Going to Australia is a one way ticket into a subtropical climate. We’re talking sea, sun, and grog – and this isn’t more true than in Brisbane.
Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, is the second hottest city in Australia recording a mean temperature of around 25 degrees Fahrenheit. Situated between the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast, it’s a sun-lovers paradise on the country’s Eastern seaboard.
This balmy climate has made Brisbane a metropolitan beach city that is full of youth and culture, as well as good weather.
Here you can find all your artistic and bohemian desires catered to in the famous South Bank cultural precinct. This hub is home to many contemporary art exhibitions and science museums.
All of this has made Brisbane a youthful city that caters to its inhabitants with much more than just rooftop views, good drink, and cultural attractions. Read our guide to the best rooftop bars in Brisbane to find the best views, drink and vibes in Brisbane.
Cielo Rooftop Bar
Location: Within La Costa Restaurant, Rooftop, 209 Brunswick St, Fortitude Valley, QLD 4006 Ph: (07) 3148 6738
Cielo Rooftop Bar is a new addition to the growing list of rooftop bars in Brisbane. From its vantage point, it provides a beautiful view of the Italian Riviera and Fortitude Valley. Especially if you can grab a table for the sunset.
If you are an Australian native you may already be aware of ‘Maybe Sammy’ in Sydney. This fabled bar won 11th place in the esteemed ‘World’s 50 Best Bar Awards’. Well Cielo Rooftop Bar is from the same stable, so now you don’t have to go to Sydney to try their prized cocktails.
We love the laid back vibe of Cielo. Depending on how you feel, you can lounge with friends in cushioned booths, or sit on upright chairs with a date. This is a rooftop hangout with an Italian vibe but the comforts of Australia.
Are you partial to a Gin Cocktail? Here are some of our favourites.
Sixteen Antlers
Location: Within Pullman Brisbane King George Square, Level 16 Pullman & Mercure Hotel, Cnr Ann & Roma St, Brisbane City, QLD 4000 Ph: 0466 463 742
At the top of the Pullman Hotel you will find Sixteen Antlers, a cocktail bar that has some amazing views of metropolitan Brisbane – expect skylines, sex on the beach, and squares.
At the heart of the CBD (Central Business District) this bar caters to all the new young professionals that grace this fair city. Even better, this bar treats them to a selection of cocktails that is perfectly matched to Brisbane’s near year-round sunny weather.
The décor here is cosy and lounge focused – like the VIP section at a club – but on a roof. Expect DJs, ankles, and high heels.
The Rooftop At The Fox – The Fox Hotel
Location: 71/73 Melbourne St, South Brisbane, QLD 4101 Ph: (07) 3844 2893
When a drinking spot actually has the word ‘rooftop’ in its name, you have to put it on the best rooftop bars in Brisbane list.
This bar is located atop The Fox Hotel, and is slap-bang in Brisbane’s cultural centre. A short walk from the Gallery of Modern Art, this venue rivals the prettiest pictures with its awesome views of the Brisbane river.
Once you’ve taken in Brisbane’s South Bank cultural centre, head up here. This bar is offers the perfect vantage point to sit and see where you’ve just been. And you can do it with a cocktail in hand and sunnies on your head.
Here they have some kooky seating on picnic tables and artificial grass to have some fun in the sun. The brains trust behind the idea call it an ‘adult rooftop playground’ – what more could you want?
Would you like a new Cafe or 2 to visit? Here are our favourites in Brisbane.
Editor’s Note: We’ve been informed that The Fox Hotel is currently closed. We will let you know when we learn more. But as this is the case, maybe try the following spot instead…
Lina Rooftop
Location: 74-80 Tribune St, South Brisbane, QLD 4101 Ph: (07) 3187 4590
Lina Rooftop has the Wow factor and more. That ‘more’, being a stunning 30m rooftop infinity pool. And it’s hard to top.
The vibe at the Lina Rooftop Bar is very much Mediterranean beach club. It’s a spacious, chilled spot complete with waterside booths and daybeds, where you can lie back and take in in the impressive views of the city skyline.
