While the $3.6-billion Queen’s Wharf precinct won’t be short of awe-inspiring amenities, we’d be lying if we said we weren’t most excited to check out the Sky Deck. The observation deck, located 100-m above ground at the top of The Star Brisbane’s arc-shaped resort building and open to the public 24/7, will give visitors a chance to take in unparalleled views of Brisbane and its surrounds. While the 250-m-long runway will no doubt be a popular spot for sunrise and sunset selfies, Sky Deck’s own drinking and dining venues will pair the stirring views with some equally captivating culinary offerings. The Star Brisbane has announced the names and first details of Sky Deck’s three residents – refined reef-and-beef restaurant Aloria, bubbly and beatific all-day bistro Babblers, and pulsating party spot Cicada Blu.

Described as The Star Brisbane’s signature pinnacle dining experience, Aloria will certainly be one of the precinct’s most in-demand bookings. Using time-honoured woodfire techniques, this elegant-yet-approachable Euro-inspired eatery will serve a menu anchored firmly by tip-top produce – we’re talking dynamo dry-aged beef and sensational Queensland seafood. In addition to the fare, Aloria’s own ‘cellar in the sky’ will be filled with bottles of premium vino, while a dedicated martini menu will offer everything from simple, well-executed classics to rip-roaring riffs. Where Aloria will be the go-to for blow-out banquets, casual all-day diner Babblers will be a more relaxed space. Named after the Babbler bird family, this family-friendly nosh-spot-meets-social-hub will specialise in share-style options that’ll satisfy the whole flock – including hand-crafted flatbreads crowned with seasonal produce – as well as a drinks list filled with Australian craft beer and wine. At the centre of Sky Deck will sit Cicada Blu, an open-air bar serving pre-dinner aperitifs and botanical-infused post-dinner cocktails. Equipped with a sophisticated light installation inspired by Brisbane’s electrifying summer storms and cloud formations, Cicada Blu will beam like a beacon from Sky Deck’s elevated perch.

All three venues, designed by specialist hospitality design director Paul Kelly, will look to imbue traces of Queensland’s natural beauty, capitalising on Brisbane’s sunny disposition with an aesthetic palette of neutral shades accented by pops of blush-hued tones and greenery. “We have gone above and beyond to consider every detail of each venue and how the trio seamlessly integrate to serve up unforgettable moments in the sky. Aloria is destination dining redefined, Babblers brings a sense of familiarity through its warmth and charm, and Cicada Blu is the magnetic centre that brings the three together,” says Dustin Osuch, The Star Brisbane’s general manager of food and beverage. “From a breezy brunch or long relaxed lunch swapping stories with friends, to sunset soirees, intimate dinner dates or celebrations that continue late into the evening, Sky Deck will deliver endless opportunities for locals and visitors to choose their own adventure. Guests will no doubt visit for the views, stay for the experience, and come back for the memories.”

The Star Brisbane at Queen’s Wharf will open to the public in April 2024 alongside previously announced food-and-drink concepts Cucina Regina, Fat Noodle, Cherry and more.