Songbird: High Above the City

Perched atop the W Hotel, Songbird feels like a rooftop lounge plucked from Los Angeles and reimagined for Melbourne. The bar opens to sweeping views over the Yarra and city skyline, with a refined yet relaxed atmosphere that hits the balance between high-end and laidback. Plush seating, soft lighting and open air lend it a cinematic quality — the kind of place that feels special without trying too hard.

Cocktails with Character

Songbird’s cocktail list is a masterclass in presentation and precision. Each drink draws inspiration from native ingredients and local produce, from the citrus-forward “Firetail” to the smoky “Cuckoo”. The mixologists here treat each pour like choreography, using craft spirits, house-made infusions and theatre in equal measure. It’s the kind of menu that rewards curiosity — you could close your eyes and point, and still end up with something memorable.

There’s a strong focus on balance, not gimmicks. The drinks are thoughtful, modern and anchored in technique. Pair them with small plates designed for sharing, like spiced prawns, duck bao or the bar’s take on oysters with desert lime dressing.

The Atmosphere: Elevated Yet Effortless

By day, Songbird is a calm perch above the city. By night, it transforms — DJs spin, candles flicker and the energy sharpens just enough to feel alive. Service stays relaxed but professional, the crowd stays mixed and interesting, and the music builds without ever drowning the conversation. It’s rooftop drinking done right, where the views are the backdrop, not the main act.

For sunset cocktails or late-night escapism, Songbird remains one of the city’s most refined sky-high experiences.