QT Melbourne reopens its 11th-floor rooftop bar today, after a revamp. Led by designer Nic Graham, the refreshed space stars textured artworks and handpainted wallpaper by Melbourne artist Dwayne Hutton, in hues of pink and blue that enliven dark-wood booths upholstered in olive-green leather, low-hanging black pendant lights and monochrome-patterned cushions on outdoor lounges.

The scenic views from the bar’s perch over Russell Street since it first opened in 2016 are unchanged and best enjoyed to the venue’s new soundtrack of electronic-tinged vintage disco, boogie and soul.

To match the updated interior, both the food and drink menus have been reimagined. QT Hotels’ food and beverage director Chris Stock’s new cocktail menu is available in single serves, or for sharing between six.

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The Son of Man, a refresh of the classic Daiquiri, takes its name from the Magritte painting – you know, the one of the guy with an apple hiding his face – and is made with Bacardi Carta Blanca, Lillet Blanc, clarified apple and lime, and basil oil. Meanwhile, Espresso Martini fans are offered a citrusy, miso-spiked take via the Bulleit Punch (Bulleit Rye, Mr Black coffee liqueur, orange and miso syrup, clarified cream).

There’s also a trio of takes on the drink du jour, the Martini, escalating in fanciness from “classic” through to “luxe” and “gilded”.

The short and sharp new food menu by executive chef Nic Wood has a whole section dedicated to crudo, as well as an assortment of instant winners – like a fried mortadella sanga with provolone; a lobster cocktail made with southern rock lobster, salmon pearls and cognac-horseradish Marie Rose; and a lemon-mascarpone ice-cream sandwich.

For the first time, bookings are available at the bar, and a private room with capacity for 40 offers the perfect space for revellers to sip their six-person cocktails in peace.

Rooftop at QT Melbourne
133 Russell Street, Melbourne
(03) 8636 8800

Hours:
Mon to Wed 3pm–11pm
Thu midday–11pm
Fri & Sat midday–1am
Sun midday–11pm

qthotels.com.au