Bar Hanami has transformed the former Bad Mama site on Crown Street into a multi-level Japanese-inspired speakeasy that’s all about contrast.
Upstairs, a Sakura-inspired ceiling casts soft cherry blossom pink light over the 98-seat dining room. Downstairs, a hidden whisky dungeon built from an old boat creates an intimate, moody atmosphere accessed through its own discreet entrance.
Owner Adam Tremont brought his 17-year personal whisky collection to the venue, featuring rare pours like Glenmorangie Pride 1984 at $1,495 a shot. The cocktail list takes a playful approach with drinks like Fairy Floss Tingle and Lychee Sau Wau, all reworked through an Asian lens.
Chef Babita Jaishi leads the kitchen with Asian-fusion share plates influenced by her Nepalese heritage. Think wagyu cheeseburger spring rolls and seafood laksa xiao long bao, with halal-friendly dishes priced between $14 and $30.
Happy Hour runs 4pm-6pm Tuesday to Saturday, with $9 house wines, $10 Sapporo Beer, and selected cocktails at $16.
Quick Sips
- What to Eat: Wagyu cheeseburger spring rolls, seafood laksa xiao long bao, tempura nori tacos, and Asian-fusion share plates influenced by Chef Babita Jaishi’s Nepalese heritage
- What to Drink: Rare whisky pours including Glenmorangie Pride 1984 ($1,495/shot), playful cocktails like Fairy Floss Tingle and Lychee Sau Wau, Happy Hour specials: $9 house wines, $10 Sapporo Beer (500ml), $16 cocktails
- When to Go: Tuesday-Thursday 4pm-12am, Friday-Saturday 12pm-2am, Happy Hour 4pm-6pm Tuesday-Saturday
- Where: 403 Crown Street, Surry Hills
- Cost: Dishes $14-$30, cocktails from $16, rare whisky pours up to $1,495
- Vibe Check: Multi-sensory speakeasy with cherry blossom pink upstairs dining room and intimate hidden whisky dungeon downstairs built from an old boat
