Eight Melbourne Bars with Views for Days

Loop’s third storey rooftop terrace has long been a plant-filled oasis hovering above the city — and now it’s added another storey boasting panoramic city views, opening Loop Top on level four. The new bar has additional space for an extra 100 punters, on top of the existing 100-person capacity of Loop Roof below. The two have combined to create a split-level, sky-high oasis with a riot of prickly pear, bottle trees, bougainvillea, Hollywood mint and Madagascar dragons — and mammoth blue and yellow umbrellas.

Image: Eugene Hyland.

When you’re in dire need of some vitamin sea, head down to the shores of St Kilda and straight to the Stokehouse precinct. This Melbourne favourite was rebuilt just a few years ago after a fire burnt it down in 2014. While the fine diner sits upstairs for (very) special occasions, the more casual Pontoon boasts just as gorgeous ocean views and is much easier on your wallet (plus, you can head in straight from the beach). Eating fish and chips here on a summer evening is a Melbourne must-do.

Image: Simon Shiff.

Located underneath the Southbank Pedestrian Bridge, Ponyfish offers a truly unique experience. As it’s surrounded by the Yarra River, you can take a seat at one of the recycled timber tables, and enjoy both water views and people watching. The effortlessly cool and casual vibes of this bar extend from breakfast until late, with food and drinks to suit the atmosphere as you go. Listen to the sound of people walking above your head at this novel below-bridge location and watch the skyscrapers shimmering on the Yarra River just a few feet away.

The Espy’s reopening in late 2018 has meant that Melburnians can once again enjoy the seascapes of St Kilda while enjoying some of the city’s best live music. Stroll straight from St Kilda Esplanade, through the Espy’s majestic Victorian foyer and find a seat on the front terrace — it looks out over the water and St Kilda Pier. The ground floor is home to The Espy Kitchen, so you can easily grab a pint and some pub food. The Balcony Bar on level two has sweeping views of the whole bay — but that’s only available to book for a function.

Images: Alex Drewniak.

From the balcony of Naked in the Sky, fill your lungs with the clean air Fitzroy never thought it had and take in the lay of the land. It’s a refreshing escape from all the sirens and exhaust fumes of Johnston Street, while still maintaining prime position to watch a night of Brunswick Street fun unfold. The top-floor bar is cleverly divided into an indoor dining space and an outdoor drinking area. The partly-sheltered balcony loops the rooftop, making it a revolving conveyor belt of the Fitzroy crowd. The panoramic terrace ensures a visually pleasing view from any perch, whether it is the tower-studded skyline to the south, down to Clifton Hill to the north or east up to the Kew hills. The exposed brick facade, with lanterns strung up high between the gables, gives the air of a Spanish fiesta — perfect for both a troop of 20 or an intimate affair with a backdrop of city lights.

Take a stroll along South Wharf and, sandwiched between DFO and the Yarra River, you’ll find Common Man. Open from morning until late, this bar fosters an easy going vibe alongside a great menu and even better beverage list. Get ready to chill in the spacious outdoor area that doesn’t just have great views of the Yarra to offer, but also a fire garden in the colder months of the year that generates plenty of heat to keep you nice and toasty.

Care for a cheeky cocktail looking out over Melbourne’s pretty, pretty skyline? You should seek out QT Melbourne’s rooftop bar. This sky-high spot promises to serve up openair cocktails and brewskis every night of the week. To get to this high flying bar in the sky, just head to the hotel’s front door and you’ll be directed to the roof by staff. Best part? There’s no door charge. Just know that, while the bar is open until 1am, outdoor seating will only be available until 11pm.

Positioned within the bustling Federation Square, Transport Hotel and Transit Rooftop Bar are true Melbourne classics. Walking through the city you’re bound to spot the bright lights of this modern bar — however, the real view starts once you get up on the rooftop. With the Yarra and the city skyline below you, you can enjoy live music every weekend and the views day and night.