Johnny’s Green Room has reopened and brought Tuscan terrace vibes to the corner of Lygon and Farady Streets. After months of being closed for renovations, the beloved Carlton venue now has a semi-retractable roof, so you can take in excellent city views all year round. On top of the refreshed menu, you’ll find plenty of delicious food and drink, led by Karen Martini and Matt Bax. They’ve also got a new sound system, so you can enjoy their music program throughout the year.
Johnny’s Green Room
For owners Jamie Valmorbida and Luca Sbardella, the revamp is the start of a new chapter for the popular rooftop bar.
“After five years, Johnny’s needed a refresh,” said Jamie. “But the catalyst was a permit to install a retractable roof so we can keep people comfortable all year round.”
On top of the 360-degree views, the venue also has an increased seating capacity for 260 people, leading to larger summer parties. There’s also an upgraded bar and kitchen, as well as new bathrooms and furniture.
Johnny’s Green Room will continue to collaborate with Hope St Radio to curate the music program. Some of Melbourne’s best DJs and musical acts will play at the venue and provide the perfect soundtrack for a breezy Italian summer.
Food and drink
Find a relaxed menu of share plates from Culinary Director Karen Martini. Graze on dishes like zucchine fritte with whipped cod’s roe and anchovy, stracciatella with green melon and cucumber, and calamari spiedini with Italian-style tartare sauce and fried parsley. You’ll also find plenty of pizza, made with 48-hour slow fermented dough. For something sweet, you can’t miss their special gelato soft-serve, with fior di latte gelato, chocolate fudge, and strawberry & pepper granita.
The drinks have been reimagined by cocktail maestro Matt Bax (Bar Americano, Tippling Club). Find fresh and spritzy drinks, with a seasonal menu that offers a taste into the different regions of Italy. Try the Amalfi-inspired Limoncello Margarita, made with in-house limoncello, a Hugo Spritz with handpicked spearmint, and a Pidapipo Sgroppino with fresh lemon gelato from the iconic gelateria. There’s also non-alcoholic options available, including a Zero Hugo Spritz and the Camomilla Sgroppino.
If you’re not after cocktails, there’s also a wine list created by sommelier George McCullough. You’ll also find local and imported beers available on tap.