It’s the first sky high eatery for the Far North Queensland hub.
Boasting one of the city’s best views, Rocco sits 12 floors above sea level and is armed with 270-degree views of the surrounding coastline and Coral Sea. The bar comes courtesy of the city’s latest accommodation option (and first in 20 years); Riley, a Crystalbrook Collection Resort.
Focused around Mediterranean fare, Rocco’s drinks are just as laden in herbs and spices as its dishes. The cocktail list here is extensive and features all the classics, and a slew of creative new takes on tipple. Stand-outs include the Puckerup, a concoction of local Tablelands honey, freshly squeezed citrus, 666 Pure Vodka, pomegranate and rose blossom spritz garnished with dehydrated rose petals. There’s also the Punch Pot, which is a spiked tea for two comprised of Moroccan mint green tea reduction with Tanqueray Gin, served ritualistically from a vaporising tea pot. If cocktails are not for you, guests can choose from more than 40 single malt or blended whiskeys and 30 vintage and non-vintage Champagnes.
Mediterranean classics merge with contemporary bar favourites on Rocco’s menu. Dishes are designed to pair well with drinks, and are largely made to share. Think along the lines of grilled sumac calamari with tomato and coriander salsa and caramelised limes, and falafels with jalapeno sauce and chorizo . There’s also sweet treats to be had, including churro bites with chocolate dipping sauce.
The rooftop bar’s design was developed by leading restaurant conceptualist SITE Hospitality, with interiors crafted by C T R L _. The Mediterranean is evidently a big part of the physical space, with clashing textiles and ceramics aplenty. “Rocco is all about atmosphere, detail and fun. Earthy tones and Mediterranean prints create Rocco’s warm ambience while a tropical oasis of greenery welcomes guests the moment they arrive,” says the hotel group of its latest eatery.
Rocco sits atop the Riley hotel, a part of a trio of Crystalbrook Collection Resorts that have just arrived in Cairns. 131-141 The Esplanade, Cairns City; crystalbrookcollection.com.
