Sunsets and pizza, or cocktails and catch-ups, Melbourne's rooftop bars are the perfect spot for both coming into the warmer months.
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From secret spots hidden down alleyways to iconic venues serving up the city's best views, here are the best rooftop bars for 2025.
Mid Air
Level 12 / 130 Russell Street, Melbourne CBD
Image: Melbourne Place | Supplied
Perched 12 floors above Melbourne Place, Mid Air is where city views meet Mediterranean indulgence. Designed by acclaimed architects Kennedy Nolan, this rooftop oasis feels like stepping into another world—one where the golden light of sunset hits just right and the cocktails flow.
Take in the skyline at one of the tallest open air rooftop venues in Melbourne while you catch up with friends, enjoy a signature spritz or bubbles and consider the Mediterranean-led dinner menu.
We’re calling this, it’s going to be the spot of the summer. Book your table here.
Dal Zotto On The Deck
Level 7, 30 Timothy Lane, Melbourne CBD
Image credit: Dal Zotto on the Deck | Supplied
Dal Zotto on the Deck is a summer takeover by the famed King Valley winery of Melbourne’s hidden bar and grill, Blacksmith. And while decks aren’t technically rooftops, the seven-level climb reveals immaculate views that rival some of the best in town—so here it rightfully lives in this list.
For CBD punters on the hunt for a summer knock off spot that isn’t shoulder-to-shoulder full at 4pm, Dal Zotto on the Deck is a go. Better still, aperitivo hour is a three-hour thing, running from 4pm to 7pm—the post-work bev sweet spot. Sink $9 Dal Zotto wines and $7 beers, or we highly reckon you should dablle in Dal Zotto’s new signature Pucino Limoncello Spritz.
Gigi Rooftop
Level 2/917 High Street, Thornbury
Image: Umberto Group | Supplied
Sipping a chilled glass of vino, perched just a little higher in the sky— it’s the simple things in life. With summer on its way, Gigi Rooftop is back in action. Above Umberto Espresso Bar, this tiny, hidden Thornbury gem (and the only rooftop bar on High Street) promises gorg skyline views, refreshing cocktails, and all the laid-back vibes you need for a perfect sunny escape.
INSIDER INTEL
- Psst.. word on the street is that they’re having a launch party in November.
- We think you’ll hit it off with their Gigi spritz.
- Start the night off with the pinsa picante.
Morris House
120 Exhibition Street, Melbourne CBD
Oh, Carrie Bradshaw. You would have loved Morris House. (Seriously everything about this place screams NYC). This 1920s heritage building bar is as chic as they come easily contending for a spot as Melbourne’s best rooftop bar situation. Be it one of their five takes on margaritas, or a cosmopolitan, this joint is a must-visit.
INSIDER INTEL
- Each dish on the small goods menu comes served with house-made focaccia.
- Download the pass app to earn $10 off your first order.
- Drop down a few levels and check out the comedy club basement.
State of Grace
27 King Street, Melbourne
They say good things come in two. This is probably why the State of Grace rooftop covers two stories. You’re sorted with an array of grazing plates, sourdough pizza, and an extensive cocktail list all day. Time it right with the golden hour and you’re sorted.
INSIDER INTEL
- Have a field day with their ginormous pull-apart baked brie.
- They can neither confirm nor deny that they have a secret bar in a hidden entrance (from 5 pm Tuesday to Saturday).
- Snag a burger and pot for $25.
The Duke of Wellington
2/146 Flinders Street, Melbourne
Judging by the fact they have been serving out drinks since 1853 (and are Melbourne’s oldest licensed pub), it is safe to say The Duke of Wellington knows what they are doing. This iconic establishment features a spacious rooftop bar offering a view of the entire city skyline along with a diverse menu of pub classics and modern twist dishes.
INSIDER INTEL
- Try to spot the Forum, Fed Square, and Flinder Street station.
