Carlton’s beloved rooftop bar, is embracing the chill this winter with a nod to the Italian Alps. Inspired by Cortina, the “Queen of the Dolomites,” Johnny’s Green Room invites Melburnians to experience Italian après-chic in the heart of Carlton.

The rooftop has been transformed into the Italian Alps with retractable awnings, glass screens, and heaters. Signature Waverley Mills blankets add to the warmth, ensuring guests stay cozy while enjoying the stunning views. In June, Johnny’s will unveil over 50 custom-designed steel and glass panels, fully enclosing the venue for a snug winter experience.

A New Seasonal Cocktail List

Anchoring this Italian Alps embrace is a new seasonal cocktail list crafted by head cocktail maestro, Matthew Bax. Drawing inspiration from the Dolomites ski runs, the drinks range from easy-going to expert-level concoctions.

BLU: Out of Season A delightfully fruity cocktail inspired by Ernest Hemingway’s short story set in Cortina. This drink features Pidapipo’s passionfruit sorbet, cachaca, mezcal, bourbon, bergamot liqueur, bianco vermouth, and fresh lime, resembling a fancy, grown-up spider.

ROSSO: The 1956 Winter Games This berry-heavy classic sour celebrates the shared 1956 Winter Games connection between Melbourne and Cortina. Ingredients include winter berries, fig balsamic, pomegranate, alpine amari, rye and bourbon whisky, with a citrus foam.

NERA: For Your Eyes Only An especially boozy martini made with 48.5% Four Pillars Navy Strength Gin, olive oil, and your choice of lemon twist or house-salted Sicilian olives. This cocktail is a homage to 80’s Bond, evoking the glamour of the ski slopes.

VERDE: The Champagne Set For those taking on Dry July, this non-alcoholic option features vanilla and aromatic bitters, a spiced sugar cube, lemon twist, and sparkling chamomile, reminiscent of the Hollywood elite’s visits to Cortina.

Winter Delights on the Menu

The menu, curated by Culinary Director Karen Martini, features seasonal delights. Start with fior di latte mozzarella paired with fluffy woodfired pizze palloncino. A reimagined kingfish crudo with capers and pickled kohlrabi verjuice jelly adds a fresh touch. Traditional Italian specials like San Daniele prosciutto with fefferoni and polpette al sugo con stracciatella warm the soul. Finish with a panforte sticky date pudding, served with Pidapipo’s fior di latte gelato.