In Queensland’s sub-tropical capital, there are but a few afternoons each year that aren’t perfectly idyllic for rooftop rendezvous. And with Mediterranean vacations currently out of reach, the city’s newest rooftop bar and restaurant is serving up a suitable consolation for those with a case of that woeful wanderlust.

Sitting pretty atop Hotel X – visualise lilac-hued wisteria blooms, olive trees, sparkling fairy lights, delightfully adorned dishes and one stunning view below – Iris is bringing major Euro-vacation vibes to the Valley.

As the sun dips below the horizon, guests can take in the view as they feast on shared dishes inspired by the cuisines of Barcelona, the Greek Islands, Beirut and the many food-centric destinations that dapple the Med coastline.

Head Chef Lloyd Evans has designed a menu that epitomises the coastal flavours of the Mediterranean in contemporary fashion. “Iris leans on quintessential flavours and spices, enticing guests with rich yet refreshing dishes that lend to the warmer Queensland climate,” he said.

Expect to sample the likes of prawns a la plancha; patatas bravas, di fossa pecorino and fried rosemary; piquillo peppers with bacalao, lemon and parsley pangrattato; vongole baked in white wine, garlic, cream and parsley; and a ‘fig-misu’ that sees mascarpone mousse, spiced fig, chocolate and Marsala mingle on the plate. Then comes the enticing drinks menu that furthers the Mediterranean mood – think rosé sangria.

And, though we may be swinging close to the throes of winter, at Iris, a crackling fire and warming menu will keep patrons warm on those (almost-chilly) Brisbane winter evenings. Inside, the sophisticated dining space features gold and marble accents and plush, plum furnishings – offering a picturesque space to cosy up on a crisp evening. The venue’s restaurant also presents an opulent private dining room for special events. Come the warmer months, guests can make use of the poolside bungalow area, and dance into the darkening night as a DJ plays under the stars.

Iris comes from the Ghamen Group team behind established local favourites: Blackbird, Donna Chang, Byblos, Bisou Bisou and more. Iris’s bar and 200-seat restaurant, plus its dining room and poolside bungalows, will be open 7 days a week from 11am until late.

Iris 
Rooftop, 458 Brunswick St, Fortitude Valley Qld
Sun – Thu 11:30am – 12pm, Fri – Sat 11:30am – 3am
irisrooftopbar.com.au
@irisrooftop