Nimbus Rooftop Bar sits at the top of a brand-new office development on Mitchell street, right in the heart of Bendigo’s city centre. Take the elevator to the third floor and you’ll be greeted by a garden oasis with sweeping vistas over the city’s skyline.

Co-owner Jesse Gollan did most of the fit-out and design himself, opting for modern, minimalistic décor to let the panoramas really pop. The laid-back food and drinks offering pairs well with the unpretentiousness of the space.

Chef Shannon Bradley has created a menu of small plates to share, with highlights such as pan-fried Otway pork belly or pork and prawn potstickers. For something substantial, there’s three pastas to choose from, such as Parisian-style gnocchi tossed in a honey and ale-braised lamb shoulder ragu.

On the drinks list, expect all-time classic cocktails and an entire section devoted to fun, fruit-forward creations. Try the passionfruit mojito or the house signature, made with Morris Lane pink gin, strawberry liqueur, lime and grenadine (it’s called the Flamingo for good reason).

Some neat design features make Nimbus a four seasons affair. Roll-down mesh shutters allow the sun to shine in, while keeping out the elements. Heaters ensure the rooftop is toasty year-round, and the pergola roof can be snapped shut during a rainy spell.