The food is pretty sophisticated too. There’s Porcini & Black Truffle Arancini and Blowtorched Tuna amongst the Entrees. For Mains, The Squid Ink Linguine captures the tastes of summer, whilst the Roasted Half Duck nods to Asian influences.
The Drinks Menu runs to Spritz and Slushies, as well as Beers, Wines, Spirits and Cocktails. There’s also a comprehensive Agave list, which is always nice for a change.
As you can imagine, with a pool on offer, booking in advance is the way to go. Especially if you fancy a dip in the pool. See the website for Reservation details.
If you’re heading to the Gold Coast, check out our favourite places to dine.
Spicers Balfour Hotel Rooftop Bar
Location: 37 Balfour St, New Farm, QLD 4005 Ph: 1300 597 540
If you want some respite from the crazy nightlife of Fortitude Valley, try this hidden gem for relaxed vibes and fine wines. This hang-out is a little more low key and isn’t that well known. However this rooftop bar doesn’t disappoint.
One thing we like about Spicer’s rooftop bar is that they don’t take bookings. This leaves it open to locals and thus makes it more laid back and homey than the money grabbing spots in Fortitude Valley.
Here, you will receive some great customer service to accompany amazing views and drinks. This secret gem is the kind of place you’d go to impress a date, or Brisbane native.
Wondering where to get a good Breakfast in Brisbane? See our guide.
Fitz And Potts
Location: 1180 (Upstairs) Sandgate Rd, Nundah, QLD 4012
This is another spot to consider if you like a more chilled ambience and want a rooftop bar for quiet drinks with friends.
The décor is retro and eclectic with paisley wallpaper and velvet everywhere you look. The result is a cosy and comfortable spot to relax with friends in the sun.
If you are interested in local food as well as rooftop views then you will love exploring Fitz and Potts’ fully vegan menu. After all, filling up on veggies makes those afternoon bevvies feel a little less naughty.
Looking for a great Rooftop Bar in Sydney? We’ve got you covered.
Eagles Nest Brisbane
Location: Within The Point Brisbane – Hotel, 21 Lambert St, Kangaroo Point, QLD 4169 Ph: 1800 088 388
The well-named Eagles Nest rises high above the city and is hidden within The Point Hotel. This is a classy venue. After all, it has a partnership with Moet. What more can we say?
This exciting partnership of rooftop views and bougie booze is a dream for the Instagram obsessed and the A-list Aussies. The furniture is white and sleek, perfect for watching the sun go down over Kangy Point.
It’s definitely one of the best rooftop bars in Brisbane.
Planning a trip to Sydney and want a decent glass of wine? Here are our top Wine Bars in the NSW capital.
Dirty Sultan
Location: 14-18 Constance St, Fortitude Valley, QLD 4006
If you’re looking for something a little different in Fortitude Valley, then consider the Dirty Sultan.
Atop the Tryp Hotel, you can sip Turkish inspired cocktails and finger food while you people watch passersby on the streets below.
You can recline like a sultan in their Turkish day beds, and enjoy Shisha in their trendy lounge. Think Salt Bae, just less steak, more class, and more partying. The food here is restaurant quality, while the vibe is like an Ibiza club.
Luscious figs always make us think of the Turkey and the Middle East. Here are our most-loved Fresh Fig Recipes.
Fiume At Crystalbrook Vincent
Location: Within CrystalBrook Vincent, Level 3/5 Boundary St, Brisbane City, QLD 4000 Ph: (07) 3515 0700
Fancy relaxing in a pool whilst sampling great cocktails amongst the beautiful people? Then pop Fiume on your list of the best rooftop bars in Brisbane.
This glamorous venue is an urban escape that boasts some of the best views of the Brisbane River within the city.
Whether by stars or by sun, the legends at Fiume have put serious thought into this boutique oasis that attracts the high rollers of Brisbane.
In the Brisbane heat, keeping drinks cool can be a challenge. That’s where the Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze Zipperless Hardbody Cooler comes in. This cooler has thousands of 5-star reviews for a reason!
