Inside Iris: Fortitude Valley’s Spanish-Inspired Rooftop Escape
Iris Rooftop has opened its doors in Fortitude Valley, bringing a Spanish-inspired menu and a cocktail-focused bar to the inner city. The venue sits 12 floors above Brunswick Street, offering sweeping views across the CBD and out to Moreton Island.
According to a review published in The Age, the space provides “imposing views” of the buildings lining Adelaide, Queen and Eagle Streets. The outlook stretches from the city centre to the ranges in the west and the island in the east.
Best Times to Visit for the View
While the scenery is described as “eye-popping”, the review suggests heading up before sundown. This timing allows guests to make the most of the vista and avoid the crowds that can make the venue a “tighter squeeze” late at night.
The location is positioned at the highest point of Brunswick Street, ensuring an unobstructed perspective of the surrounding skyline and waterways.
Cocktails by a Former Bartender of the Year Runner-Up
Drinks are a major focus at Iris, with a cocktail menu curated by Liam Shephard. Shephard is a former runner-up for Australian Bartender of the Year.
The bar is fuelled by an “enormous backbar” featuring long lists of gin, whisky, and tequila and mezcal. There is also a “hefty globe-trotting wine list” and five beers on tap for those preferring a pint.
Spanish-Inspired Dishes from the Ghanem Group
Iris is a venue from the Ghanem Group, the operators behind Donna Chang and Blackbird. As a result, the Spanish-inspired food menu is not an afterthought.
The menu features dishes such as fried zucchini blossoms with whipped ricotta dip and grilled tiger prawns with garlic and pimento pepper dressing.
For a main course, the venue serves a seafood paella finished with Australian Bay lobster, shellfish and chorizo. The food is designed to complement the extensive drink list.
Booking and Venue Features
The venue accepts bookings and is listed as suitable for groups and date nights. It features outdoor dining and is categorised as a rooftop bar with a separate bar area.
Patrons can save the venue in the Good Food app to keep track of restaurant reviews and news. The listing highlights the venue’s great or interesting view as a key feature.
