Suntory Bar takeover inside Sydney’s Prefecture 48

Suntory Oceania has launched a three-month residency at Whisky Thief located within Prefecture 48 – Sydney CBD’s Japanese culture and dining precinct.  

Over the course of the 12-week takeover, Suntory Bar will deliver unique cocktails, culinary collaborations and dynamic events that set a world class standard for omotenashi, the refined art of Japanese hospitality.

The extensive cocktail menu was developed by both the teams at Prefecture 48 and Suntory to celebrate the brand’s broad range of whiskies and spirits.  

From Manhattan-twists with Hakushu to Haku-takes on Midori classics like the Japanese Slipper and classic Highballs pioneered by Suntory in Japan, all will feature on the extensive menu.

Also serving during the takeover will be rice-vodka Martinis made with Haku, shun-inspired gin and tonics featuring Roku and a list of classics using Suntory’s American and Scottish whiskies, with a Laphroaig Penicillin and a Maker’s Mark Gold Rush.

Outside of its premium malts, Suntory also brings to play Boss Coffee in an Irish Coffee twist, as well as elevating its range of RTDs to bar-status.

A crowd of 120 celebrated the opening last week, tasting the range of cocktails and bespoke snacks carefully co-created by acclaimed Chef, Tetsuya Wakuda and ex-Tetsuya’s Chef and now Head Chef of Garaku, Derek Kim.  

Both Chefs were in attendance to unveil the snack menu and the star of the show ‘The Choux Duo’ which will be available alongside a Hakushu Highball, to create a unique Japanese drinking experience.

Served as a pair of bite-sized choux pastries – one with braised Wagyu short rib with Tasmanian Dutch potato, miso and dark chocolate, and the other with Tasmanian Dutch cream potato with smoked Osetra caviar.

Wakuda reflected on the shared values and philosophies between himself and Suntory, reflected in the menu.

“I have a deep appreciation for Suntory and the company’s dedication to tradition, craftsmanship and attention to detail – it resonates with me and it’s the same philosophy I bring to my food. I’m honoured to be part of this project and to contribute a dish for Suntory Bar that complements their exceptional spirits and helps bring this unique experience to life.

The residency will also host international talent, bringing limited-time cocktails and dishes to be served alongside Suntory Bar’s curated drinks menu and bar snacks.

Starting the takeovers is Jim Meehan, founder of New York’s PDT cocktail bar, who is creating his own Suntory Bar cocktails and making an appearance on Wednesday, 27 August.

Cindy Tseng, Brand Director of Prefecture 48’s parent company Azabu Group, described Suntory Bar as a collaboration that combines the brand and the venues vision for Japanese hospitality.

“When we opened Prefecture 48, our vision was to tell the story of ‘Every Japan’, a space where each visit reveals a new and beautiful surprise, and every corner offers something special, all while inviting Sydneysiders to explore the rich, layered culture and history of Japan. That’s why we are delighted to partner with Suntory to bring Suntory Bar to life.”