Overview
If you're a fan of rooftop bars or barbecue (or, better yet, both) prepare to have your day made. As we announced back in June, the Fancy Hank's BBQ crew are planning to open a dedicated, two-storey barbecue joint on Bourke Street, and now they've unveiled their plans for the rooftop bar that will sit above it: Good Heavens.
Set to open for trade in September, the new venue will feature a 100-seat downstairs restaurant and a brand new casual rooftop bar — unlike anything the Fancy Hank's guys have done before. The bar has chosen to champion brightly-coloured '80s-inspired cocktails (blue curaçao may be making an appearance) and barbecue snacks like spicy southern chicken ribs, chilli nachos and a seared and smoked lamb neck grilled cheese sandwich.
While Good Heavens will be a whole new concept, downstairs, the restaurant will be a bigger, better version of their venue at The Mercat. Co-owner Michael Patrick says the menu will feature their signature smoked meats, as well as a rotating vegetarian main, such as a smoked eggplant or sweet potato, as well as a few more surprises. "The sides will be a bit more considered as well — a bit more seasonal, a bit more made to order, a bit more interesting," he says. "And mains will be served up on platters, family-style — that's the way to go. We'll be adding a dessert cabinet too."
And when this new, heavenly door opens, the other one doesn't have to close. The Mercat will still serve your beloved Fancy Hanks, but it'll be a more casual, sandwich-based menu as the big smoker is moving over to the new Bourke Street kitchen.
Fancy Hank's and Good Heavens are slated to open next month at 1/79 Bourke Street, Melbourne. Keep an eye on their Facebook page for updates.
By Imogen Baker and Lauren Vadnjal.