Above: a Mediterranean rooftop above Fortitude Valley
A pool at the heart of the roof
At 1000 Ann Street, the Ovolo hotel in Fortitude Valley has turned its roof into Above, a bar and restaurant open to everyone, designed with the firm BSPN Architects. Clean lines, white tiles, mosaics and citrus-coloured banquettes surround an open-air pool, from which you can glimpse the buildings of the Valley and, further away, the towers of central Brisbane. The atmosphere is relaxed: people come in swimwear for an afternoon by the water or in evening wear for a sunset drink, while DJs lay down a soundtrack with influences from all over the world.
Mezze and spiced cocktails
The cuisine, served as sharing plates, combines Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavours with Australian produce: warm pita, dips, grilled dishes and seafood plates. The cocktails play on spices, citrus and herbs, alongside a list of wines and champagnes. A day pass lets you enjoy the pool with a towel, a reserved table and drinks included; musical entertainment takes place at weekends.
Practical information
Open from Wednesday to Sunday, in the afternoon and early evening only (closing between 7pm and 9pm depending on the day); closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Online booking recommended, especially for pool passes; remember to bring your swimwear. No strict dress code. Fortitude Valley station is about fifteen minutes' walk away; James Street and its boutiques are very close by, and buses serve Ann Street.
Above: frequently asked questions
Above: what is our editors' review?
Above is rated 3.5/5 by the BestOfRooftop editors.
Above: what is the address?
Above is located at the following address: 1000 Ann Street Toit de l'hôtel Ovolo Brisbane, Fortitude Valley (ex-Ovolo The Valley), 4006 Brisbane.
Above: where can I see the menu?
Above publishes its menu online: See the menu
Above: how expensive is it?
On our scale, Above has a price level of 4 out of 5 ($$$$).
