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The Observatory at Garden State Hotel

Pub
50 Seated
120 Standing

101 Flinders Lane, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

4.1 (1878)
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Space ID: 17307
Located on the top level, The Observatory is our premier function space boasting a private balcony with views of the enchanting Beer Garden below and the twinkling lights of the city above. The space includes a private bar, bathrooms, projector, screen and dance floor with exclusive lift access.

Contact Garden State Hotel

4.1 (1878)
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Usually responds within 24 hours


Room Layouts & Capacity

Cluster50
Standing120

Amenities & Extras

$= Additional Cost

Food & Beverage

Bar Tab$
Venue Offers Catering$

Audio Visual Equipment (AV)

Microphone
Speakers$
TV$

Other Amenities & Extras

Accessible
Air Con
Lighting
Natural light
On-Site Parking
Restroom
Security$
WiFi

Google iconReviews for Garden State Hotel

Cansu Parlak

February 25, 2026

It’s definitely a spot we consider worth the 45-minute wait. Whether it’s a girls’ night, a team gathering, or a spontaneous after-work beer, this place has become one of our go-to favorites in the city center. What keeps us coming back is not just the vibe, but the food and drinks. The menu is satisfying without being overly complicated , flavorful, well-seasoned, and generous in portion. The dishes pair perfectly with their ice-cold beers, which always hit the spot after a long workday. It’s the kind of place where comfort food meets a lively social atmosphere. When it’s busy (which is often), service can slow down a bit, and since we usually arrive hungry after work, timing matters. But the quality makes up for it. Now, if you’re looking for a quiet dinner with soft background music, this probably isn’t it. The music is loud, the crowd is energetic, and conversations happen at full volume. It’s vibrant, slightly chaotic, and very much alive. But if you’re craving bold flavors, cold beer, and a dynamic city vibe, this is absolutely one of the top spots downtown. The ambiance is youthful, warm, and buzzing with energy. It’s the kind of place you choose when you want good food, good drinks, and a fun night out, not silence.

Natasha Lara

January 17, 2026

Such an amazing space! The atmosphere is so calm. Service & food was incredible - we particularly loved the pizza! Great place for lunch with friends, or even with kids! The natural vibes & layout with all the plants definitely gives it a unique touch.

KANYA CITTASTHIRA

January 4, 2026

While the place is quite new and it was buzzing with crowds and live music, the food were very average. Lamb shoulder - meat was too dry. Sides coleslaw - feels like packaged one from supermarket Pork chop - way too dry (overdone) Service - pretty much non existent. Not sure if its because weekend after NYE. Or it’s usually that busy hence staff were just way too busy to serve. We asked for tap water and glasses, was told to go to the bar ourselves. The staff at the bar was not helpful when we asked where we can get bottle of water and glasses. Our table was still wet and sticky from previous guests. We had to wait over half hour until we can get staff to re-wipe table. Ordering and payment all done via QR code. Very loud music, so quite difficult for chat/talking.

aaron taranto

June 13, 2026

Absolutely disappointing experience from start to finish. The bar itself was overcrowded, drinks took forever to arrive, and the atmosphere felt more chaotic than enjoyable. What really ruined the night, however, was the attitude of both the staff and security. The bouncers came across as unnecessarily aggressive and seemed more interested in intimidating patrons than helping them. A simple question was met with a rude response, which immediately set the tone for the evening. Unfortunately, the staff weren't much better. Customer service appeared to be an afterthought, with several employees acting dismissive and uninterested whenever assistance was needed. For the prices being charged, you'd expect at least a basic level of professionalism and respect. There are plenty of other venues that value their customers and know how to create a welcoming environment. I certainly won't be returning and wouldn't recommend this place to anyone looking for a good night out.

Jay Thompson

January 14, 2026

My wife and I visited last week to grab a bite to eat before the cricket, and we just wanted to pass on some positive feedback. The food and service were fantastic. We also had a great chat with the security guard out the front — he was friendly, professional, and very welcoming. The entire security team were excellent as well and helped create a great overall experience.


Other spaces at this venue

3 Spaces Available At This Venue
Balcony Dining Room

Balcony Dining Room

The Balcony Dining Room is a showstopper. The secluded space is perfect for intimate celebrations. Complete with gorgeous views of Melbourne’s skyline above and our botanical Beer Garden below, private lift access, private balcony, and private bathroom, nothing will interrupt your experience.
20
Price on Request
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Rose Garden

Rose Garden

The Rose Garden is a vibrant, eclectic cocktail bar located on the basement level, accessible through Melbourne’s iconic AC/DC Lane and Duckboard Place or by descending through the Beer Garden above. Ideal for large events with extension into the Beer Garden tiers, the Rose Garden has exclusive lift access and comes equipped with private bar, projector, screen, dancefloor and terrace at the foot of the Beer Garden.
200
Price on Request
View More Details
Beer Garden

Beer Garden

Located on the centre of the venue and offering a mix of seated and standing spaces, the Beer Garden is the perfect location for more casual get togethers. Enjoy a full service food and beverage package with exclusive waitstaff while you mingle with guests and soak up the atmosphere from the venue around you. Standing: 25 – 45 guests
25
45
Price on Request
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Venue Hours

Monday12:00pm-Midnight
Tuesday12:00pm-Midnight
Wednesday12:00pm-Midnight
Thursday12:00pm-Midnight
Friday12:00pm-Midnight
Saturday12:00pm-Midnight
Sunday12:00pm-Midnight
Pricing Price on request

Event Types

21st Birthday Party30th Birthday Party40th Birthday Party50th Birthday PartyBaby ShowerBirthday PartyBridal ShowerChristeningChristmas PartyCocktail PartyCorporate FunctionDinnerEnd of Financial Year PartyEngagement PartyFunctionHens PartyLunchNetworking EventProduct LaunchTrivia Night

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