If you manage to claim a spot at this acclaimed rooftop bar you can enjoy some great drinks choices and nibbles that will have you cooling off in their pool within no time.
Fiume is the place to be for poolside vibes, perfectly adapted to a chic and modern setting like Brisbane.
Are you in Perth and wanting to find a cool spot to spend the evening? See our Best Bars in Perth guide.
The Terrace At Emporium Hotel
Location: Within Southpoint South Bank, Emporium Hotel South Bank, Level 21/267 Grey St, South Brisbane, QLD 4101 Ph: (07) 3556 3333
This is another well placed rooftop bar near the South Bank cultural centre. From this amazing rooftop terrace you can see all the way to Moreton Island.
This was the first rooftop bar in the South Bank so it claimed the best spot in terms of views.
Today, this is an intimate bar that is great for couples and small families as well as youngsters who want to bask in the excitement of the city lights. And as far as views, The Terrace still has some of the best.
Love Thai food? See our recommendations for the Best Thai Restaurants in Brisbane.
MAYA Mexican
Location: 757 Ann St, Fortitude Valley, QLD 4006 Ph: (07) 3067 7447
Another eatery and bar in the Fortitude Valley area, MAYA offers something a little different.
If you want South American vibes that offer a nice change to the sleek sharp edges of Fortitude Valley’s chic bars, then MAYA is the place to be.
You might recognise the address of this mexican inspired bar and restaurant. In a previous incarnation is was ‘Eleven’.
However, the emergence of MAYA has been welcomed by locals who love the South American flair of the haunt. It’s always nice to offer a contrast to the competition, whilst still capitalising on amazing views, drinks, and food.
At MAYA, su casa es tu casa.
Iris
Location: Within Hotel X Brisbane Fortitude Valley, an IHG Hotel, Atop Hotel X, 458 Brunswick St, Fortitude Vally, QLD 4006 Ph: (07) 3131 8999
The all-star team at Ghanem Group, who brought us the acclaimed Donna Chang, Blackbird, and Boom Boom Room, have brought us this amazing rooftop bar sat atop the Hotel X.
Any expat from Europe will love the Mediterranean looks of this bar.
From the wisterias to the sangria, this is a great spot for the Europhile. With arguably the best view of the Story Bridge, you can escape the city hustle of Brisbane and ascend into a Mediterranean paradise.
Does the talk of the Med make you think of Italian food? See our top Italian Restaurants in Brisbane.
Limes Rooftop Bar – Limes Hotel
Location: 142 Constance St, Fortitude Valley, QLD 4006 Ph: (07) 3852 9000
This rooftop bar has essentially everything you could want in terms of entertainment.
It’s well-known for its live DJs, open-air cinema and awesome accommodation. Then there’s great drinks and snacks on top of all that. This is the place to come for chilled, fun vibes all summer.
This is a balmy evening zinger that will go down a treat with just about everyone thanks to its laid back and welcoming atmosphere.
Melbourne might not have the same endless summer as Brisbane, but it still has some fabulous Rooftop Bars.
Elixir Rooftop Bar
Location: 646 Ann St, Fortitude Valley, QLD 4006
Another favourite within the ‘Valley is this intoxicating rooftop bar that is like something from a fairytale. As you ascend the staircase you will enter a haven of fantasy that is inspired by the Chinese tale of ‘the Moon Rabbit’.
You simply have to see it to believe it. This is a venue that really packs the wow factor into its drinks and décor. Come for a drink, leave your troubles behind and escape into another world.
Got a cocktail shaker gathering dust at home? Why not make one of our Baileys Cocktails.
Editor’s Note: We’ve been informed that Elixir Rooftop Bar is currently closed. We will let you know when we learn more. As this is the case, why not try this cool rooftop bar instead…?
Tetto Rooftop Bar
Location: 807 Stafford Rd, Everton Park, QLD 4053 Ph: (07) 3355 3319
This bright and sunny rooftop bar is the perfect place to kick back with an Aperol Spritz. After all, it takes it’s inspiration from the laid-back cool of the Italian Riviera.