- They have $10 shots and house spirits from 9 pm Friday and Saturday.
- Bad news for all the indecisive folk out there, they have 22 options of beer on tap.
Mirror Mirror Rooftop Lounge
Level 3/209 Clarendon Street, South Melbourne
Image credit: Tiffy Group | Michael Pham
Mirror Mirror, a Snow White-themed rooftop bar above South Melbourne's Clarendon Hotel, is a must-visit for whimsical vibes and stunning city skyline views. This enchanting spot offers fairytale-inspired cocktails like the Poison Apple and Sweet Dreams, perfect for sipping while enjoying magical Melbourne vistas. Whether you're snapping selfies or soaking up the atmosphere, this bar is sure to make you feel like the fairest of them all.
INSIDER INTEL:
- Treat yourself a bargain bevvy between 3pm to 6pm with their daily $10 Happy Hour
- Curated by a Michelin-trained chef the snack menu changes with the seasons.
- Start your weekend right with their Fairest Of Them All Boozy Brunch going at $80 a pop.
The Beverly
24/627 Chapel Street, South Yarra
Image credit: The Beverly | Jake Roden
The Beverly is the ultimate Sunday rooftop destination in Melbourne, offering LA-inspired, poolside chic vibes with DJs and Instagram-worthy cocktails. Perfect for big events or casual after-work drinks, this stylish spot also serves up a playful menu of share plates like prawn ceviche with jalapeno cream, spanner crab pasta, and pulled pork belly ragu, making it ideal for long, boozy catch-ups.
INSIDER INTEL
- Their Sunset Scenes menu Monday-Thursday is a special set menu for the early birds between 4-6pm.
- You are going to soak up some epic panoramic sky-high views of Melbourne.
- They get their oysters from Boomer Bay in Tassie.
The Skinny Dog Hotel
155 High Street, Kew
Image: The Skinny Dog Hotel | Griffin Simm
- On Thursdays from 5pm, you can get a parma for $25 paired with a pot and your choice of seven toppings.
- Step it up a notch and enter your quirky parma topping to secure yourself a free Thursday night meal.
- Their Friday knock-off specials may take the cake for the cheapest in Melbourne—$5 house wines, $6 schooners and $7 house spirits.
Good Heavens
Level 2/79 Bourke Street, Melbourne CBD
Image credit: Good Heavens | Supplied
Perched above Fancy Hanks BBQ, Good Heavens is a must-visit rooftop bar for a top-tier feed and drinks. Their Americana-inspired menu—think BBQ corn ribs and smoked brisket party pies—brings a taste of Fancy Hanks to the rooftop. Pair your bites with an extensive drinks list featuring craft and tap beers, signature cocktails, and a robust wine selection. With plenty of spritz options perfect for Melbourne’s warmer months, Good Heavens is a go-to spot for casual catch-ups or all-out celebrations.
INSIDER INTEL
- Monday’s are always a drag except for at Good Heavens, offering an all day happy-hour.
- Explore the extensive Gin & Tonic menu that features a different distiller each month! PS. all G&T’s are a cheeky $8 on Wednesdays.
- Snap an epic pic for the gram in front of their neon-lit signage.
Madame Brussels
3/59 Bourke Street, Melbourne CBD
Named after an eccentric 19th-century brothel owner, Madame Brussels is the stuff of fairy tales. When you arrive up high in the sky (via seven flights of stairs or lift), you'll behold a garden party: think white wicker chairs and pink walls, opening up to one of the best rooftop bars and some glorious city views of Melbourne.
It's all about the cocktails here, with Pimms, rosé and punch brewed in teapots, plus a wide variety of cupcakes to put your sweet tooth into overdrive. This is one rooftop bar in Melbourne CBD you have to visit.
INSIDER INTEL
- In the chilly months you have to try their mulled wine and buttered rum, it’s perfect to warm you up—plus they hand out blankets and crank the heaters.
