Haru By The Sea

Get ready to spring into a sensational series of Sunday afternoons that are all about celebrating the early bloom of the season. For four consecutive Sundays, Saké Restaurant and Bar Manly will be serving a lineup of bespoke Roku Gin cocktails paired with a Japanese menu inspired by the freshness of spring (haru).

Picture this: an afternoon hosted in a light-filled bar area decked out with stunning floral displays begging to be photographed. As you enjoy the ocean views, indulge in three courses capturing the different stages of spring.

First up, Awakening. Sip a symphony of Roku Gin, tangy rhubarb and ginger cordial, zesty yuzu and prosecco. The tipple is paired with asparagus ohitashi with a kick of citrus karashi miso, yukari snapper with shiso paste and tomato miso, and tenderloin beef tataki with ginger soy.

The next course is Bloom. Start with the floral concoction of Roku Gin with Junmai Ginjo Sake, Cointreau, creme de violet, cherry blossom and leatherwood tonic. This is served with salmon yaki with den miso, tempura veggies and king prawns, chirashi sushi with spring veggies topped with cherry blossom flower pickle.

Last is Harvest. Roku Gin is blended with green tea umeshu, genmaicha lemongrass cordial and a burst of zesty lemon. To end this culinary journey on a sweet note, it is paired with shiratama zenzai dessert soup, matcha ice cream, mochi, red beans, and crispy sweet potato chips.

Mark your calendars because the festivities are from 12–2.30pm on the following Sundays: September 17, September 24, October 1 and October 8. All this goodness can be yours for just $149 per person, drinks included. Reserve your spot on the website now. The exclusive Roku seasonal cocktails will also be available to order from Wednesday, September 6 until Sunday, October 8.

Images: Brooke Zotti