Cuisine
Modern Australian
Photo: Strato Melbourne
Overview
In short:
Elevated 139 metres above Southbank, on the 40th floor of the opulent hotel Oakwood Premier Melbourne, Strato offers two unique experiences at one Melbourne address.
Food & Drinks:
The restaurant menu is best described as contemporary modern Australian, boasting seasonal and locally sourced Victorian ingredients, offering a glimpse into an organic Melbourne culinary experience. Indulge in starters like 'Wagyu Steak Tartare' and 'Scallop Crudo', large plates like 'Goldband Snapper' and 'Fig Glazed Chicken', or go for a 'Wagyu Rib Eye Steak' from the grill. Complemented with both local and international wines, as well as a heavenly drinks menu, Strato is the place to go for a special and elevated Melbourne dinner.
What we think:
This sky-high venue opened its doors in July 2022 (we've been here twice since) and presents a dining and bar setting like no other, filled with glamorous furnishings and extraordinary 360-degree views, reaching far over Port Phillip Bay, across the Yarra River, CBD skyline and beyond. Here you find Strato Restaurant & Dining, a romantically modern space seating up to 100 guests, with its own private bar made from a stone benchtop and a filtered glass bottom that is subtly lit. Choose between booth or table seating while enjoying incredible views of Port Phillip Bay.
Dress code:
The Strato Melbourne dress code is smart casual.
Also featured in:
32 Best Rooftop Bars in Melbourne
Our insider tip
- For lighter bites and more drinks, head over to Strato Bar & Lounge, holding both an impressive 16-metre stone bar, and an alfresco terrace perfect for warmer nights.
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Photo: FABLE Melbourne
Overview
In short:
With a 13th floor location in the heart of Melbourne, the rooftop comes surrounded with an amazing view over the city skyline.
Food & Drinks:
FABLE Melbourne is the most elevated spot in town to enjoy the best of Mediterranean vibes. Created by Executive Chef Alex Xinis, the seasonal Mediterranean food served is full of flavour and designed to share. Complemented with a carefully curated cocktail selection, FABLE is open most nights to dine and drink high above Melbourne, and during Saturday's also for rooftop brunch.
What we think:
One of our favorite rooftop restaurants in melbourne when it come to vibe and view! The modern and sleek design also offers a feeling of New York state of mind meeting the quintessential Melbourne. We'd recommend all reading this article to come here. You won't be disappointed!
Dress code:
The FABLE Melbourne dress code is smart casual.
Also featured in:
32 Best Rooftop Bars in Melbourne
Our insider tip
- Open nightly from Wednesday to Sunday, you can visit for an after work, a romantic dinner or some late night cocktails. And while walk-ins are welcome, reservations are encouraged to avoid disappointment.
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Cabinet Bar and Balcony
Cuisine
Tapas / Flatbreads
Photo: Cabinet Bar and Balcony
Overview
In short:
Tucked behind Little Collins Street, next to Melbourne Town Hall, Cabinet Bar and Balcony is a retro-chic & Parisian-inspired laneway bar, inviting to cocktails, wine, food and good company.
Food & Drinks:
Open most evenings, and on weekends from around noon, here you can indulge in carefully chosen wines, crafted signature cocktails named after regular customers, and a local brews, perfect to pair with some of the delicious tapas, or something from the ever changing flatbread pizza menu. Made to share, options range from 'Spiced Pulled Chicken & Cos Mini Subs' and 'Fried Halloumi with Honey & Thyme Drizzle', to 'Roasted Pumpkin Hummus with Pine Nuts & Spinach Flatbread'.
What we think:
Maybe not the most spectacular rooftop in Melbourne, but still one of our fvorites. The cozy terrace and delicious food makes it worth coming here. We also love to watch the streets below, as it's always happens something down there. Set over two levels, this mid-city oasis features a charming interior space downstairs, complemented with an equally lovely outside balcony rooftop upstairs, overlooking all the action on Swanston Street.
Dress code:
The Cabinet Bar dress code is casual.
Also featured in:
32 Best Rooftop Bars in Melbourne
Our insider tip
- From sunset sips and pre-theatre dinner and drinks, to chill Sunday sessions in the sun, Cabinet Bar and Balcony is always a great spot for vibrant flavours in an intimate and friendly atmosphere.
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Photo: Hobsons Bay Hotel
Overview
In short:
Located in the Williamstown suburb, south-west of Melbourne's CBD, Hobsons Bay Hotel is a three-storey pub, mixing a rustic charm with a modern setting.
Food & Drinks:
At the cosy main dining room you can enjoy a seasonal menu derived from some of the best food and ingredients Melbourne has to offer, with plenty of the dishes made at the woodfire grill and rotisserie in the open kitchen. The public bar and rooftop serves a more classic pub-style menu, including Minute Steak with Shoestring Fries, Lightly Battered Fish & Chips and the HBH Cheeseburger. The food is complemented with tap cocktails and wine, as well as a large selection of classic and local craft beers.
