The Emerson Rooftop Bar and Club, Rooftop bar in South Yarra, Australia.
The Emerson is a rooftop bar with panoramic views of the Melbourne skyline through a retractable roof system that can open or close depending on the weather. The venue has comfortable seating areas and multiple bars designed to serve different groups and drink preferences.
The Emerson emerged as part of Melbourne's growing rooftop bar trend that began to take shape as the city sought spaces where people could gather above street level. The venue was built with modern features like the retractable roof to enhance visitor comfort throughout the year.
The name references philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson, reflecting the venue's orientation toward intellectual and artistic conversation. Visitors notice the space functions as both a casual meeting spot and a dance venue, shifting character depending on the crowd and music being played.
The venue opens at different times depending on the day of the week, so check the specific schedule before you visit. Since it starts in the afternoon on weekends, you can come during the day or evening depending on how you want to spend your time.
On weekends there is a special brunch offering with unlimited cocktails and small appetizers during the day that turns the place into a relaxed gathering spot. After sunset the lower dance floor opens and the music gets louder, so the same space feels completely different.
Location: South Yarra
Address: 141-145 Commercial Rd, South Yarra VIC 3141, Australia
Opening Hours: Thursday 17:00-23:00; Friday 17:00-05:00; Saturday 12:00-05:00; Sunday 12:00-23:00
Phone: +61398250900
Website: http://theemerson.com.au
GPS coordinates: -37.84637,144.99121
Latest update: December 6, 2025 19:00
Melbourne's rooftop bars give you a different way to experience the city. These venues sit high above the streets, where you can sip a drink and watch the urban landscape spread out around you. You'll find them scattered across different neighborhoods, each with its own terrace or rooftop space. Some offer cocktails and food, others focus on drinks and conversation, but they all share one thing: they let you see Melbourne from above. Whether you're in the heart of the city or heading toward the coast, these places give you that rare feeling of being lifted above the everyday hustle. The open air, the view, and a good drink make these spots popular with locals and visitors who want to experience the city in a relaxed way. From downtown rooftops to spots near Port Phillip Bay, each bar brings its own character to Melbourne's nightlife and social scene.
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