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
Quick Bites
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
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
VIBE CHECK: Multi-sensory speakeasy with cherry blossom pink upstairs dining room and intimate hidden whisky dungeon downstairs built from an old boat
