Tokyo’s legendary Suntory Bar is in Sydney for a limited time.
Whisky Thief transforms Prefecture 48 into a sensory journey—discover authentic omotenashi hospitality, exclusive Suntory highballs, chef-crafted Japanese bar snacks, and the city’s most inventive cocktails, only until November 8.
Prefecture 48 in Sydney is taking the city’s bar scene by storm with a thrilling three-month pop-up: Suntory Bar has taken over the acclaimed Whisky Thief, reimagining the heritage-listed space as a vibrant celebration of legendary Japanese drinks and culture.
This unique residency, running through to November 8, 2025, is a collaboration between Suntory Oceania and Prefecture 48, inspired by Tokyo’s lively bar traditions and Suntory’s 125-year legacy as pioneers of Japanese whisky and spirits.
What is the Suntory Bar Pop-Up?
For three months, Whisky Thief is transformed into the Suntory Bar, occupying two levels of the Prefecture 48 precinct at 230 Sussex Street. The pop-up invites Sydneysiders to step into an immersive world crafted around “Omotenashi”—the Japanese philosophy of wholehearted hospitality—where every detail is designed to delight and surprise. The setting is reminiscent of Tokyo’s after-work “Nomikai” ritual, making it the perfect spot to connect with friends, colleagues, and fellow cocktail lovers.
The Bar Team and Culinary Collaborators
The heart of Suntory Bar is its expert team from Suntory Oceania, renowned for their deep knowledge of Japanese spirits. Special guest bartenders and chefs are set to take center stage, including culinary maestro Tetsuya Wakuda—a legend in Australian-Japanese cuisine—and Derek Kim, head chef of Garaku.
Together, these trailblazers have co-created signature highballs and paired snacks exclusive to the residency. Tetsuya’s involvement, for instance, resulted in a show-stopping pairing for the Hakushu Highball, offering one-of-a-kind flavours seldom seen outside Japan.
International talent will also feature throughout the pop-up. Notably, Jim Meehan, founder of New York’s renowned PDT cocktail bar, is crafting limited-edition drinks for Suntory Bar, further elevating its world-class status. The bar’s team also collaborates with Prefecture 48’s culinary stars on seasonal updates, ensuring there’s always something new for repeat visitors.
Food and Drink: Expect the Unexpected
Suntory Bar’s menu delivers an unforgettable deep dive into the brand’s full portfolio. Enthusiasts can sample whiskies such as Hakushu and Toki in crisp, perfectly-balanced highballs, along with inventive cocktails that showcase Suntory’s spirit range—Roku Gin, Haku Vodka, and beyond.
Signature drinks include:
- Hakushu Highball: A smoky, refreshing twist made legendary in Japan.
- Japanese Slipper: Haku vodka with Midori, triple sec, and lemon, a vibrant tribute to classic Tokyo cocktail culture.
- Rice Vodka Martinis: Featuring Haku vodka in a minimal and clean mix.
- Roku Gin Seasonal Tonics: Shun-inspired drinks tied to seasonal Japanese flavours.
- Laphroaig Penicillin & Maker’s Mark Gold Rush: American and Scottish whiskies reimagined with a Japanese touch.
- BOSS Coffee Irish Coffee: A Tokyo twist on classic Irish Coffee, featuring Suntory’s renowned BOSS Coffee RTD.
The food menu, equally ambitious, offers exclusive snacks designed by hatted chefs, such as:
- Braised Wagyu short rib choux pastry with Tasmanian Dutch potato, miso, and dark chocolate.
- Tasmanian Dutch cream potato choux with smoked Osetra caviar.
- Fried oysters with citrus mayonnaise and ikura.
- Tuna tartare layered with shiso and ponzu.
Tetsuya’s signature pairing, the Hakushu Highball and matching snack, stands out as a must-try for anyone seeking the pinnacle of culinary and cocktail craftsmanship.
Why This Pop-Up is Must-Visit
In a city teeming with bars, the Suntory Bar takeover at Prefecture 48 promises a sensory journey—a taste of omotenashi, a chance to savour exclusive food and drinks, and an opportunity to experience Japan’s vibrant hospitality culture in the heart of Sydney. Creative events, international collaborations, and a rotating menu ensure there’s always a new experience on every visit.
Spread across two levels and housed in a historic building, Prefecture 48’s Suntory Bar brings together art, design, and the spirit of modern Japan.
Whether you’re a seasoned whisky lover or looking to discover something new, this is the definitive Japanese pop-up for 2025—one that turns every evening into a celebration.
