Melbourne's best rooftop bars

That first night out at QT rooftop bar after lockdown just hits different. This fifth-floor gem in Russell Street is almost an old-fave by Melbourne standards. But QT is keeping it fresh with a lush secret garden pop-up for spring and summer. Visit for a curated selection of wines, and stop to admire the stunning street art mural by Aussie artist Rowena Martinich. Open from 22 October.

Slogging up seven flights of stairs for the best views in the city - it’s a Melburnian rite of passage. Or you can take the lift, which is known for being a little grungy but fully functional. In a true return to form, this sky-high spot is reverting back to a walk-in only policy. Revisit from 22 October.

Limoncello highballs, pizzas loaded with prosciutto and buffalo mozzarella platters. Johnny’s back in a big way, taking walk-ins only from midday 22 October. Nab a spot and see the city skyline anew, then kick on for a pasta sesh at downstairs Agostino.

Bomba is all cosy vibes downstairs, lush open-air retreat upstairs. Make a booking and head up from 22 October, when the cocktails will be super fresh and the tapas on point. They also take large group bookings on the rooftop terrace, for all your long-awaited group catch-up needs.

This urban oasis topping The Carlton Club is back in action from 26 October, and they'll be open for walk-ins only. Take a chance on a spontaneous post-dinner sesh and enter a tropical hideaway overlooking Bourke Street. Complete with overgrown bougainvillea, palm trees and a thatched hut bar.

You'll find this award-winning bar three floors above Loop Project Space & Bar. The cocktails are killer and the bar snacks match perfectly. They'll be back from 26 October, and the team is taking bookings online now. They'll also be taking some limited walk-ins if you want to try your luck.

Up on Level 28 of Australia's first Quincy Hotel, the Q Bar offers hawker snacks and cocktails next to a glittering rooftop pool. A cheeky drinks list includes Melbourne-centric 'Under The Clocks', and an Aussie icy pole inspired 'Summers at the Servo'. Reopening 5 November, book online.

Farmer's Daughter is a three-storey culinary wonderland dedicated to all things local and delicious. The rooftop bar is a sleek, sunny oasis decked out with gorgeous greenery. It's also where the team grows all their garnishes! Start with a spicy margarita, then head downstairs for a set-menu delight. Reopening from 26 October, book online now.

Discover the heavenly world at Higher Grace, the rooftop of State of Grace. Settle in and soak up the views overlooking the city. The vibe is casual – think pizzas and share plates, cured meat boards, haloumi, parmesan fries. Match with deliciously summery cocktails, tap beers and tinnies. Back open from 26 October, book now.

This top-end spot is a historic pub dating back to 1858. Today it's known for its large rooftop beer garden and live sports, as well as its icy cold beers and classic pub fare. Book a spot on the rooftop beer garden to check out the 360-degree views of the city. Back open from 26 October, book now.

Marameo is a fun, easy-going Italian eatery. It offers a range of pasta and mains, but we love the spin on the rooftop terrace. Tucked in amongst city buildings, you're hidden from view and left to concentrate on which spritz to try next. Book online now for a post-lockdown escape.

Remember - things are a little different right now. Contact individual venues for more information on their post-lockdown offers. Stay up to date on the reopening roadmap and check restrictions from the Victorian Government before making plans.