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The restaurant in Darlinghurst, co-founded by celebrity chef Luke Nguyen, his sister Pauline Nguyen, and partner Mark Jensen, will serve its final meals on Nov. 22, as reported by The Sydney Morning Herald.

Jensen cited several reasons behind the closure, including declining customer numbers, continuous rainfall, and the public’s growing fascination with new dining establishments.

When Red Lantern first opened in 2002, it was a groundbreaking concept.

At the time, Vietnamese cuisine was often associated with formica tables and budget eats, but the restaurant redefined this narrative by offering the cuisine with refined service, high-quality ingredients, and a fine-dining touch, Daily Mail reported.

Dishes like caramelized pork and prawn-and-pork rice cakes quickly became signatures, earning critical acclaim and a loyal following.

Fresh spring rolls are served at Red Lantern restaurant. Photo courtesy of the restaurant

Red Lantern has become one of the most renowned Vietnamese restaurants globally, garnering numerous awards from organizations such as the Restaurant and Catering Association (R&CA) and the Good Food Guide.

Luke Nguyen himself is one of the most influential chefs in the culinary world. He was honored in the Sydney Morning Herald’s Food Hall of Fame, and is also the author of best-selling cookbooks, including “Secrets of the Red Lantern” and “The Songs of Sapa.”

Red Lantern’s closure marks another blow to Sydney’s dining scene.

Neutral Bay’s beloved Mr Yip also confirmed it would close at the end of September. The dumpling house, led by Hong Kong–trained chef Kirk Yip, had become a go-to spot for handmade dim sum since opening in 2021.

This news comes just weeks after Green Sprouts Vegan Chinese Restaurant served its final yum cha on Aug. 31.