Johnny’s Green Room

Johnny’s Green Room is a rooftop bar with Italian-beach-club energy and sweeping views of Carlton’s treetops and the city skyline. It’s in the landmark King and Godfree complex, which is home to King and Godfree Deli and Grocer. Entry is via King and Godfree Lane, where a lift takes you up to the open-air space.

The Italo snacks menu is by celebrity chef Karen Martini – and best enjoyed in the afternoon sun. It might feature crumbed zucchini fritters with whipped cod roe and Ortiz anchovies; stracciatella with fresh green melon and cucumber; and calamari spiedini fritti (semolina-crumbed, fried and skewered calamari) swiped through Italian tartare. There are also blistery pizzas made with 48-hour-fermented dough. Toppings range from a customary margherita to a bianco e verde with asparagus, confit garlic, parmesan, lemon, marjoram, pine nuts and stracciatella.

As for the drinks, Matt Bax (of Bar Americano fame) is behind the easy-drinking Italian cocktails – among them, an Amalfi-inspired Limoncello Margarita (with house-made mescal-based limoncello) and a fizzy Sgroppino (with Pidapipo lemon sorbet, vodka and prosecco), plus non-alc versions. Meanwhile, the wine list leans on savoury, textural and fragrant whites from Italy, including drops from cult producer Cantina Giardino, plus chilled reds from local emerging winemakers.

The Dion Hall-led fit-out (Music Room, Her Bar) features earthy materials like Douglas fir timber, terracotta tiles and natural zinc, alongside deck chairs and vintage Italian lighting. The rooftop is big enough to comfortably fit 200 people – which it does consistently throughout the warmer months. In winter, a semi-retractable roof and smattering of open fireplaces keep Johnny’s humming. A live music program curated by Hope St Radio makes a fitting backdrop year round.