’s stories’.

She expressed a desire to deepen her involvement with charities that support First Nations and multicultural communities.

‘I’ll still be very much connected to the food industry, but just I’ll be doing it in a different way,’ Kwong explained.


The announcement of Lucky Kwong's closure was accompanied by a heartfelt message on Kwong's social media account, where she thanked her supporters for their unwavering loyalty throughout her career.

The post drew comments from celebrity chefs and admirers alike, including Nigella Lawson and Darren Robertson, who both left messages of appreciation and encouragement for Kwong's future endeavours.

Lawson, in particular, expressed gratitude to Kwong for decades of ‘delicious and soulful genius’.

‘I feel a pang knowing that the next time I come back to Sydney there won’t be your restaurant to make a beeline for, but I’m so happy for you to have the time to do what’s right for you,’ she expressed.

Robertson echoed this sentiment, acknowledging Kwong's significant contribution to Australian food.

‘Now try and get some b***** rest before your next adventures!’ he said.

Kwong's influence on the Australian food scene has been profound, and her recent appointment as a Member of the Order of Australia in 2023 for ‘significant service to the hospitality industry, and to the community’ was a fitting recognition of her impact.


As one culinary chapter comes to a close with the bittersweet announcement of Kylie Kwong's closure of Lucky Kwong, the Australian food scene is evidently ever-evolving.

Kwong's decision to step back from her renowned Sydney restaurant marks a transition, allowing space for new tales to unfold in the realm of Australian gastronomy.

Yet, the vibrancy of the culinary world persists, with chefs like Nobu showcasing their innovative prowess, bringing fresh delights to the table.

Amidst Kwong's farewell, Chef Nobu's Down Under delight offers a sweet surprise, illustrating the ongoing narrative of culinary excellence in Australia.
Key Takeaways
  • Kylie Kwong, a renowned Australian chef and television presenter, is closing her Sydney restaurant Lucky Kwong on June 26.
  • Kwong cited the current tough times in the restaurant industry as a reason for her decision to end her career as a restaurateur.
  • After closing Lucky Kwong, she plans to embark on new ventures and continue her work with charities focusing on First Nations and multicultural communities.
  • Kylie Kwong was recognised for her significant service to the hospitality industry and the community, being appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in 2023.
What Lucky Kwong dish will you miss the most? How has Kylie Kwong's approach to food inspired your own cooking? Let us know your thoughts and stories in the comments below.
 
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