Garden State Hotel, the reliable, always-bustling, fuss-free Flinders Lane pub, has been given a glow-up just in time for the warmer months. The massive, multi-storey, sprawling venue has added to its already massive digs with a two-tier rooftop garden. Garden State is located at 101 Flinders Lane, inside a 130-year-old building that began its life as a sawmill before playing host to Rosati, one of Melbourne's top dining destinations in the '80s and '90s. In the centre of the building, punters gather at the multi-level beer garden built around several large ficus trees. Lush greenery and a seamless indoor-outdoor feeling help transport patrons away from the hustle and bustle of the CBD. The Public Bar is a favourite post-work hangout for many city workers who come here for a carefree, good time. Pub classics like chicken parmas, pizzas, burgers and fish and chips are complemented by elevated snacks such as grilled halloumi with capsicum relish and kingfish crudo with pickled zucchini, as well as dishes including oven-baked ricotta gnocchi and salmon Nicoise salad. On the basement level, you'll find The Rose Garden, a vibrant, late-night cocktail bar, accessible through AC/DC Lane and Duckboard Place. Find live music and DJs on the weekend, or consider hosting your next dynamic event here. The options really are endless at this sprawling pub. Step through the yellow-framed doorway to find Tippy-Tay, a love letter to the coastal cities of Italy. Tippy-Tay is a relaxed, eccentric and chaotically welcoming Italian restaurant that loves to see a celebration coming. Whether it's a midweek catch-up or a weekend hens party, you can't go wrong with the generous feed me menu, especially when you go for the matched wines options, which include three wines plus a Limoncello for just $50 per person. Now, Garden State Hotel has expanded its already sprawling offering with a 300-seat, two-level Rooftop Garden, suited for all seasons. With sweeping views of the CBD, the rooftop is a natural extension of Garden State's signature upbeat, social energy. Easy-to-drink herb- and floral-inspired cocktails, craft beers, approachable wines, and non-alcoholic drinks will draw even more post-work punters (if that's even possible) for relaxed city drinking at its best. Designed by Melbourne-based architect Telha Clarke, the new space, comprised of an open-air terrace and raised mezzanine, features layered greenery, arched details, banquette seating and soft lighting. "Melburnians love a good rooftop, so we're excited to bring this new elevated space to Garden State in time for spring warming up," says Venue Manager Katie Saxton. "It's a unique setting on Flinders Lane, with its own personality, while still feeling completely at home within Garden State. And with the retractable roof, Melbourne weather doesn't get the final say." The recent upgrade also extends to The Observatory, reimagined as a moody, after-dark space for sipping bespoke cocktails in plush booths. Perhaps start with a Matcha Martini, before trying a Pineapple and Mint Mule, and finishing with a refreshing Rhubarb and Pomegranate Spritz. Images: Zennieshia Butts. Like what you see? Subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter to get stories just like these straight to your inbox.
