One of Melbourne’s favourite Flinders Lane hotspots has had a makeover, and just in time for the warmer months.
Garden State Hotel has been a Melbourne favourite for the past decade, and it’s easy to understand why. Whether you’re popping in for a drink before or after an event in the city, meeting friends after work or simply looking for somewhere to spend a few hours, it’s always been one of those places that brings people together.
And now there’s another reason to visit: the hotel has unveiled a new two-tier Rooftop Garden and a refreshed cocktail bar, The Observatory.
The new rooftop has an open-air lower terrace and a raised mezzanine, with plenty of greenery, comfortable seating, and space for up to 300 guests. It also has a retractable roof and heating, which is certainly a good idea given Melbourne’s unpredictable weather.
“Melburnians love a good rooftop, so we’re excited to bring this new elevated space to Garden State in time for spring warming up,” says Venue Manager Katie Saxton.
“It’s a unique setting on Flinders Lane, with its own personality, while still feeling completely at home within Garden State. And with the retractable roof, Melbourne weather doesn’t get the final say.”
A New Look for The Observatory
The Observatory has also undergone a refresh, offering a more intimate setting with plush booths, cocktails, and DJs spinning disco, funk, and soul.
The new cocktail menu includes a Rhubarb & Pomegranate Spritz, a Matcha Martini, and a Pineapple & Mint Mule, while a seasonal partnership with Chandon has introduced the Peach in the Garden Spritz.
There’s also a menu designed for sharing, with everything from prawn rolls and kingfish crudo to Sydney Rock oysters, truffle arancini and flatbread topped with olives, walnut romesco, honey labneh and spiced seeds.
Head Chef James Wilkinson says the focus remains on quality local ingredients.
“The menu is grounded in the produce around us, with locally sourced ingredients, Victorian beef and seasonal produce shaping the dishes.”
Still One of Melbourne’s Favourite Meeting Places
What I’ve always liked about Garden State is that it suits just about any occasion.
You don’t necessarily need a reason to visit. You might be heading to a show, coming from an event, catching up with friends, or simply enjoying a night out in Melbourne.
And that’s what has made it such a popular spot over the years.
With its established beer garden, several bars and now a new rooftop, Garden State continues to offer something for everyone.
Ten years on, it’s lovely to see one of Melbourne’s familiar favourites continuing to evolve while keeping the relaxed atmosphere that made it popular in the first place.
Garden State Hotel
101 Flinders Lane, Melbourne
The Rooftop Garden is open from midday until late, while The Observatory is open from 4 pm until late, Wednesday to Saturday. https://gardenstatehotel.com.au/
By Melinda Sullivan.