- Expect pink walls, green detailing, cottage core seating, astroturf and wonky pavements, all full of charm.
- No, it's not the AO, the staff are dresed up in classic tennis whites.
Hotel Esplanade
11 The Esplanade, St Kilda
Simply put, there is no other place like the Espy. St Kilda’s Hotel Esplanade has been an iconic establishment of the area since its inception in 1878. The Garden Terrace with a retractable roof is the perfect casual drinking spot for people watching or overlooking the amazing St Kilda Pier. Definitely a top contender for the best rooftop bar Melbourne.
INSIDER INTEL
- They offer a killer Sunday roast, dishing up a rotating menu of prime rib beef, rotisserie porchetta, and vegan and vego options.
- Snag a seat at the main bar and terrace for some coastal inspired cocktails, pints and pub classics with a view.
- Hint, there's a secret top floor where you can share a drink with the ‘ghost of Alfred Felton.’
The Cornish Arms
163A Sydney Road, Brunswick
Yep we’re counting this classic pub as a certified gold rooftop bar. We're struggling to think of a rooftop in Melbourne with better vibes and food specials. The best thing about the Cornish Arms is the location: rooftop bars in Brunswick are bloody rare, so this is some prime real estate.
INSIDER INTEL
- Get a stellar happy hour bevvy on the only rooftop bar Brunswick has on offer.
- Cornish Arms serves both omnivorous and vegan options including souvlakis all Monday long.
- Of course Saturdays see DJs on the roof, so you can sip and dance with a view.
HER Rooftop
270 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne CBD
Image credit: HER | Supplied
The top floor of iconic Melbourne venue HER is possibly the hottest real estate in town when the sun is out. With a chic Euro garden terrace feel, colourful mosaic artwork and a long-brass-stacked bar, it's an ideal spot to throw back their signature Paloma while you take in the CBD vista.
INSIDER INTEL
- We recommend pairing some rooftop cocktails with anything from their extensive Thai barbeque style share menu.
- If you’re chasing a group booking, snag yourself a lounge package which gives you access to an exclusive parapet area, heaps of food and a welcome cocktail.
- Just like Music Room, the rooftop attracts a crowd, so be sure to get there early.
Runner Up
Level 2/35 Johnston Street, Collingwood
This hidden rooftop bar isn’t coming in second place by any means. Runner Up, just across the courtyard from Hope St Radio in Collingwood Yards is a top contender for one of the best rooftop bars in Melbourne. The founders of Runner Up are the same as those behind Colour Club, Mildlife & Confetti Studio, so you know they know how to party.
With gorgeous views of Melbourne’s inner north and lots of nooks for a cute date night, dive into their generous cocktail menu with rippers like Old Passions or Negroni Sbagliatos.
INSIDER INTEL
- Don’t stress about bad Melbourne weather ruining your vibes, Runner Up has an awning and it’s still a vibe even when it's grim out.
- You won’t have to put any major dents in the wallet with drink specials on rotation constant, including lager, 2nd best red, prosecco, rose and white, all pouring at $9.99-a pop.
- Always prepare yourself for a hot DJ set at Runner Up.
Rooftop Bar
11/133 Russell Street, Melbourne CBD
Rooftop Bar atop Curtain House is a Melbourne classic, perfect for sunny Sunday sessions that seamlessly turn into evening hangs. With craft beers, seltzers, and cocktails on deck, it's an easy choice for an all-day hangout. The bartenders are ready to recommend house favourite cocktails, pair that with stunning CBD views and sunshine, and you've got the ultimate rooftop experience. Plus, Cookie and Toff In Town are just downstairs for afters.
INSIDER INTEL
- Be warned, the multiple levels of stairs did not come to play, take them at your own risk, you’ll be gasping for a well-earned pint at the top.
- Or, you know, take the lift (don't take the lift).
- There’s plenty of seating, a smoking area and when it's chilly, stacks of heaters.
