The Exhibitionist Bar

Perched atop the HOTA Gallery, The Exhibitionist Bar looks out across the Gold Coast and the Hinterland with cinematic sweep. It is a sophisticated hideaway for handcrafted drinks, its revolving cocktail list taking cues from major art exhibitions to keep each visit feeling fresh, playful and just a little provocative.

The kitchen matches the view with gourmet bar food that blends coastal purity, Asian brightness and European comfort. Think oysters served with mignonette or natural, and Hervey Bay cuttlefish glossed with scorched coconut milk and finger lime. A chicken sandwich layers peanut fried chicken with Thai sweet chili ham and green papaya salad, while steak frites arrives with a deft pickled pepper jus. Wood-fired cravings are met by peking duck pizza with hoisin, cucumber and green onion, or a margherita crowned with fior di latte, basil and olive oil. To finish, perhaps a triple chocolate brownie with caramelised crème fraîche ice cream, or a pineapple tart tatin paired with palm sugar ice cream; early risers might sneak in a jalapeno and cheddar croissant or the cheeky brookie muffin.

Vibrant yet elegant, this rooftop bolthole suits spontaneous meet-ups and planned celebrations alike, inviting guests to relax and indulge any day of the week. Drift up for sunset, sip something inspired, and let the skyline do the talking then stay for supper and make a delightful exhibition of it.