It's not the highest, or the biggest but this bar sure packs a punch when it comes to sunset views of Brisbane's city skyline.
Positioned on floor 11, Eleven Rooftop Bar offers much to like with 270-degree views over the central city hub and Fortitude Valley.
The decor draws inspiration from rooftop bars in Istanbul and Bali's Potato Head and Ku De Ta, and I certainly got that vibe. There's no beach stretching out the front like Ku De Ta, but both venues share a relaxed feeling that makes it easy to stretch a few drinks into a big night out. Not surprising considering the place was established by frequent Bali visitor and established restauranteur Jason Coats, who also owns The Jetty at South Bank and Bulimba.
You do have to run the gauntlet past the doorman here, something I've not had to do for a while. Thankfully we were not rejected.
There are plenty of areas to pick from, but the six premium booth spots back onto Ann Street. I can see why bookings are recommended. Two-hour bookings are available, though you'll need to put aside $1500 minimum spend for a four-hour, full booth booking accommodating a minimum of 12 people and a maximum of 20.
Wrapped around three sides of the building, you need a good wander around to find all the fun which includes a huge feature tree hung with fake bird cages and, thankfully, fake birds.
Our plans did not include dinner but the pulled pork and chorizo arancini with romesco sauce ($10 for three) was too hard to resist. Other tapas options include smoked paprika and maple wings (I'd like to see you eat those and still look tidy!), a fish taco, grazing plate with olives, meat and cheese and shaved beef carpaccio. The dinner menu is more expensive but still a tight mix.
Ed+bk rating: 4/5 stars. The view counts for a lot here, but it's a comfortable bar with an overload of atmosphere. This is for the bar only as I didn't dine.
Bottom line: Tapas $9 - $25, mains $35, dessert $14.
Top tip: It's worth noting the dress code here and leaving your thongs, and high vis wear at home. Tats are out too. Get glammed up, cocktail frocks are the go, for Friday and Saturday evenings past 6 pm.
Eleven Rooftop Bar
Disclaimer: Ed+bK paid for her drinks and food.