Full Moon Fever
225 Johnston Street, Abbotsford
Image credit: Full Moon Fever | Jake Roden
Full Moon Fever is the perfect rooftop escape after a game of pool at Lulie Tavern. This retro spot channels 70s California vibes with desert-themed decor, re-used brickwork, and stained-glass windows. Overlooking Johnston Street, it’s all about laid-back charm with a menu featuring top-tier burgers, crispy fried chicken, and ice-cold tins. Whether you’re craving a bite or a refreshing drink, it’s a must-visit for rooftop hangs in Melbourne’s inner north.
INSIDER INTEL
- Hit up the next full-moon gathering on this rooftop, it’s not one to miss.
- Thursdays are sorted with $1 wings.
- Take the group chat to Trivia with a view on Thursday nights.
Bomba
103 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne CBD
Image credit: Bomba | supplied
Bomba Rooftop, nestled on Lonsdale Street, is a plant-filled oasis and one of Melbourne’s premier rooftop bars. With stunning views of the city skyline, this breezy open-air venue serves up a delightful array of tapas and top-tier cocktails. Their signature sangria carafes—available in red, white, and rosé—are perfect for sipping during golden hour while soaking in the vibrant city atmosphere.
INSIDER INTEL
- Get the full restaurant dining experience dished-up on the roof and pick between two set menus starting at $69.
- Take away the fuss of deciding what to drink and snag yourself one of their curated drinks packages.
- The charcoal grilled pork belly, with fennel and topped with mojo verde is a must-munch.
Union Electric Bar
13 Heffernan Lane, Melbourne CBD
If gin is your drink of choice, Union Electric is a must-visit rooftop bar in Melbourne. Nestled away off a laneway in the CBD, this hidden gem may seem low-key, but it features an impressive selection of gins that will delight any enthusiast. With immaculate rooftop vibes, it promises one of the finest gin experiences in the city. Perfect for sipping under the sun, Union Electric is the ideal spot to unwind and enjoy a refreshing drink.
INSIDER INTEL
- Happy Hour looks like $6 crodino spritz, $8 gins and $10 aperols.
- You can expect some loud shirts and old-school hip hop beats.
- Always go the chai guevara with coffee, house-made chai cream, and dark rum.
Johnny’s Green Room
Level 2/293-297 Lygon Street, Carlton
Image credit: Johnny's Green Room | Supplied
Johnny’s Green Room offers one of the most picturesque views of Melbourne’s skyline, making it a top contender among the best rooftop bars in the city. Snack on pizzas, slurp back a gelato-infused cocktail or take in the views, it's the perfect rooftop setting for a relaxed soirée with mates, cementing Johnny’s Green Room as a must-visit rooftop bar in Melbourne.
INSIDER INTEL
- Hustle a seat close to the edge so you can get that front-row seat kinda view of the skyline.
- Pizzas are off-tap, but the Gamberetti and funghi take the cake.
- You have not lived until you try the limoncello marg.
The Wolf’s Lair
Jimmy Watson Lane, Carlton
The Wolf’s Lair, tucked away behind the iconic Jimmy Watson's restaurant, is a hidden gem among Melbourne's best rooftop bars. It's unpretentious here and that's why we love it. This snug, upper-level garden bar offers an intimate atmosphere, with a drink menu that spans from classic favorites to more unique spirit concoctions mixed to perfection.
INSIDER INTEL
- This is the spot if you want a rooftop vibe without all the glitz and glam, but a whole bunch of charm.
- Get. The. Tapas.
- The smoked salmon pizza is a must.
Imperial Hotel
2-8 Bourke Street, Melbourne CBD
Situated directly across from Melbourne’s Parliament House, The Imperial Hotel boasts one of the best rooftop bars in Melbourne. If you’ve ever wondered what all the action is on the corner of Bourke and Spring, this is the spot. Known for its hearty pub feeds, proximity to other iconic watering holes, and stunning rooftop views, it’s the perfect hangout for a pre-drink session or an afternoon spent soaking in the city skyline.
