Master Mixologists And Tokyo Takeovers: Prepare For Two Nights Of Japanese Cocktail Magic

Your next late-night obsession has officially landed in Sydney for a limited run, and it's coming straight from Tokyo.

Until Saturday, 8 November, Prefecture 48—Sydney’s first and only Japanese dining precinct—is playing host to a three-month Suntory Bar takeover inside its Whisky Thief bar.

Suntory’s immersive residency celebrates the brand’s rich heritage and world-class portfolio, from premium Japanese spirits to international whiskies. With two bartender takeovers set to shake up the Highball in true Tokyo style, Suntory Bar is the go-to spring spot for inventive cocktails and next-level Japanese bites.

One Month, Two Legendary Takeovers

Though the Suntory takeover runs until November, October is when the magic reaches full tilt. On 8 October, cocktail visionary Shuzo Nagumo—the mastermind behind Tokyo’s acclaimed Folklore—takes over the bar for one night only. Nagumo will be mixing highballs reimagined, bringing unique Japanese ingredients including speciality teas, flavour pushed to the edge, and cocktails that feel part science experiment.

Next, Holly Graham of cult-favourite Tokyo Confidential touches down on 28 October, bringing bold, playful cocktails and the laid-back energy that’s made her bar a Tokyo must-visit. As one of the city's most talked-about bars since its 2023 launch, and with Graham ranked among the world’s top 10 most influential bartenders in the Bar World 100, you’d be silly not to book in for a night of come-as-you-are warmth. All you have to do is pull up, sip up, and let Graham’s team show you what the Tokyo scene is buzzing about.

To offer a sneak peek into what’s in store for the Tokyo Confidential pop-up, you can expect the likes of the tropical, long-drink vibes of a Hokkaido High—Suntory Toki Whisky, Awamori, corn tea, and a hit of mango—alongside the indulgent, coffee-kissed twist of a Mugi Boogie, where Haku Vodka, Mugi Shochu, soy caramel, and tonka come together in espresso martini style.

Pair your drinks with snack plates from the Prefecture 48 kitchen, think comté custard tarts and shichimi-spiked quail, and you’ve got yourself a heck of an evening. Walk-ins are welcome from 5pm, but smart sippers should book ahead.

The Details

What: Folklore at Suntory Bar
Where: Whisky Thief, Prefecture 48, 230 Sussex Street, Sydney CBD
When: Wed 8 Oct, 5-11PM

What: Tokyo Confidential at Suntory Bar
Where: Whisky Thief, Prefecture 48, 230 Sussex Street, Sydney CBD
When: Tue 28 Oct, 5-11PM

So, whether you’re a highball devotee or just feeling a night that gives a mini morsel of Tokyo, these one-off events should not be skipped. Book a table, bring your mates, impress a date, and let Suntory Bar’s master mixologists do the rest.

For more on this limited-time residency, and to reserve a spot at either unmissable takeover, head to Suntory Bar.

Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by Suntory and proudly endorsed by The Urban List. To find out more about who we work with and why read our editorial policy here.

Image credit: Suntory Bar.