There’s something magical about dining above the clouds. As I step out of the private elevator onto the 40th floor of Oakwood Premier Melbourne, I’m immediately struck by the breathtaking panorama before me. At 139 metres above the city, Strato Melbourne doesn’t just offer dinner with a view – it redefines what elevated dining means in our city.
The journey begins in the lobby of 202 Normanby Street, where a dedicated entrance signals that this isn’t your typical hotel restaurant. As the elevator doors open, I’m greeted by a space that somehow manages to be both grandiose and intimate. The 7-metre tall glass windows frame Melbourne like a living artwork, stretching from Port Phillip Bay to the CBD skyline and beyond.
The bar lounge, with its impressive 16-metre stone bar, immediately catches my eye. The illuminated glass brick frame adds a subtle sophistication, while the alfresco terrace – reminiscent of New York’s finest rooftop venues – provides an outdoor space that feels both cosmopolitan and distinctly Melbourne. It’s the kind of space that makes you want to linger over cocktails and watch the city lights emerge as dusk settles.
Speaking of cocktails, Strato’s mixologists demonstrate genuine artistry. The Beyond Violet, with its butterfly pea flower gin and guava soju, is as visually stunning as it is delicious. For those seeking something more substantial, the Caribbean Breakfast – a clever blend of spiced rum, peanut butter whisky, coffee liqueur, and maple syrup – offers an intriguing twist on traditional cocktail concepts.
The restaurant space itself seats 100 guests, yet manages to maintain an air of intimacy. The romantically modern setting, complemented by both booth and table seating options, creates the perfect backdrop for what proves to be an exceptional foodie journey. The private bar, with its filtered glass bottom and subtle lighting, adds another layer of sophistication to the space.
The menu, celebrating contemporary modern Australian cuisine, reads like a love letter to Victorian produce. My entrée of Black Opal Wagyu Beef Carpaccio sets a high bar, which is then exceeded by the Honey Glazed Duck Breast from the Macedon Ranges. The kitchen’s commitment to local, seasonal ingredients is evident in every dish, from the Thomastown Burrata to the Victorian Mt Leura 4-point Lamb Rack.
Dessert proves equally impressive, with the Dark Chocolate Cube providing a theatrical finale. Its velvety caramel centre and passion fruit drops demonstrate the kitchen’s ability to balance flavours and textures with precision.
What sets Strato apart isn’t just its height or its views; though both are spectacular. It’s the attention to detail that elevates every aspect of the experience. The staff move with practiced efficiency, demonstrating deep knowledge of both food and wine lists. The extensive wine selection, offering both local and international options, shows careful curation, with by-the-glass options that encourage exploration.
For those seeking privacy, the VIP dining room and Level 41’s exclusive space offer discrete options for special occasions or business gatherings. The sheer curtain drapes in the private dining room provide an elegant solution for those seeking a more intimate experience without sacrificing the spectacular views.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, entertaining clients, or simply seeking an extraordinary dining experience, Strato delivers something truly memorable. In a city known for setting high standards in dining, Strato Melbourne doesn’t just meet expectations – it soars above them.
