Overview
Rooftop at QT has re-emerged from its chrysalis, and with it comes new drinks, a new vibe and a Mediterranean menu with a fresh coat of inspiration — and the same skyline vistas. After announcing a revamp earlier in spring, the venue relaunched in mid-October ready for prime warm-weather sips with a view.
First off, the drinks. Chris Stock, the man who helped Dandelyan in London strut to the number one spot on the World's 50 Best Bars list back in 2018, is at the helm — so you're in good hands. Expect a drink menu that pulls from old favourites but throws in a splash of the new.
Fancy a twist on the classic daiquiri? Go for the Son of Man, taking inspiration from Margritte's painting and infusing the drink with basil oil for a hint of aroma. And if you're after an espresso martini (we all love them, don't lie to yourself), there's an interesting variant on offer that utilises rye whiskey and orange and miso syrup.
On the food front, Nic Wood has returned to the QT chain after a stint in LA to take the helm of Executive Chef. He brings with him a Mediterranean menu encompassing everything from snacky delights to grand sharing platters that will, for better or worse, end up in a lot of your mates' Instagram stories. Expect snapper cannoli, fried mortadella sandos and lobster cocktails, plus ice cream sandwiches for dessert, to name just a few.
As for music, Rooftop at QT is going with day-to-night soundtracks, morphing easy chill daytime tunes into more energetic night-time beats, vintage disco and soul with a twist of the modern. Meanwhile, local artist Dwayne Hutton brings the walls to life with his art all about the space, including cool hand-painted wallpaper.
For those keen on ambience and vibe, designer Nic Graham ensured the interior facelift of the joint filled the shoes of its predecessor, and then some. He's serving up private booths, an intimate lounge, an outdoor bar, high banquet seating, a brand-new private dining room and tabletops with custom tiling.
Find Rooftop at QT at QT Melbourne, 133 Russell Street, Melbourne. It's open Monday–Wednesday, 3pm–late, and Thursday–Sunday, 12pm–late.