Suntory Barโs three-month extravaganza of whisky, omotenashi, and elevated drinking culture is already well underway over at Whisky Thief (a key wing of Sydneyโs acclaimed Prefecture 48).
So far, the limited residency has lived up to its promise as one of the cityโs most exciting โopeningsโ for 2025: presenting everything from a bespoke โsnack creationโ crafted by renowned chef Tetsuya Wakuda to Rokuโs collab with Darren Robertson of Three Blue Ducks fame; and Jim Beamโs Black Tie BBQ, which showcased a multi-course menu curated by Luke Powell from LPโs Quality Meats and Chef Julio Aguilera of Ibushi.
But the fun isnโt over just yet. Because come October, a pair of notable names are clocking into Suntory Bar for guest shifts youโll likely never forget.
On Wednesday, 8 October, one of Japanโs most โvisionaryโ mixologists is making a rare appearance in Sydney for a single-night service to remember.
The man of the hour is none other than Shuzo Nagumo: founder of Tokyoโs iconic Folklore, and a figure celebrated across the globe for both his futuristic cocktail crafting techniques and cutting-edge approach to flavour.
With a CV that spans Japanโs most avant-garde bars, a tenure at Nobu London, as well as extensive travels all across Europe that honed his mixology skills like a whetstone sharpens a swordโฆ anyone serious about their drink will want to witness Nagumoโs artistry firsthand when he ducks behind the polished counter of Suntory Bar.
Then, to close out the month on Tuesday, 28 October, another exciting pillar of Tokyoโs vaunted bar scene is making its Sydney debut (also for one night only): Tokyo Confidential.
Since opening its doors in 2023, this standout establishment has defined itself with bold drinks, warm hospitality, and a come-as-you-are attitude. Finding yourself set against the backdrop of Tokyo Tower in all its sweeping majesty also doesnโt hurt.
Now granted, not every aspect of Tokyo Confidential will be transported to its exclusive experience at Suntory Bar for practical reasons (i.e. the aforementioned views of Tokyo Tower). Though given founder Holly Graham โ being among the worldโs Top 10 most influential bar figures, according to Bar World 100 โ is en route to personally steer the evening, itโs essentially a guarantee that the cocktails will be inventive, playful, and well worth your time.
Walk-ins are available for both guest shifts, but play it smart with a booking.
Itโs like we said before: Suntory Bar is a rare opportunity to enjoy Japan outside of Japan โ right in the heart of Sydney โ with the masters leading the way. Open until 8 November, be sure to check it out.
This article is presented in partnership with Suntory Global Spirits. Thank you for supporting the brands that support Boss Hunting.
