Relish Noodle Star in Neutral Bay to close after 21 years on Sydney’s lower north shore.

By ANNA USHER

A classic, old school Chinese restaurant in Neutral Bay is about to serve up its last Sweet and Sour Pork.

Relish Noodle Star, a fixture on the Neutral Bay dining scene for the past 21 years, will close its doors for the last time on May 26.

Owners Winnie and Michael Wu told Mosman Collective that a 3% rent increase, combined with rising food costs and declining patronage forced the tough decision.

“We are very sad to be leaving after 21 years in Neutral Bay, and it will be hard to say goodbye to our regular customers,” Winnie said.

For the past seven years, cheap and cheerful Relish Noodle Star has been tucked away behind 81-91 Military Rd. Before that, they were located up the road at Big Bear.

Walk through the door after a few drinks at The Oaks and you know exactly what to expect; Spring Rolls, Prawn Crackers, Mongolian Lamb, Special Fried Rice and Lemon Chicken, all made fresh to order, every night of the week.

The Wu’s don’t even charge corkage when you BYO.

“We are a neighbourhood restaurant, and we don’t ever change the menu, people come here for the traditional Cantonese food that is made with lots of love,” Winnie said.

Relish Noodle Star’s loyal locals gathered online this week to pay respect, posting stories and memories of the place that holds a place in their hearts and stomachs.

“We have been customers at both locations in Neutral Bay for over 20 years. We will miss you and your amazing food, especially the Won Ton Noodle Soup. The best!” one resident wrote.

“Your place has had such a special place in our family history! So sorry to hear this,” said another.

Winnie told Mosman Collective she is looking forward to taking a break after her last dinner service on May 26, and has “no plans” to open elsewhere on the lower north shore.

“We have been here for a long time, and it is very hard to make a good living with rising rent and food costs,” she said.

“We want to say thank you to our wonderful clients who are like family to us – and we hope to see everyone before the doors close in a few weeks’ time.”