The Best Rooftop Bars in Brisbane

by Broadsheet Editors

Updated 3 weeks ago

Drinks taste better at high altitude. We don’t have any scientific proof for this statement, but sipping on a cocktail at one of Brisbane's many rooftop bars presents some pretty compelling anecdotal evidence. On a warm summer’s evening, there’s nothing better than watching the sun go down over the city with a drink in hand. These are our favourites.

Cielo Rooftop Bar
Bar
A rooftop oasis with splendid views across Fortitude Valley and the CBD. Come for Italian-leaning small plates and cocktails designed by Sydney’s Maybe Sammy – one of the world's best bars.
Iris
Restaurant
An immaculate rooftop bar and restaurant from the Donna Chang crew. Expect cocktails, sangria, a tight wine list and a broad menu of Mediterranean share plates served against a backdrop unlike anything else in the city.
Lina Rooftop
Bar
Every day feels like a holiday at this beach club-inspired rooftop bar and restaurant. Have rosé, lobster thermidor and tropical cocktails delivered to your cabana, or take a dip in the 30-metre infinity pool with sweeping views across the city.
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Maya
Restaurant
While rooftop bar Eleven takes an extended break, this luxe Mexican pop-up bar and diner is here to keep the good times rolling. It’s got 90 seats, a produce-driven menu exploring the regional cuisines of Mexico and a shedload of tequila – all set to a jaw-dropping vista of the city skyline.
Valley Hops Brewing
Bar
A Green Beacon veteran oversees 36 beer taps at this lush rooftop brewery. But that’s only half the story – the sizeable food offering involves woodfired pizza and beer-friendly snacks to pair with those ice-cold beers and city views.
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Soko Rooftop
Bar
Fourteen storeys up and with capacity for 500 punters, it’s serving lengthy menus of sushi, ceviche, plus crispy garlic squid and a grilled 400-gram grade 9 Wagyu rib eye. For drinks, there are signature cocktails, a healthy sake list and stacks of Pisco Sours.
Crystalbrook Vincent
Accommodation
You don’t have to be a guest at Brisbane’s Crystalbrook Vincent to experience Fiume. This rooftop stunner above the hotel is open to the public via an external entry, and has the energy of an LA resort. Take in one of Brisbane's finest riverside views from the infinity pool, cocktail in hand.
Tetto Rooftop Bar
Bar
The Amalfi coast in Brisbane’s northern suburbs – that was the inspiration behind this fun, Mediterranean-style rooftop. Come for spritzes and approachable cocktails, backed up by a menu of Italianate bar snacks and mains.
Sixteen Antlers
Bar
Perched 16 floors above Brisbane’s King George Square, this leafy hotel bar is one of the best spots in town for a drink at golden hour. For food, it’s serving up antipasti, charcoal-grilled sliders and a versatile menu of tapas-style dishes.
Melrose
Restaurant
This Southeast Asian rooftop diner is headed up by a former Longrain chef. Try prawn and pomelo betel leaf wraps and soft-shell crab stir-fried with curry powder and Chinese celery, alongside an extensive list of wine, beer and spritzes.
Ooh La La
Bar
Hidden on a heritage rooftop, this intimate bar above French restaurant C’est Bon is a place of oysters, French snacks and vintage Champagne. The views are unlike anything else in town.