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Melbourne’s rooftop bar game is pretty damn strong, but there’s one beloved spot that has long boasted some of the city’s most enviable views. Located in Fed Square with sweeping vistas across the Yarra River, Flinders Street Station and the CBD skyline, Transit Rooftop Bar has been a go-to for easy sunset drinks for more than 20 years. And now, it's scoring a multi-million-dollar glow-up to match its on-point position.
The venue is officially closed for the renovation, with plans to reopen this spring as a completely reimagined all-day and late-night bar and restaurant. It's the first stage of a broader transformation of the Transport Hotel precinct, with updates to Transport Public Bar and Taxi Kitchen also on the horizon.
Leading the redesign is Melbourne architecture and interiors studio Studio Y – the team behind a handful of perfectly styled venues including Nick and Nora's and Jayda. According to the team, the new-look Transit has been designed to make the most of its standout location, with a reconfigured layout that opens up the city views and creates a rooftop experience that “works year-round”.
We can expect a moodier aesthetic than before, with dark timber, rich burgundy tones, metallic finishes and faceted mirrors inspired by the movement and glow of the city below. There'll also be two brand-new bars, a custom Martin Audio sound system and a mix of restaurant and lounge-style seating.
The food offering is also getting an overhaul. Executive chef and general manager Tony Twitchett, who has overseen the Transport Hotel precinct (including Taxi Kitchen) for the past two decades, is creating a menu centred on elevated but easy dishes: refined bar snacks alongside playful, generous share plates.
Behind the drinks list is internationally acclaimed bartender Matt Linklater, who has developed a cocktail menu that puts a playful spin on the classics. According to the team, we can expect drinks like a Peach Colada and a Transit Espresso Martini, alongside more theatrical creations (dry ice, report for duty).
Music will also play a starring role. Curated by WAT Artists, the program will lean heavily into vinyl, with DJs soundtracking the venue from early evening through to late night.
While Transit undergoes its transformation, Transport Public Bar and Taxi Kitchen will remain open as usual. You can keep tabs over here.
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