Nothing delivers unparalleled mastery of a single pursuit like the dedication of an entire century to it. So it is with Japanese whisky and the House of Suntory, which in 2023 is marking its centenary – that’s 100 years of nothing but the finest whisky flowing from the label’s home in Osaka. To celebrate this incredible milestone, Australian whisky lovers are invited to join the House of Suntory for a series of exclusive ‘Suntory Time’ dinners being held in Sydney and Melbourne, each of which is guaranteed to deliver a once-in-a-lifetime whisky experience for those in attendance. Read on to discover how you can be one of those lucky few.
The House of Suntory’s meticulously crafted whiskies come immersed in history and tradition, with every sip backed by a 100-year legacy of unwavering dedication, craftsmanship and passion. All of this will be on full display at every ‘Suntory Time’ dinner, hosted at one of five elite Sydney and Melbourne dining establishments. Using Suntory’s whiskies as a starting point, each partner restaurant will serve up an exquisite pairing of flavours that unlocks hidden depths within each sip of Suntory’s incredible offerings.
Every one of these events will be entirely unique, celebrating the Suntory century with a gastronomic experience as innovative and bold as the iconic whisky maker itself. But seats are limited, so explore the list of premium events below and secure your ticket for a night you’ll never forget.
Kisume – Melbourne, Aug 22nd
Hosted by National Suntory Ambassador James Buntin in Kisume’s Kuro private dining room, the first event in the ‘Suntory Times’ series starts things off with a bang. As the RCA Awards 2022 Japanese Restaurant of the Year, Kisume’s culinary credentials are the very definition of elite, as is the menu the restaurant’s chefs have curated. Pricing is AUD$595 per person.
Toko – Sydney, Aug 30th
Again hosted by National Suntory Ambassador James Buntin, this specially curated five-course tasting menu, courtesy of Toko’s Executive Chef, will be paired with five sensational Suntory whiskies, delivering an experience that will not be forgotten. Pricing is AUD$590 per person or you can secure a VIP booth for up to four people for AUD$3,000.
Zephyr Sky Bar – Sydney, Sept 7th
Those looking to pair their tasting of Suntory’s world-class whisky with a similarly world-class outlook will want to secure tickets to this night of opulence at Zephyr Sky Bar, boasting Sydney’s spectacular Darling Harbour as its backdrop. There, guests will enjoy two premium cocktails on arrival—choosing from Suntory’s Haku Vodka, Toki Whisky, and Hibiki Whisky—followed by a tasting of the Yamazaki 18 Year Old and a range of irresistible Japanese-inspired canapés. Pricing is AUD$100 per person.
Saké Restaurant & Bar, The Rocks – Sydney, Sept 12th
In a private dining room within one of Sydney’s most esteemed eating destinations, attendees will enjoy an exquisite five-course menu, plus canapés, as prepared by Saké Brand Chef Shimpei Hatanaka. These will be accompanied by six whiskies to mark Suntory’s 100-year the milestone, along with two whisky cocktails. Pricing is AUD$395 per person.
Hyatt Regency, Lobby Lounge – Sydney, Sept 21st
In an intimate space wrapped in nautical rope that pays homage to this revered venue’s harbourside location, guests will luxuriate as they indulge in five Japanese-inspired courses prepared by Hyatt Regency Sydney’s Executive Chef. Each of these will be perfectly paired with a premium Suntory spirit, including legendary whiskies like the Yamazaki 18 Year Old and Hibiki 21 Year Old. Pricing is AUD$375 per person.
Yugen – Melbourne, Oct 5th
While the details for the fifth and final ‘Suntory Time’ dinner are yet to be released, guests can anticipate an intricately curated gastronomic journey courtesy of this subterranean dining destination. Yugen’s finest will pair Suntory’s limited-edition whiskies with an extraordinary range of cuisines, elevating both and thrilling the senses. Pricing is yet to be announced.
No matter which of the five ‘Suntory Time’ events you choose to attend, you’ll be in for an unforgettable experience that pairs Japan’s finest whiskies with some of the greatest food Sydney and Melbourne have to offer. To discover more about why the House of Suntory continues to be such a special label after 100 years of whisky-making excellence, explore the full Suntory range via the link below.