Sky Bar

Sky Bar is the stunning jewel atop Shell House, one of the CBD’s most impressive art deco refurbishments. The space wraps around the building’s 400-tonne clocktower, with floor-to-ceiling windows looking out across the city, and bi-fold doors leading to an open-air terrace.

To go with a fleet of Med-inspired snacks, there are cocktails with appropriate names such as the High Society (gin, elderflower liqueur, cucumber, mint, lime) and Mile High Club (rosé, raspberry, elderflower, orange blossom, sparkling wine), both references to the bar’s lofty position in the heart of town. The wine list has a strong Italian presence, plenty of Aussie drops and a smattering of options from France, Germany and South Africa.

Chevron stripes in terracotta and neutral tones are a running theme here, from the floor tiles to the plush lounges. Rounded, rust-coloured chairs add to the mid-century ambiance. Silhouette-like burnt orange and black murals cover the walls, while a handsome wooden bar dominates one section of the venue, which is lit by wreath-like ceiling lights. Altogether, the effect recalls Mad Men energy crossed with a ’30s Milanese speakeasy.