Suntory has partnered with acclaimed chef Khanh Nguyen (King Clarence) to bring a pop-up Suntory Bar to Sydney.

The exclusive one-week takeover of Itō in Surry Hills is open to the public from 13-17 November 2024. Guests have the opportunity to explore Suntory’s rich history while enjoying Japanese food and drink traditions.

Itō, a buzzy neighbourhood Japanese Izakaya restaurant in Crown Street, is treating guests to a bespoke four-course menu crafted by Itō executive chef Erik Ortolani in collaboration with Nguyen.

The timing of the collaboration couldn’t be better. The Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide 2025 was launched the night before the pop-up Suntory Bar opened, with both Itō and King Clarence scored their first-ever hats.

The limited-time menu has been designed to complement specially curated Suntory highball cocktails and signature Suntory
beverages. Diners can choose to book a spot at an expertly guided dinner or opt to enjoy the special food and drink menu over the weekend.

Each course – paired with Suntory favourites including Toki Whisky, Roku Gin, Jim Beam, -196 (Minus 196), BOSS Coffee and
more – heroes seasonal produce with classic Japanese elegance and vibrant flavours.

Menu highlights include chawanmushi with roasted chicken, Suntory Whisky, spanner crab, sweetcorn and brown butter.

“When we opened Itō, we wanted to showcase unique and exciting dishes that are respectfully created as the Japanese crafted them,” said Ortolani.

“For this reason, we couldn’t have been more excited when Suntory approached us to create this epic celebration inspired by Japan’s rich food and drink culture. We’re proud to be partnering with Khanh to bring their legacy and innovation to Sydneysiders in our week-long menu,”

Suntory Global Spirits’ Oceania marketing director Trent Chapman said: “This milestone pop-up marks 125 years of Suntory’s
leadership in drinks culture, bringing renowned brands from the House of Suntory, -196, Jim Beam, Canadian Club, Maker’s Mark, Laphroaig and BOSS Coffee to drinkers across the globe.

“We’re thrilled to be able to showcase the very best of Suntory’s unparalleled craftsmanship through this exclusive experience.”

Tickets for the bookable dinner seatings are limited and on sale now for $140pp, learn more here.

Tried and tasted

Drinks Digest attended the opening night of the pop-up and can confirm both the food and the cocktail pairings are next-level delicious.

We were particularly enamoured with the “snacks” – the Royal red prawn and nori rolls with sweet and sour miso mustard were to die for, as were the Ora King salmon with yuzu kosho and Yarra Valley caviar; and Hokkaido scallop with bergamot orange, wasabi and shiso.

Among the stand-out surprises on the cocktail list was the Minus 196 Spritz, with Minus 196 Double Lemon, Haku Vodka, yuzu and soda. Another favourite was the Laphroiag Yuzu Penicillin with Laphroaig 10 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Toki Whisky, yuzushu, lemon, ginger and agave. Sensational!