INSIDER INTEL
- If you’re wanting to watch the footy in style, the rooftop is equipped with screens and scenes.
- Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays call for some live music on the roof.
- Start things off with the jalapeno croquettes.
Goldilocks
Level 5/264 Swanston Street, Melbourne CBD
Image credit: Goldilocks | supplied
Perched above the Denyer Building on Swanston Street, Goldilocks is a charming rooftop bar that perfectly captures a fairytale vibe. With a focus on sustainability, this intimate space specialises in local Victorian craft beers, wines, and whimsical cocktails. Sip on signature cocktails under twinkling fairy lights while enjoying a mostly vegan and vegetarian menu. Goldilocks offers a fantasy atmosphere, making it one of Melbourne’s best rooftop bars for unwinding and indulging.
INSIDER INTEL
- Spice your night up with a warming hot chocolate that’s spiked with your choice of liqueur.
- The Goldilocks boozy picnic gives you two-hours of free flowing beer, cider, wine and selected cocktails—plus some nibbles.
- The Papa Bear cocktail is a hard one to pass up—husk rare blend Australian rum, frangelico, honeycomb syrup, apple and lime.
Siglo
2/161 Spring Street, Melbourne CBD
Image credit: Siglo | Supplied
Siglo is a rooftop bar that’s all about exclusivity—if you know, you know. And if you’re willing to wait in line, you definitely know. Always ranking high on any "best anything in Melbourne" list, Siglo is renowned for its premium cocktails, from classic martinis to espressos, all served with stunning European-inspired views. For those feeling indulgent, grab a cigar and soak in the atmosphere, or head downstairs to the former Supper Club turned Greek restaurant Kafeneion for a meal that’s just as memorable.
INSIDER INTEL
- If you indulge in a puff, you can get Cuban cigars straight to your table.
- Lock yourself in for a long-one here, there’s a strict no bookings policy.
- The penicillin cocktail lives up to its name.
Naked in the Sky
285 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy
It wouldn’t be a list of the best rooftop bars in Melbourne if we didn’t add Naked in the Sky. If you’re looking for a reason to get you over to the Northside, it’s right here. Just above the ever-popular Naked For Satan, this rooftop spot is as devilishly good as its name suggests, with fabulous views of the city, delicious eats, long drinks and everything in between.
INSIDER INTEL
- The express lunch menu is killer, but don’t miss out on their baked camembert, topped with chilli and fermented honey…yum.
- They’ve got an extensive list of infused vodkas.
- If you’re chasing a rooftop venture, with that northside vibe, this is it.
Loop Roof
3/23 Meyers Place, Melbourne CBD
Located in Meyers Place, which is undoubtedly one of Melbourne’s best laneways, Loop Roof is a recent addition to the Melbourne rooftop bar scene. And it’s a bloody good one. Easily described as a garden oasis, they’ve got cocktails, drinks on tap, as well as curated bites and a mains menu. Hot tip? Upon leaving, make the most of Meyers Place and hit up Pizza Pizza Pizza downstairs for a slice… or two.
INSIDER INTEL
- Espresso martinis are perfect for a Friday knock-off, going for $20 all night long.
- Their poached pear dessert ticks all our boxes.
- Prepare for an extensive amount of vines, plants and hanging lights, perfect for a date spot.
Fable
13/168 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne CBD
Image credit: Fable | Supplied
Touted as Melbourne's highest rooftop bar, Fable and its sweeping views have been likened to the sky-high saloons of Tokyo and New York, but there's more to this spot than the view. Perched upon Level 13 overlooking Exhibition Street and QV below, the towering bar features a collection of seasonal cocktails from Alessandro Nardini as well as an incredibly solid in-house diner from celebrated Chef Alex Xinis.
