Sake’s Cherry Blossom Festival

Overview

In Japan there is a deep appreciation for the iconic cherry blossom (sakura) tree. The prevalence of the tree in the Japanese landscape signifies the commencement of spring, and is worthy of a national celebration. Festivities commonly include parties and picnics under the cherry blossoms.

In Australia, it's Sake Restaurant and Bar that's leading the appreciation for the cherry blossom, the spring season and a bit of Japanese feasting. For the month of September, they have organised a special food and drink menu and exclusive events. The festival includes executive chef Shaun Presland's signature spring menu ($88) and spring lunch menu ($38), a $15 sake flight with suggested food matches, and the Harajuku Pop-Up Bar, a fun and casual incarnation for the restaurant. Try the special cocktail, The Kimono Doll ($17), which shows off the tantalising flavours of ichiko shochu, cherries and coco.

If you want to go all-out, join the 24-seater Cherry Blossom Dinner (September 4 and 24 only, $120pp), which comes with matched sake, shochu and tea and includes courses like cuttlefish and urchin dashi jelly shooter, ocean trout and scallop tartar with truffle ponzu and caviar, and chirashi sushi rice bowl.