Trailblazing Melbourne chef Khanh Nguyen blindsided fans and followers on Sunday afternoon when he announced via an Instagram post that he has left restaurants Aru, Sunda and soon-to-launch bakery and brasserie Antara 128.

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A post shared by Khanh Nguyen (@genghiskhanh)

The post, which appeared on Nguyen’s page in the early afternoon reads; “Dear friends, family and to everyone who has supported me through the years. I’m feeling all sorts of mixed emotions knowing what I’m about to say may come as a shock. It is with a heavy heart as I announce my difficult decision to bid farewell to Sunda, Aru and Antara. 

Over the past five and a half years, I have dedicated my life and soul to these establishments, guiltily, sometimes putting them before my family.”

While it’s not yet known what the future holds for Nguyen, the celebrated chef made an indelible mark on Australian dining scene, and an outpouring of support and praise from fellow hospitality leaders, with Margaret chef Neil Perry commenting “Good luck renewal is invigorating” and Three Blue Ducks co-founder Darren Robertson sending well wishes with “Congrats mate. Best of luck with your next adventure! Xxx”.

While the departure has come as a surprise to followers, the heartfelt post doesn’t indicate any bad blood. “Lastly, to Adi and his family, I am truly grateful for the trust you placed in me, to bring to life the vision we shared. Though our paths may diverge, our friendship remains an invaluable bond that I will always cherish.”

The restaurant business is notoriously tough, both on those that work in the industry, and the families that support them, and we applaud anyone who takes a well-deserved step back. Nguyen closed his post with a poignant quote by author Joseph Campbell. “Sometimes you have to let go of the life you planned to find the life that’s waiting for you.”

Related story: Khanh Nguyen’s tomato and peach salad with nahm jim