Stay in the shade wherever you are with the Sport-Bella Versa-Brella. This fully adjustable sun umbrella has SPF 50+ and comes with a universal clamp.
The food menu is mainly crowd-pleasing fried options such as Lightly Battered Calamari and Crispy Cauliflower and the cocktail list leans towards light, fruity, summer flavours. However, special mention has to be made of their Bubble-Tini. This is a playful spin on a Pornstar Martini, but with a smoky bubble balanced on top.
With a DJ spinning tunes in the sunshine and a Bottomless Brunch every Sunday, Tetto Rooftop Bar has lots going for it. We predict it’ll become one of your favourite rooftop bars in Brisbane.
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Sazerac Bar
Location: 99 Mary St, Brisbane City, QLD 4000 Ph: (07) 3164 4000
This is a rooftop bar for the cool cats and jazz rats of Brisbane.
If you want a rooftop venue that takes inspiration from New Orleans speakeasies, this is the place to visit. With a tapas style menu that is perfect for picking at while you admire the amazing 30 storey high view of Brissy, Sazerac Bar is cool.
From this high up, you can see some amazing views of the Brisbane City Botanical Gardens, as well as the Brisbane River.
We love this place for its delicious drinks and European vibes.
Make sure you put it on your run-down of the best rooftop bars in Brisbane.
Feel like eating Japanese tonight? See our Best Japanese Restaurants in Brisbane.
The Rooftop At Stock Exchange Hotel
Location: 166 Charlotte St, Brisbane City, QLD 4000 Ph: (07) 3229 3522
This is an iconic pub that was built back in 1863 and carries with it much of Australia’s British history.
At first glance, this is just another pub that shows sports and has the cosy allure of a British pub. However, head to the rooftop you will find a very Australian view of the Brisbane CBD.
The alfresco terrace is a great place for groups and functions. There is great classic pub food which is perfect to sink a pint with while you watch the sun set over Brisbane. This is one for the sports fans.
Adelaide has some awesome pubs. Here are some of our favourites.
SOKO Rooftop
Location: Level 14/470 St Pauls Terrace, Fortitude Valley, QLD 4006 Ph: (07) 3638 8270
Soko Rooftop Lounge sits proudly atop the Jubilee Hotel with stellar views. And it’s big.
The bar is a sprawling quasi-Amazonion wonderland, with lush garden beds and an ocean of greens in the colour palette.
The menu is a little bit different from the norm, featuring an array of Japanese Peruvian delights. Get your tastebuds dancing with the Taquitos Nortenos ($16) – 2 Kingfish Taquitos, Leche De Tigre, Chilli, Spring Onion & Spanish Onion. If marinated seafood gets you excited, then the Mistura De Ceviches ($110) – the Chefs selection of SOKO ceviches is a must-try. For those who like a lick of charcoal, the Yakitori menu will tempt you.
The fusion fun continues in the Drinks. There are Pisco Sours with your choice of fruity blend. However, if you feel more Asian-inclined, SOKO Rooftop has a good range of Sakes. But that’s not all. There’s a comprehensive list of Cocktails too. Personally, we’d order the White Orchid ($24) – a refreshing mix of Tromba Tequila, Bashed Cucumber, Fresh Lychees, Elderflower Cordial & Poire.
As the sun dips over Fortitude Valley, you can kick back at SOKO and imagine you are on an exotic holiday in South America. What more do you want from one of the finest rooftop bars in Brisbane?
Taking a holiday in Hervey Bay? See our restaurant and cafe recommendations.
This is why I decided to set up my blog, Eatability, to share the best food and drink spots in Australia with as many people as possible. Hi, my name is Dylan Cole, and I moved to Australia five years ago from England, UK.
Through this blog, I will be sharing and recommending some of my favorite places you need to visit, such as where to find the best pizza in Adelaide, and the best bakery in Brisbane. Whatever food you are fancying, I have got you covered!
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