SAKÉ THE ROCKS
- By Atal Hakikat
We’ve always loved this dining space and its even better since Melissa Collison sprinkled some of her interior magic throughout the site in 2014. Low lighting sets a luminous atmosphere and an exotic stretch of photographs is displayed on the back wall. The portraits depict a mysterious geisha, the perfect mascot for this enigmatic setting. Her voluminous ruby red lips glisten seductively and her petite shoulders are adorned with swirling tattoos.
As promised we find the coveted gin bowls on the first page of what is a very extensive drinks list, offering everything from Japanese craft beers to artisanal sakes. Out of interest we flip to the wines and champagnes and we must say there’s an incredible selection, the hallmark of restaurants under the Neil Perry / Rockpool Dining Group. There are three types of gin bowls on offer and purely as a service to our dear readers we had to try all of them! Subtle botanicals infuse these wonderfully embellished G&Ts, they are layered with delicate flavours and cradled in huge balloon style glasses that would be a work of art if they weren’t so easy to drink.
Tommy’s Haiku combines Poor Toms Sydney Dry Gin with Artisan Violet Blossom Tonic, hibiscus and chamomile tea, mint, dehydrated strawberries and juniper berries. We love juniper berries in gin so this is perhaps our favourite – although all three are delicious.
Our host Jose explains the best way to experience Saké’s food is by ordering a selection of starters. Well aware that Saké is one of Australia’s most awarded Japanese restaurants, we happily leave it to the kitchen to create us a platter. It arrives in no time and again there’s that picture perfect presentation synonymous with Saké’s reputation. The vegetable tempura with tentsuyu dipping sauce gives a satisfying crunch of crispy tempura batter. The mushroom, eggplant and sweet potato are standouts.
Jose made no secret that the shumai was his personal favourite, so we dive into these next. The steamed prawn dumplings are served with a spicy ponzu and they are delicious. Unlike most dumplings they have a shaggy exterior but these moorish parcels are ridiculously flavoursome – these come highly recommended!
Onto the spicy tuna sushi and we are hooked. The heat from the chilli is perfectly tempered with creamy mayo, and since it is also topped with roe, the combination adds wonderful texture and a salty fresh ocean flavour. Amazing… and who knew gin was the perfect match for Japanese?
When deciding what to wear when visiting Saké, think alluring opulence. We’ve linked some amazing camis below so you can go straight from work. Whether your wearing tailored pants or a simple pencil skirt you can just slip into the cami and head straight to Saké after a day at the office.
Gold statement earrings will also elevate your look so keep them in your office draw so your always prepared for those impromptu after work drinks.
The warm Sydney weather continues so by day you’ll see me dressed head to toe in neutrals with lots of creams, whites and caramels but at night I cant get enough of deep jewel tones. Navy is my new black (especially at work ) but how lux and gorgeous is this emerald green cami! I’m sorry to report it was the last one at Zara but silky camis are trending so there’s plenty of similar options out there. Unfortunately this exact bag is also hard to find also but the one linked is also a Minkoff and almost identical.
TOP by Zara (shop similar)
PANTS by Trenery
BAG by Rebecca Minkoff (shop similar)
SHOES by Nine West
EARRINGS (shop similar)
BELT by Gucci
We are loving the current trend of silky luxurious fabrics. Previously reserved exclusively for underwear or sleepwear they are now used in everyday slip dresses and camis. Now very much part of the essentials wardrobe these slinky feminine pieces sheen elegantly in the evening light and can be found across all price points. Seed has a beautiful selection in store of heavy weight fabrics that look delicate but will wash and wear well. On theme of catching the light we’ve also thrown in a sequin number from Witchery because if you’re going to Saké why not bring some bling!
PRETTY LITTLE THING rust cowl cami