Fable Melbourne

Overview

Fable is taking the concept of sky-high sips to a whole new level — at a lofty 14 storeys above Lonsdale Street, it has swiftly claimed the title of Melbourne's tallest rooftop bar.

The latest venture from hospitality veteran Gehan Rajapakse (The Sofitel, Hyde Bar, Rah Bar), it's a plush, Mediterranean-inspired affair. The space rocks an elegant fit-out, along with exceptional panoramic views on show through the bar's huge wraparound windows and retractable roof.

You'll also find a creatively charged menu of libations led by Bar Manager Chantalle Narith. It's a considered lineup with a penchant for storytelling and history, filled with many clever — sometimes cheeky — reworkings of the classics.

Expect two pages of martini variations, and a stiff scotch and brandy cocktail that pays homage to the Icarus myth which arrives at the table alight ("be careful not to get too close to the flame, or like Icarus, down you will fall"). Each page of the menu is a pleasure to read, and the cocktails are as good as they sound.

Meanwhile, Executive Chef Alex Xinis (Press Club) is plating up a Mediterranean-accented food menu with a taste for decadence. Match those sunset views with Yarra Valley trout caviar blinis, grilled halloumi with blistered grapes and sherry vinegar, or hot focaccia bites dipped in white taramasalata.

Aaron Francis

Images: Aaron Francis and Nicole Cleary