Emperor's Garden, a popular Sydney restaurant known for its Cantonese cuisine and signature cream puffs, faces potential closure after allegedly owing the Australian Tax Office (ATO) $845,133.11 in unpaid taxes. The ATO has initiated court proceedings to wind up the company, Emperor's Garden Pty Ltd, and appoint a liquidator to recover the debt.
The company, founded in 1979 and operated by Stanley and May Ho Yee, was issued a letter of demand in March. Court documents reveal the ATO's request for a liquidator to be appointed, with the tax authority also seeking to recover its court costs. The restaurant's operators have not yet formally responded to the court action. Representatives for the restaurant have been contacted for comment.
Despite the serious financial allegations, many patrons have publicly defended the establishment. Social media commentary shows a strong public sentiment favoring the restaurant, with some jokingly suggesting nationalization or urging the ATO to overlook the debt. Customers have shared fond memories of the restaurant's dishes, particularly its cream puffs, and expressed a desire for its reopening.
Customers arriving at the Dixon Street restaurant in Haymarket recently encountered notices indicating the premises had been "lawfully re-entered and possession taken," with locks changed. However, the restaurant's owners issued reassurances via social media, stating they were "not closing" and were making "moves behind the scenes."
In an Instagram post, the restaurant indicated a temporary pause for its physical operations, stating, "Although our doors are taking a short break, our social media isn't." They also hinted at future plans, mentioning "big plans for its 47th year" and continuing to share "stories, flavours and memories" that have made Emperor's Garden a part of Sydney for generations. They thanked their patrons for their continued support and pledged to stay connected.