What we think:
Open daily from afternoon / lunch to late, Hobsons Bay Hotel mixes a high-quality venue with a friendly neighbourhood atmosphere, and the 100-seat rooftop is a great spot to enjoy sunny or sunset drinks and bites with a view. Surrounded with panoramic views over Williamstown, Port Phillip Bay and the complete Melbourne skyline, the Hobsons Bay Hotel rooftop is open and airy for breezy sessions during summer, but also comes with complete protection and a cosy heater for the more chilly months.
Dress code:
The Hobsons Bay Hotel dress code is smart casual.
Also featured in:
32 Best Rooftop Bars in Melbourne
Our insider tip
- There's also plenty of weekly events, like the Thursday 'Trivia on the rooftop'.
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Photo: Bomba
Overview
In short:
This Spanish restaurant and rooftop bar can be found in the Central Business district of Melbourne and offers beautiful views of one of the busiest areas of the city, while still providing a sense of calm and relaxation.
Food & Drinks:
Downstairs, you can enjoy a cozy atmosphere and a fantastic tapas atmosphere, while at the rooftop you can find expertly-mixed cocktails, excellent Spanish wines, unique Gin & Tonic combinations, and a beautiful collection of beers. Bomba also have sangría on tap, a true novelty in the city.
What we think:
While the streets surrounding Bomba can be pretty busy, the rooftop offers a relaxing and lovely Spanish setting and vibe, complete with a retractable roof and comfortable seating options, making it an excellent alternative for those looking for a break at work, or a night out with friends.
Dress code:
The Bomba dress code is smart casual.
Also featured in:
32 Best Rooftop Bars in Melbourne
Our insider tip
- A rooftop perfect for hosting private events on. Up to 100 guests can fit up here.
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Photo: Captain Baxter
Overview
In short:
One of few beachside venues on this list, Captain Baxter was refurbished a couple of years ago and has quickly become one of the hottest spots in the city.
Food & Drinks:
Matching its location, Captain Baxter serves a seafood focused menu, overlayed with subtle Asian influences. The food is complemented with a long list of expertly crafted cocktails, wines, and beers.
What we think:
Delicious food, fresh cocktails, and jaw-dropping views of the ocean make any visit to Captain Baxter one to remember, but if that isn't enough, this fantastic rooftop venue also offers a peaceful yet classy atmosphere that you're sure to love. Tasteful music, relaxing vibes, attentive staff, and more make Captain Baxter one of the best rooftop restaurants and bars, and no visit to the city is complete without watching a sunset from this venue.
Dress code:
The Captain Baxter dress code is casual.
Also featured in:
32 Best Rooftop Bars in Melbourne
5 Best Rooftops in St Kilda
Our insider tip
- Enjoy seaside dinners, or a sunny 'Baxter's Long Lunch' during weekends.
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Photo: Transport Hotel
Overview
In short:
Found right by Federation Square and the railway station in the heart of the CBD, Transport Hotel is somewhat of a Melbourne institution, offering several floors of food, drinks, fun and events.
Food & Drinks:
Starting with the ground floor Transport Public Bar, where you can catch a game on the big screens, listen to some of Melbourne’s best live music, or enjoy a menu filled with modern pub classics and Asian inspired street food, preferably at one of the three outdoor areas. For more elevated eating, head up to the second floor Taxi Kitchen. While this stylish yet relaxed venue is all indoors, the panoramic windows means you can indulge in a modern Australian menu with a distinct Asian influence, all to fantastic views over Melbourne’s skyline and the Yarra River.
What we think:
We love this rooftop! It's vibrant, it casual and the skyscraper views are superb. Transit Rooftop Bar is mixing indoor and heated al fresco seating, and offering the very best views Transport Hotel has to offer.
Dress code:
The Transport Hotel dress code is smart casual.
Also featured in:
32 Best Rooftop Bars in Melbourne
Our insider tip
- Mostly know as a venue for stylish cocktails and jumping live music, the rooftop also offers a nice selection of food. From small plates to hot sandwiches and pizzas.
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Photo: Imperial Hotel
Overview
In short:
Don't be confused by the name; the Imperial Hotel isn't a hotel, but rather a three stories pub, as well as one of the oldest pubs in the city.
Food & Drinks:
Since the Imperial Hotel is a classic pub, it features a staggering collection of beers, but also cocktails and delicious and innovative pub food. From pizza and burgers to salads and dishes from the grill.
What we think:
While the entire building is dedicated to eating and drinking, the rooftop terrace is the crown jewel, as it offers a fantastic view of the city and a lively atmosphere that keeps visitors returning for more. The atmosphere is laid-back yet classy, with no airs of grandeur. People who visit the Imperial Hotel do it to drink, eat and have fun, and that's precisely what they get.
Dress code:
The Imperial Hotel dress code is casual.
Also featured in:
32 Best Rooftop Bars in Melbourne
Our insider tip
- The wooden deck terrace offers numerous seating options, large umbrellas to protect guests from the elements, outdoor heaters during the weekend, and a stylish outdoor bar.