INSIDER INTEL
- Golden hour provides your favourite cocktails being whipped up fresh for $15.
- The menu is not your most wallet friendly place, but there’s a reason the food comes with a price, so go with some cash at the ready.
- The chef’s set menu will leave you absolutely stuffed—it’s more bang for your buck.
Whitehart
22 Whitehart Lane, Melbourne CBD
Located at the end of Whitehart Lane and in between Little Bourke Street and Lonsdale Street, you’ll find one of Melbourne’s best open-air rooftop bars. Their taste is impeccable in every regard—we’re talking cocktails, set-up and to top it all off, they have a regular line-up of local DJs on deck. Make your way up upstairs to get that coveted rooftop spot.
INSIDER INTEL
- The view is sweet with kaleidoscopic visual projections and a bunch of graffiti, in true Melbourne style.
- If you’re chasing a spot for your next function, this joints rooftop space can hold bulk-bodies and be privately booked.
- +39 Pizzeria are slinging red-base and white-base doughy-goodness for you to enjoy on the rooftop.
Dom's Social Club
1/301 Swanston Street, Melbourne CBD
Image credit: Dom's Social Club | Kate Shanasy
Dom’s Social Club has cemented itself as one of Melbourne’s best rooftop bars over the past few years. Known for its laid-back, old-school vibes, Dom’s offers a trifecta of experiences across its three levels, with the rooftop being the crown jewel. From signature cocktails like the summer negroni to wood-fired pizzas under the Melbourne skyline, it's become a well-loved spot for locals.
INSIDER INTEL
- The hardwood floors and petite circular tables offer a cosy yet chic vibe for some rooftop cocktails.
- You can get a two-hour session of unlimited pizza, paired with three different snacks, for just $55-a pop.
- They spike their Creme Brûlée with amaro montenegro….it’s a must try.
Harlow
447 Church Street, Richmond
Image credit: Harlow | Supplied
They’ve got one rule at Harlow and it’s a simple one—good vibes only. Their happy hour is unreal and this unassuming spot in Richmond is close to trains, Victoria Street restaurants and most importantly one of Melbourne's best rooftop bars.
INSIDER INTEL
- Friday knock-offs at Harlow provide $9 schooners (schooners in Melbourne are a rareity), house, spirits and wines, from four until six.
- Bottomless Brunch with a Drag Queen twist, rumour has it that what happens at Harlow stays at Harlow during these sessions.
- Hump day dinner is sorted with schnitty night, offering a nice change from the pup-classic parma specials you see everywhere—don’t worry you can opt for a parma if that’s more your style.
Easey’s
3/48 Easey Street, Collingwood
A venue that’s got art, music, food, drinks and public transport tied together, Easey’s is well and truly the epitome of Melbourne. Get up there for burgers and cocktails in a train five stories above ground. One of the most unique and best rooftop bars Melbourne has to offer.
INSIDER INTEL
- There’s nowhere else you can crunch down some juicy burgers whilst perched on a rooftop in a vintage converted train carriage.
- The smoked hot dogs are legendary.
- There’s an extensive level of cocktail jugs—dependent on what kind of a session you’re locking in for.
The Gertrude Hotel
148 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy
Image credit: The Gertrude Hotel | Niki Schuch
You may have caught wind that The Gertrude Hotel has reopened it's doors after a suarve European makeover, but did you know it's hiding a rooftop bar above? You're welcome. Just head into the pub, down the back and up the stairs to discover this intimate sun-soaked space. You can order the entire food menu and all the staple drinks at the bar (pictured).
INSIDER INTEL
- Tuesdays call for $20 pizzas.
- Live jazz on a Sunday arvo is the perfect way to reign in the weekend.
- You can enjoy their full menu on the rooftop, so why not indulge yourself on a Monday evening with their 250g O’Connor Porterhouse Steak, with unlimited French Fries (yes they refill them for you) for only $25.
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