Acclaimed architecture firm Bates Smart has unveiled a transformative new dining experience in Sydney’s central business district with the launch of Prefecture 48. Developed for Azabu Group, this culinary precinct brings together six distinctive venues inspired by the beauty, heritage and flavours of Japan, all housed within the historic Foley Brothers building. Prefecture 48 isn’t merely a collection of restaurants – it’s a destination designed to transport diners on a sensory journey through Japanese culture, art and cuisine.

Bates Smart’s sleek design breathes new life into the Victorian-era Foley Brothers building, blending the structure’s rich heritage with contemporary Japanese aesthetics. 

From the outset, the goal was to create an environment that would immerse diners in layered narratives, with each venue adding a unique experience for the patrons. 

Bates Smart director Brenton Smith describes the project as “an entirely new offering in Sydney’s CBD,” emphasising that Prefecture 48 is “not just about the food but the stories that will stay with you long after you visit.”

The project’s artistic vision was conceived in collaboration with Studio Ongarato, which crafted a distinctive art strategy and signage concept for the precinct. Entitled “Floating World,” the theme was inspired by Japanese folklore, theatre and travel, creating an immersive narrative throughout. The transformation starts at the building’s entrance, where an old cartway has been reimagined as an elegant arrival point, setting the tone for a voyage through the precinct’s richly varied environments.

Character-driven dining spaces

Each of the six venues offers a singular experience, carefully crafted to evoke a different facet of Japanese culture and cuisine. On the lower level, Dear Florence is a whimsical patisserie dedicated to the art of dessert-making. The design is light and airy, a fantasy world brought to life by glossy wall tiles, glazed flooring and thick plaster finishes reminiscent of frosted childhood sweets. 

Conversely, in a collaboration with Studio Ongarato, Ibushi restaurant takes its inspiration from robatayaki, a traditional Japanese grilling technique. The venue’s dark timbers, soft fabrics and intricate overhead woven art emulate the sight of smoke rising from a robata grill, creating a dynamic yet atmospheric setting. Smith recalls, “We knew the conceptual narrative and told Studio Ongarato, ‘This is our idea of smoke’, and then we let them do what they do best, which is collaborate with artists and create a narrative for each of the spaces.” These immersive design choices invite guests to feel as though they’re experiencing an authentic Japanese grill house in the heart of Sydney.

At the rear of the precinct lies Whisky Thief, a modern whisky bar shrouded in an aura of mystery. The bar, clad in the same copper material used in the construction of whisky stills, is a tribute to Japan’s revered whisky culture, while the tattooed fabric of the lounge chairs pays homage to Japan’s Yakuza heritage. “With Whiskey Thief, we wanted to reference the underbelly of Japan and that new age cool that’s built into that,” Smith says. Hidden whisky cabinets and unexpected artwork surprises make Whisky Thief a place of intrigue, encouraging patrons to stay and explore its nuances. 

Ascend further within the Foley Brothers building to encounter three more venues – Garaku, Omakase and Five. Each space offers an elegant homage to Japanese culinary craftsmanship. From traditional omakase experiences to modern Japanese fusion, these venues continue Prefecture 48’s commitment to quality and authenticity.

A benchmark in immersive hospitality design

Prefecture 48’s ambitious vision is shared by Azabu Group, whose brand director, Cindy Tseng, views the project as an experience that goes beyond dining. “Dining is not just about food, but the entire experience,” Tseng notes. 

Prefecture 48’s design honours this philosophy, capturing the essence of “Every Japan” while respecting the heritage of the Foley Brothers building. Tseng and her team are proud of the synergy between Bates Smart’s vision and the Azabu Group’s commitment to creating memorable and culturally respectful spaces. “We were very respectful of the heritage of the building, and to that end we ensured the blend of Japanese fusion with Victorian architecture was done to curate moments where you’re letting the patron discover,” Smith says.

For Bates Smart, the project reflects a wider mission to enrich the fabric of Sydney by giving its historic architecture a new purpose. The project not only preserves the charm of the historic Foley Brothers building but also elevates it, transforming it into a cultural landmark that celebrates the old, while welcoming the new.

“Projects like Prefecture 48 allow us to add depth to Sydney and its existing city fabric. We’ve remade this Victorian building into a new place that people will love,” Smith says. 

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