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Photo: Good Heavens
Overview
In short:
Perched on top of the famous American BBQ restaurant Fancy Hank's, Good Heavens is mainly known for its creative signature cocktails and lively atmosphere.
Food & Drinks:
Indulge in Smoked Brisket Party Pies or Cheeseburger Spring Rolls, or dig into some Mortadella Open Sliders, all while taking in the beautiful views of Melbourne's skyscrapers and Bourke Street just below.
What we think:
Good Heaven's atmosphere is casual yet energetic, with live DJs showing off their skills and people mingling and dancing to the sound of music. Chances are you won't be paying attention to the view only, as the bar's decoration is so colorful and charming it's bound to catch your attention. Pastel colors, bright pink signs, Hawaiian shirts on the staff, and eclectic furniture make this rooftop bar one you won't forget, and the retro-inspired signature cocktails are both creative and delicious.
Dress code:
The Good Heavens dress code is casual.
Also featured in:
32 Best Rooftop Bars in Melbourne
Our insider tip
- If cocktails aren't your thing, you can also find beers on taps and a decent selection of wines, so chances are you'll find something you'll like.
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Photo: Blossom Rooftop Bar
Overview
In short:
Blossom Rooftop Bar is a modern and urban addition to the Melbourne rooftop scene, located on the 14th floor of the Pullman Melbourne City Centre, high above the CBD.
Food & Drinks:
High above the CDB, here you can enjoy wood-fired pizza, bar snacks, signature cocktails, local wines and beers, complemented with a live DJ on Fridays and Saturdays from 6-8pm.
What we think:
What not to love about Blossom Rooftop? We loved most about it. The perfect spot for an Afterwork or just some evening cocktails. Bound to become a hot-spot for buzzing and sky-high Melbourne outings, Blossom is also available for private functions, weddings and corporate events, with stunning views and 5-star service.
Dress code:
The Blossom Rooftop Bar dress code is smart casual.
Also featured in:
32 Best Rooftop Bars in Melbourne
5 Hyped Rooftop Bars in Melbourne
Our insider tip
- Check out the live DJs on Fridays and Saturdays.
- The rooftop can be booked for special events.
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Photo: Ellora St Kilda
Overview
In short:
Set over two levels on Fitzroy Street in St Kilda, Ellora is a chic and vibrant venue perfect to enjoy a mix of drinks, bites and views.
Food & Drinks:
A weekend hot-spot, Ellora offers a generous, creative and refreshing selection of food and drinks. Cocktails, wine, sparkling and beers are paired with a modern array of house pizzas and tapas perfect to share. The food menu includes everything from chippies, Tacos, Caprese Bruschetta and Arancini 2 Ways, to a Fishermans share platter with beer battered fish, calamari rings & crumbed prawns.
What we think:
With a great and friendly ambience and service, Ellora is perfect for both couples looking for an intimate evening out, and a groups of friends looking to socialise with bites, drinks and views. Housing an impressive and bright interior, the tru gem is the covered balcony rooftop terrace, where you get spectacular uninterrupted views over Port Phillip Bay.
Dress code:
The Ellora St Kilda dress code is smart casual.
Also featured in:
32 Best Rooftop Bars in Melbourne
5 Best Rooftops in St Kilda
Our insider tip
- For earlier and sunny sessions, every Saturday & Sunday also means 'Bechside Bottomless Brunch'. From 1pm to 3pm, you can indulge in a menu including cocktail on arrival, bottomless wines, mimosas and tap beers, and a set food menu with seasonal fruits, danish pastries, brioche omelette, assorted bagles and fritters.
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Price
Small plates: $8-24
Photo: The Q
Overview
In short:
The Quincy Hotel brings the essence of South East Asia to Melbourne, and it does so all the way up to the very top, with the elevated and modern The Q.
Food & Drinks:
The Q rooftop menu includes a great selection of creative and crafted signature cocktails, but it also offers some delicious Asian-inspired small plates. From 'Roasted pork belly bao' and 'Vegetable spring rolls' to 'Mekong chicken ribs', the food is made perfect to share.
What we think:
Perched high, high above the bustling streets of Melbourne CBD (28 floors above to be exact), this stylish indoor/outdoor venue comes surrounded with epic skyline views, right among the city skyscrapers. So bring a loved one or some friends and enjoy a unique Melbourne rooftop experience. After food and drinks, you can stick around for a pulsing and energetic bar experience continuing well into the night.
Dress code:
The The Q dress code is casual.
Also featured in:
32 Best Rooftop Bars in Melbourne
Our insider tip
- Visit the rooftop Wednesday to Saturday 4-6pm for 'Happy Hour', with $8 beers and wine, $15 margaritas and $10 G&T’s, or for the Wednesday and Thursday 'Sky High Mid-week Saver', where you can enjoy the sunset with an extra 20% off your bill from 4pm-6pm.
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Rikard has spent the last 10 years exploring, enjoying, researching and working with rooftop venues. During these years he has visited more than 700 rooftops across the globe. The experience he has gained is used to create helpful, in-depth and accessible content, and to share his knowledge and rooftop expertise with fellow rooftop-lovers.
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