Emperor's Garden in Sydney Chinatown closes as ATO moves to wind up company

Sydney's iconic Emperor's Garden bakery has shut its doors after the Australian Taxation Office sought to wind up the business, though owners say the closure is temporary.

Emperor's Garden, a long-standing Chinatown restaurant and bakery in Sydney, closed after the Australian Taxation Office applied to wind up its operating company. A sign on 98-100 Hay Street announced that the property had been lawfully re-entered and possession taken, directing staff and customers to the owners and the law firm Mills Oakley. The business, celebrated for its 70-cent cream puffs, posted a social-media message saying the venue is taking a short break and will reopen.

The ATO’s enforcement action follows a claim that the company failed to meet its debt obligations, prompting a Federal Court hearing scheduled for Friday. Meanwhile, the City of Sydney has approved a $44.5 million redevelopment that would add a 22-unit residential tower to the site, though it is unclear how the tax proceedings will impact the project. The property is partly owned by Hynsco Pty Ltd and M & S Yee, with family members of founder Stanley Yee involved in the ownership structure. A separate Emperor's Garden outlet on Thomas Street remains open.