Roku Gin is bringing the enchantment of Spring in Japan to Auckland’s Mission Bay with a celebration of the temporal beauty of nature, and a nod to the rich traditions of the ancient culture.
Presenting a modern expression of a traditional Japanese festival at Azabu Mission Bay, a multi-sensory dining and gin tasting experience honours the annual ritual of welcoming Spring. Roku gin presents Hanami at Azabu Mission Bay is designed to delight and engage all the senses. Translated as “watching blossoms”, Hanami is the 1000 year-old Japanese tradition of observing the first of the cloud-like pink sakura flowers; thousands of people fill parks across the country, gathering for food, drink and festivities, to reflect the past year and celebrate a new beginning. It is also a time for harvesting, when local seasonal produce is at the height of its flavour and freshness.
The restaurant will transform into an immersive space that emulates the transient beauty of spring-time Japan. Diners will be seated amongst cherry blossom, while enjoying tasting menus and cocktails created to showcase the vibrant elements of Roku gin.
Enjoy signature drinks from the bespoke Roku spring cocktail list:
The Roku Spring Highball – Roku, rhubarb liqueur, hibiscus
Japanese G&T – Roku, tonic, ginger matchsticks
Roku Negroni – Roku, Italian bitters, vermouth, sakura
Roku Sakura – Roku gin, Lillet Rosé, lime juice, elderflower, orange blossom water, Prosecco, orange zest
Roku Suppai – Roku, peach liqueur, egg white, lemon, peach bitters, hibiscus syrup
Roku Haru – Roku, Kabosushu, Cointreau, thyme syrup, Thai ginger ale
Paired with fresh offerings from Azabu’s innovative menu, the experience highlights the coming of spring as a time to be revered, savoured and enjoyed!
Guests of Hanami at Azabu Mission Bay have the chance to win a trip for two to Tokyo Japan, including six nights’ accommodation and a tour of a Suntory Distillery (worth $10,500).
Roku Presents Hanami at Azabu Mission Bay, September 1 – November 27. Bookings essential via Azabu Mission Bay.
Guests can also book an additional exclusive experience during the celebration; a series of “Sip and Paint” classes in the iconic Stonehouse, where a Saturday afternoon can be whiled away painting sakura, accompanied by Roku gin cocktails and Azabu delicacies.
Tickets are available now via iTicket at $120pp – ticket includes four Azabu tasting plates and an all art materials provided painting class led by Ema Frost.
