Sunny al fresco spaces are hot property coming out of lockdown, so there's never been a better time for waterfront pop-up Pétanque Social to make its anticipated return for 2021–22.
Joining Crown Melbourne's riverside precinct from November 5 till the end of autumn, the open-air bar is inspired by the Tuscan countryside this year. While there'll be none of the namesake pétanque as part of this new incarnation, there will be lots of red cushioned day beds to unwind on, plenty of terracotta hues and a striking mural by local artist Melina McGough.
Here, you can kick back on cushy communal lounges and pretend you've been whisked far from home, as you sip summery cocktails and ice-cold brews, and listen to the roster of live DJs. Meanwhile, snacks rule the food offering, which celebrates some of Crown's best-loved kitchens — expect everything from Nobu's wagyu taco to 400 Gradi's famed pizza.
The bar's also showing off a renewed focus on sustainability this year, with an onsite kitchen garden, a rainwater collection system, solar panels and a series of 'energy bikes' that allow guests to charge their phone batteries using pedal power.
Pétanque Social will launch on Friday, November 5, opening from 4–11pm Thursdays, and 12–11pm Friday–Sunday.
