Collingwood welcomes Slowpoke: an eclectic new rooftop lounge with 360-degree views

There's a new kid on the Collingwood block and she's no short runt. Playfully named Slowpoke Lounge and Lookout (a nod to Looney Tunes character Slowpoke Rodriguez), the cosy rooftop watering hole treats visitors to panoramic views of Melbourne's inner-north and city skyline. On March 1, it landed right in the heart of all the action – between hip co-working space the Commons and dreamy wellness centre Inner Studio (post-sauna Margarita, anyone?).

Founders Bradley Wynne, Gabe Neri and Dustin Hefford share backgrounds in events and immersive experiences – Neri and Hefford are the brains behind Daybreak Festival – with Wynne describing their shared intention for "Slowpoke to feel like an extension of your living room – a cosy, familiar place where both old and new friends can gather, reflect, and dream." 

Ever heard of a 'third place'? Distinct from most humans' typical home and work spaces, a third place is designed to be somewhere you can regularly connect with other folks away from the humdrum of domestic and professional duties. Slowpoke's crew are shooting for exactly this: a warm hive where Melburnians can come together, feel a sense of community and share "the weirdest possible version of themselves" with those who've come from near and far. 

Wynne designed the bar's aesthetic to feel whimsical, glamorous and refined all at once – from a nostalgic service station sign at the entrance (cute!), to marble tabletops and plush leather lounges softening the space inside. 

Specialty cocktail curator Harry Costello brings a wealth of experience from much-loved venues around Melbourne (Bar Romantica, Lounge, Hugs and Kisses) to concoct Slowpoke's drinks offerings – a high-spirited, seasonally informed list of classic cocktails with a twist. Think Hazelnut Espresso Martinis, Elderflower Palomas and a Spiked Yerba Maté. For those off the grog, selections like house-brewed ice tea and spiced lemonade promise to keep the booze-free libations interesting. 

Curious? Discover Slowpoke atop community workspace Zero Gipps, at 50 Gipps St, Collingwood. The new rooftop bar is open every Thursday to Sunday until 11pm, exclusively for walk-ins until bookings open up from April onwards. For more information, head to the website.