Pretend you’re in the land of sushi and sake at The Rook’s Cherry Blossom pop-up rooftop bar.

Maybe you had a trip booked but had to cancel. Perhaps you’ve been planning to visit for years and have been waiting for another Jetstar sale. Whether you’ve visited before or had this spot on your bucket list, Japan is a must-see travel destination for many of us. And while jumping on a plane and swinging by for cherry blossom season is off the cards, this Sydney bar is bringing a slice of Japan’s most iconic blooms to the heart of the CBD.

That’s right, The Rook has transformed their rooftop cocktail bar into a blooming beauty with the launch of their Cherry Blossom Garden. From June to September 2020, The Rook will be celebrating Japan’s most Instagrammable season with lush floral interiors. Expect to be transported to the streets of Japan with epic cherry blossom installations at every turn.

These bright pink florals set the tone for a memorable cocktail experience, with The Rook also putting on an exclusive menu of Japanese-inspired eats this winter. Head to the rooftop and get ready to chow down on a flavourful selection of bites to accompany your well-made drink.

Start with a plate of loaded gyoza (topped with furikake, tonkatsu sauce, kewpie and bonito flakes) and a half dozen grilled QLD scallops before moving onto large plates such as their cold ramen noodle salad, pork katsu and Koji marinated flank steak served with broccolini and fries.

As for drinks, expect a curated menu of Japanese-inspired mixes including cocktails like the Matcha Fizz, Sake It To Me and Sakura Spritz along with a selection of Japanese spirits, beers and cider.

The Rook’s Cherry Blossom Garden is open now and running until September 2020. Find out more and book your spot here.