Madame Brussels

The verdict

Named after an eccentric 19th century brothel owner, Madame Brussels in the CBD is the stuff of fairy tales. When you arrive up high in the sky (via 7 flights of stairs or lift), you'll behold a garden party - astro turf, white wicker chairs and pink walls, opening up to one of the best rooftop and city views of Melbourne. It's all about the cocktails here, with Pimms, rosé and punch brewed in teapots, plus a wide variety of cupcakes to put your sweet tooth into overdrive. If you fall in love with the Madame and want her all to yourself, private bookings are accomodated. The fully catered High Tea option is popular with hens, who are particularly partial to the charming waiters in tennis whites.