- Prefecture 48 arrives with the lofty ambition of delivering an entire country’s culinary essence in the form of six unique venues.
- Azabu Group has assembled a heavyweight lineup for each of P48’s venues: ranging from Derek Kim (Tetsuya) and Akira Horikawa, to Tomoyuki Matsuya (Kame House) and Aoife Noonan.
- This hotly anticipated hub, located on Sussex Street, is set to open on October 11th, 2024.
Australia’s travel-to-eat crowd will no longer have to fly 10 hours for an authentic (and comprehensive) taste of Japan. They’ll just have to hang around Sydney CBD.
It’s all thanks to Azabu Group which, after three years of enlisting world-renowned culinary artists, is preparing to launch its most prestigious project to date with Prefecture 48 (‘P48’).
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In a nationwide first, Sussex Street is welcoming a three-level dining precinct that boldly claims to cover all 47 prefectures of Japan — it bills itself, somewhat wryly, as “the 48th” — via six vital organs: four restaurants, a patisserie, and the virtually obligatory whisky bar, housed entirely in a heritage-listed Victorian warehouse.
Along with beverages curated by the award-winning The Maybe Group (of Maybe Sammy fame), true to the Japanese hospitality group’s promises, it’s certainly shaping up to be an “orchestra” of culinary delights.
Each venue showcases its own distinct character, drawing inspiration from the ‘Floating World’ or Ukiyoe — “a theme that epitomises the refined lifestyle of Japan during the Edo period” — and are as follows:
- Garaku (Kaiseki)
Led by ex-Tetsuya Executive Head Chef Derek Kim
“The headliner for P48 — an exquisite theatrical Kaiseki dining experience, with every dish an artisanal interpretation of the four seasons for a truly enchanting moment.” - Ibushi (Robata)
Led by Executive Chef Takashi Yamamoto & Head Chef Chris Kim
“The vibrant and energetic robata within the precinct, paying homage to the lively Tokyo street and social gathering spots after dark.” - Omakase
Led by Omakase sushi master Akira Horikawa (Ginza Kyubey) & Tomoyuki Matsuya (Kame House)
“A luxurious and most exclusive intimate eight-seated venue, truly heroing the exceptional cuisine for ‘one bite magic.’ This venue will also have a rotation of celebrated guest chefs.”
- FIVE
Led by Head Chef Hiroshi Manaka, ex-Charlotte Bar & Bistro (Azabu Group)
“Modern European reimagined with Japanese finesse, experienced the five core elements expressed in the menu: taste, colour, cooking, moderation, and senses.” - Whisky Thief (Whisky Bar)
Curated by The Maybe Group
“Exclusive bar captives both seasoned whisky enthusiasts and newcomers alike, along with creative cocktails to impress every palate. With bottles hidden in secret spots and bathroom doors, a (secret) solid gold skateboard, it’s more than just a bar.” - Dear Florence (Patisserie)
Led by Executive Pastry Chef Aoife Noonan
“Named after the Founder’s daughter, this patisserie is more than just delectable creations of cakes, chocolates, and souvenirs, but a connection between father and daughter.”
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“Prefecture 48 is a once-in-a-generation hospitality experience that invites Sydney and Australia to fully immerse themselves in the culinary and cultural marvels of all six venues which will launch cohesively on the same day,” said Celine Tran, Azabu Group Director of Operations.
“Our team has meticulously curated the finest aspects of Japanese tradition, transforming them into a unique experience that both locals and international visitors can savour and take pride in.”
Prefecture 48 by Azabu Group officially opens its doors on October 11th, 2024. To learn more, or secure a booking, head to the website below.
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