8 of the best rooftop bars in australia
Head up to Australia’s liveliest rooftop hangs.
by Jessica Wilkinson
Sitting high above the bustle of Australia’s cities, rooftop bars are ideal places for a pre-dinner drink or an after-dinner wind down and some can be hired exclusively for cocktail events. From bright and breezy to sleek and sophisticated, these alluring rooftops (and their panoramic views) will offer your group a unique perspective on urban Australia.
Slims Rooftop
Where: Darlinghurst, Sydney
Slim's Rooftop sits atop the historic Hyde Park House in Sydney’s inner-city suburb of Darlinghurst. Lush tropical greenery and potted cacti set the scene as you perch under the pink umbrellas, snack on Asian-inspired eats and order from a creative cocktail menu. Pull up a seat for a fantastic view over the grassy expanse of Hyde Park.
HENRY DEANE AT HOTEL PALISADE
Where: Millers Point, Sydney
The sleek and sophisticated Henry Deane is located at the top of Hotel Palisade in Sydney’s harbourside suburb of Millers Point. Its sky-high location means it offers up some of the best views in the city. Enjoy the incredible vantage point of the sparkling ocean and Harbour Bridge as you indulge in plates of mussels, prawns and scallops. Of course, a glass of bubbly is a must.
JOHNNY'S GREEN ROOM
Where: Carlton, Melbourne
Johnny’s Green Room is a rooftop reincarnation of the original Johnny’s – a good-time Carlton staple known for its all-hours parties. The Green Room is a little more refined – with 360-degree views of Melbourne, modern-day Italian snacks and an impressive drinks menu – but it has still retained its fondness for good times and good company.
FIUME BAR
Where: Brisbane
Brisbane’s Fiume Bar is the definition of understated glamour. The resort-style rooftop sits above the busy Howard Smith Wharves at The Fantauzzo Art Series Hotel and comes complete with an infinity pool and strings of twinkling lights. Sip on a spritz and enjoy panoramic views stretching across the Brisbane River and iconic Story Bridge.
MAYA
The bright and breezy MAYA will transport you to the tropics with its white-washed walls, stone and timber. Set among olive trees, MAYA is fuelled by a love of artisanal tequila and an appreciation of regional Mexican cuisine. Of course, no rooftop is complete without an epic view, and the sweeping panorama of Brisbane’s skyline doesn’t disappoint.
PRINCE LANE
Where: Perth
Prince Lane in Perth’s city centre is akin to a chameleon. Each floor has a different vibe, so there’s something for every occasion. The rooftop is where you go if you want to spend an open-air evening overlooking the city. The two areas on the top floor, the Deck and the Roof can be hired exclusively for up to 174 guests.
THE STANDARD
Where: Northbridge, Perth
Whether you’re after beers in the sun or cocktails under the stars, The Standard is your go-to. Tucked away from the bustling Perth suburb of Northbridge, this city escape is perfect for unwinding. Enjoy a locally brewed beer and a few snacks from the Asian fusion menu, and marvel at the Perth city backdrop. The venue can be hired exclusively for approximately 350 people.
2KW BAR AND RESTAURANT
Where: Adelaide
Sitting pretty on the eighth floor, 2KW Bar and Restaurant looks out across the River Torrens and beyond to the Adelaide Hills. This luxe bar has one of Adelaide's best selections of wine, with local and small production wines dominating the wine list. They pair perfectly with the menu’s local and seasonal produce - think fresh oysters, artisanal cheeses and hand-crafted cured meats.
