Suntory is bringing its annual Sydney bar residency back for a third year, this time transforming CBD basement izakaya Sakura House into Suntory House for a limited run from 31 July to 3 October.
The two-month takeover will see the venue reimagined as a celebration of Tokyo’s after-work drinking culture, with a menu built around Suntory’s portfolio of spirits, beer and ready-to-drink products. Inspired by Japan’s nomikai tradition of gathering over drinks after work, the residency will focus on highballs, sours, beer on tap and a collection of cocktails created by the Sakura House team.
The cocktail list takes cues from different corners of Japanese culture, pairing familiar Suntory spirits with playful flavours and references. Highlights include the Mazda Zoom Zoom, a fizzy mix of Haku Vodka, Midori, melon and vanilla inspired by Japan’s iconic melon floats served at baseball games, while the Matcha Point combines Roku Gin with matcha, passionfruit and white chocolate.
Elsewhere, the Nagano Sawa brings together Roku Gin, Minus 196 Double Lemon, Fuji apple and wasabi in a bright citrus sour, while coffee lovers can opt for the Frozen Mameya, blending Toki Whisky with Suntory BOSS Coffee and dulce de leche. Whisky also takes centre stage in the Blue Zone, an Old Fashioned-style serve featuring Hakushu Distiller’s Reserve, Okinawan black sugar syrup, rhubarb and vanilla. Returning as Sakura House’s signature pour is the Sakura Sour, a sparkling mix of Haku Vodka, yuzu and lemon served on tap.
Beyond the cocktails and snacks, the venue itself will receive a temporary makeover. The existing basement space will be refreshed with design elements inspired by water – paying homage to one of the foundations of Suntory’s whisky-making philosophy, alongside new artwork, lighting installations and playful illustrations throughout the venue.
Patrons can also try their luck at Suntory House’s vending machine, stocked with Japanese snacks, exclusive merchandise, gifts and surprise prizes, adding another touch of Tokyo to the experience.
Suntory says the residency is part of its ongoing global initiative to share authentic Japanese drinking culture outside Japan.
“We’re thrilled to return to Sydney for the third year with Suntory House – and this year, we’re bringing the energy of a true Tokyo izakaya to one of the city’s most beloved bars. Sakura House is the perfect home for us; a vibrant late-night spot where Sydneysiders and visitors alike can experience Suntory’s pioneering spirit and over a century of exceptional craftsmanship,” said Kazuyuki Takayama, Senior General Manager of Suntory Holdings Limited.
Suntory House will operate at Sakura House, Basement, 82–88 Elizabeth Street, Sydney, from 31 July until 3 October. The activation will be walk-in only, with details of special events to be announced throughout the residency.