Neon lights, kitschy cocktails and card tricks that will blow your mind? Where else but at the Maho Magic Bar, where the classic magic show is blended with Japanese bar culture, urban pop aesthetic and a stunning line-up of magicians straight from Japan.

Maho is a lush and vibrant bar sealed off from the outside world, adorned with cherry blossoms and mood lighting. It’s an exclusive and intimate setup with guests ushered into groups of six. Each of the Maho magicians takes turns moving to different stations to wow fresh pairs of eyes with their dazzling skills. Between tricks, the guests can order off the “special menu”, where a lucky attendee can take part in some silly physical comedy and visual gags. 

Some magicians would get by with simple “pick a card” hijinks, but these master illusionists aren’t content with simple tricks. You can expect masterful demonstrations of sleight of hand and feats of deception so ingenious it beggars belief. Their hands are quick, and their wits are sharp, making cards disappear and reappear so quickly it defies belief. Even the most savvy of audience members will find it hard to keep up with their blink-and-miss-it manoeuvres.

The crew behind Maho is a diverse and undeniably likeable bunch. Each one has a unique and charming personality that will enchant you with their cunning, charisma and penchant for deception. Last-minute addition Erica joins in as the enigmatic ring mistress of the night, who adds a touch of glamour to the line-up. Kaori is as mischievous as she is deft with a picture card summoning trick that left everyone at the table speechless. Colourful style icon E.O. Lee teases you with a finger cuff escape act that invites you to call his bluff, while he’s always three steps ahead. Shirayuri is a cheeky and rambunctious fellow with some impeccable coin tricks and an equally impeccable sense of swagger and comic timing. Shingo will have you gagging at his ability to sort cards into suits in record time - and gagging harder at his balloon swallowing trick. Barkeep and resident mixologist Comet also has a moment to shine with a rousing demonstration of her bottle juggling and cocktail stacking skills

If you haven’t experienced Maho before, you’ll be whisked away with an evening of excitement, intrigue and seriously good cocktails. An enduring favourite of the Garden for years, it’s a must-see for magic lovers and those looking for a unique bar experience. 

***** Five Stars