Sydney’s Best Happy Hours: Bar Hanami

Bar Hanami, a Japanese-inspired cocktail and whisky bar–restaurant, has opened at the former Bad Mama site in Surry Hills.

Introducing an Asian Fusion multi-sensory dining experience, the venue takes its name from the Japanese tradition of hanami, meaning “flower viewing”, and reflects this ethos through a space designed for slowing down, connection and discovery.

At its core, Bar Hanami has been designed as an antidote to Sydney’s high-energy bar scene, offering an intimate experience. The space seats 98 guests and unfolds across multiple levels, with a striking Sakura-inspired ceiling creating a soft, pink-lit canopy upstairs, while a hidden basement “whisky dungeon” delivers a contrasting, moody speakeasy feel.

Built from an old boat and accessed via a discreet entrance, the dungeon offers an intimate setting for whisky tastings and late-night conversations. Together, the spaces create a venue that feels both welcoming and transportive, appealing to guests seeking something more considered and experiential.

The drinks program is a central pillar of the venue, anchored by Owner Adam Tremont’s 17-year-old personal whisky collection and supported by a cocktail list that nods to 1990s nostalgia. Signature drinks such as the Fairy Floss Tingle and Lychee Sau Wau reinterpret familiar flavours through an Asian lens, designed to be both playful and memorable. Among the collection is the Glenmorangie Pride 1984, the oldest whisky from Tremont’s personal archive now available on the menu, priced at $1,495 a shot.

Leading the kitchen is Babita Jaishi, who brings six years of experience across Nepal and Sydney, including four years at Bad Mama. Her continuity within the space, alongside the retained Bad Mama team, brings a sense of familiarity to returning guests, while the menu itself reflects a new direction.

Developed by Tremont and refined by Jaishi, the offering blends research-driven creativity with lived culinary experience. Her signature Keema Beef Noodles anchors the menu with a personal touch, drawing on her Nepalese heritage. The restaurant’s menu is focused on Asian-fusion share plates, designed to complement the drinks program while remaining accessible.

Signature dishes include delicious Tempura Nori Tacos, Wagyu cheeseburger spring rolls and Seafood Laksa xiao long bao, alongside flavourful dumplings, buns and bar-friendly snacks such as crispy Chicken Karaage with yuzu mayo and Beef Bulgogi skewers. Other irresistible options include the classic Hanami Yakisoba and the vibrant Thai Chicken Cashew that comes bursting with vegies and crispy chicken. The menu is largely halal-friendly and priced between $14 and $30.

For locals, Bar Hanami is one of the best spots to enjoy Happy Hour which runs Tuesday to Saturday from 4pm to 6pm. Happy Hour Drink Specials include $9 house wines, $10 Sapporo beer (500ml) and $16 cocktails (Margarita, Spicy Margarita, Aperol Spritz and Charli San).

They’ve also just launched a bottomless dumpling deal for $40pp. The offer includes 90 minutes of unlimited steamed, fried and saucy bites served inside the venue’s moody, cherry blossom-pink speakeasy. Available from Tuesday to Thursday (5pm–8pm), plus Fridays and Saturdays (12pm – 3pm). Bookings are available from here.

Bar Hanami is an exciting addition to the Surry Hills hospitality scene. Blending Asian-fusion dining with an impressive drinks program, it’s a venue that demands a place in your culinary itinerary.

Bar Hanami
403 Crown Street, Surry Hills
Open Tue-Thu (4pm-12am), Fri-Sat (12pm-2am)

Images: Trent van der Jagt