From 68 metres high, the sight of Crown Casino's nightly fire show and its reflection dancing off the Yarra River is mesmerizing. It's just one of the views you can enjoy at Fleet, a new rooftop bar perched on level 22 of the Vibe Hotel Melbourne, affording spectacular views of Southbank, the city skyline and beyond.
Fleet exudes more of an '80s private penthouse vibe than that of a noisy CBD rooftop, thanks to the interior design smarts of Paul Kelly Design (Black Star Pastry, Crown Casino). The creative team has transformed the former apartments into a sleek, 90-person watering hole with amber and dusty pink tones and custom-made furniture.
Settle in on an indoor lounge to sample one of the 70 rums from around the world, or venture onto the wrap-around terrace to take in the stunning sunset and night-sky views. A retractable roof and glass panelling caters to all of Melbourne's unpredictable weather turns so that visitors can enjoy the space all year long.
Award-winning mixologist Grant Collins has curated the rum-centric drinks list, showcasing nostalgic classics that nod to the past. Made using Fleet's signature blends, you can try the Hurricane with gold rum, navy rum, pineapple, orange, lime and passionfruit, or a Manhattan with barrel-aged tequila, sweet vermouth, bitters and maraschino. There's even a Martini trolley that's wheeled between tables throughout the night, offering your choice of Classic, Dry, Olive Leaf or Oyster Shell.
To round out the offerings of local and international wines, beer and spirits, a menu of bar snacks showcasing fresh Victorian produce will also be available for share-friendly nibbles or a light meal. Think half-shell seared scallops with Yarra Valley caviar and lemon chilli butter, lobster crêpes and juicy lamb tenderloins with olive salsa, pickled fennel and black garlic jus.
Fleet is now open from Tuesday to Saturday, 3pm until late. You can also head up for lunch on Fridays and Saturdays from noon. Follow Fleet's Instagram or make a booking via the website.
