Runner Up Rooftop Bar

Set above 35 Johnston Street in Collingwood Yards, Runner Up Rooftop Bar offers an open-air setting with views towards Melbourne’s inner north. The venue describes itself as casual and easy-going, making it a place for catching up with familiar faces or meeting new ones. A retractable awning, along with heating and air conditioning, helps keep the rooftop usable across different weather conditions.

The food offering is deliberately light, with dolmades, olives and chips available at the bar. After 5pm, pizzas can also be ordered to the venue from nearby Thin Slizzy. This is more suited to grazing and drinks than a full sit-down meal, with the rooftop atmosphere and regular music programming forming much of the appeal.

DJs play every Friday and Saturday, with occasional sets on Thursdays and Sundays. The venue is connected with Melbourne enterprises including A Lounge, Colour Club, Mildlife and Confetti Studio, giving it a creative local context without making the space feel formal. Children are welcome when actively supervised, and dogs can join provided they remain on lead. The website promotes walk-ins, while noting that bookings may be available outside the busiest weekend periods; larger exclusive functions are best arranged out of hours. Runner Up is open Wednesday to Sunday, with later trading on Friday and Saturday.