In Perth, it seems that roof top bars are the new black. And why not? Not only are they a fabulous way to use space, you are up high and often have magnificent views as a result.  Here’s my top five list of roof top bars in Perth:

1. Mechanics’ Institute Bar
2. Bob’s Bar at the Print Hall
3. The Aviary
4. The Green House
5. The Conservatory

Special mention must go to a local of mine, The Cabin in Mt Hawthorn, and the Roof Top Movies - whilst not technically a bar, you can buy beer there and it is a super cool space.

1. Mechanics’ Institute Bar

Urban, grungy, warehouse feel with scaffolding, exposed brick and long plank tables – then inside their bar tenders are renowned for their cocktails. Entrance is via a back alley making this Northbridge roof top bar feel like you could be in Melbourne lane way. Best of all, you can order a Flipside Burger from the bar and it gets delivered to your table.  Beer is reasonably priced as are cocktails that range from $12 to $17.  It’s a busy place and the bar is often two deep on Friday evenings.  Despite the staff shaking and stirring cocktails for eager patrons, the efficient service means you are served quite quickly.  A cool place that attracts a mixed age group. I like it.

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2. The Print Hall – Bob’s Bar

Part of the Brookfield Place complex in the city, the Print Hall comprises of several bars and restaurant in the old West Australian newspaper building. The roof top bar is an ode to Australia’s larrikin former Prime Minister, Bob Hawke.  Bob’s Bar is popular with young hip city dressers.  The wine list was average, the service was good, the large ottomans, wooden outdoor furniture and roof top shrubs are nice. Love that part of the roof can close to keep the rain or cold out.  It’s a slick city space that charges Perth city prices.

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3. The Aviary – the Nest

This place certainly made a splash when it opened in November last year (2011). Queues would be the norm most nights of the week.  Artificial grass, big canvas umbrellas, high wooden tables, massive big screen (awesome on Melbourne Cup day!) and a killer view are the elements that set a über cool ambience at the Aviary.  In the Bird Cage downstairs and indoors, you’ll find a restaurant that has had mixed reviews. Expect to pay Perth city prices for a drink here.

The Nest roof top bar is a great place for a drink when the sun is out and it’s not too hot.  On those baking Perth summer’s days, you might go looking like a cool chick, but there’s big chance you’ll leave as a roast chook!

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4.  The Greenhouse

The Greenhouse sometimes gets overlooked as a roof top bar because it has such a good reputation as a restaurant. The outside is alive with stacked planter boxes that make this place unique and, well, green. Everything that was used to build the Greenhouse was from recycled material – the stools are converted from wooden packing crates to form seats and candle holders are empty jars.  The roof top bar is small and has a lovely feel to it.  Surrounded by planter boxes growing herbs that are used in the kitchen downstairs, the Greenhouse roof top bar sits in the shade of the tall buildings around it. A great place to have a drink before eating downstairs.

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5. The Conservatory

The Conservatory was the first cool roof top bar to open in Perth when it opened its doors and its roof in 2011.  That’s right, it has a super cool retractable roof.  Artificial grass gives the indoor space an outdoor feel and when the roof is open, well, I suppose you are outdoors. Kind of.  The stairs leading up require some skill to negotiate particularly if you are wearing high heels.  The wooden tables and outdoor BBQ give it a relaxed vibe. It’s popular with the city set on a Friday evening. The restaurant has had mixed reviews and expect to pay Perth city prices for drinks. It’s a pleasant space for a drink and a shared plate of nibbles.

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So what are Perth city prices?  Expect to pay $8 for a half pint of beer on tap, $10 or more for a Corona beer, $12-15 for a glass of wine, and $18-25 for cocktails.

What is your favourite roof top bar in your home town?