Sydney’s rooftop bar scene is about to get a stunning new addition, with Sora Rooftop & Sky Lounge opening on May 22 atop the heritage-listed Nelson House in the heart of the CBD.
Perched above Clarence Street, the two-level venue combines sweeping city views, sophisticated cocktails and a rich slice of Sydney history. Sitting on the rooftop of the landmark building at 285 Clarence Street, Sora offers two distinct spaces: an open-air rooftop terrace designed for sunset drinks and social gatherings, and an intimate Sky Lounge upstairs where guests can settle in for dinner, celebrations and late-night cocktails.
What makes the location particularly special is the building itself. Constructed between 1910 and 1911, Nelson House originally served as a warehouse during Sydney’s booming commercial era, when Clarence Street was a bustling trade corridor connecting Darling Harbour’s busy wharves with the city’s rail freight network. Designed by renowned architectural firm Spain, Cosh & Epslin, the building remains one of the area’s historic warehouse landmarks.
Adding to the venue’s charm is a fascinating local tale that some of the structural steel used in the building may have originated from surplus materials linked to the construction of the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge, giving the site an extra connection to Sydney’s architectural history.
Sora accommodates around 120 guests across its two levels, each with its own distinct atmosphere. The lower rooftop is designed for relaxed drinks and quick cocktail service, while the upstairs Sky Lounge offers a more refined experience for seated dining and private events.
The interiors are just as eye-catching as the views. Guests will be greeted by dramatic ceiling installations, including an infinity mirror feature on the rooftop level and suspended glass bird sculptures floating throughout the Sky Lounge. The result is a space that feels bright and vibrant during the day before transforming into a moody, sophisticated setting after dark.
Behind the project is hospitality operator Ronny Dubé, best known for Sydney nightclub Noir. His experience in the nightlife scene is reflected in Sora’s transition from laid-back sunset sessions to a lively late-night destination, complete with DJs spinning tracks on weekend evenings.
Leading the kitchen is Pablo Poblete, whose career spans more than two decades across some of Sydney’s most respected dining venues, including Pendolino and Icebergs Dining Room and Bar.
The menu focuses on share-style dining with modern Australian and Mediterranean influences. Expect fresh Sydney rock oysters served multiple ways, kingfish ceviche with citrus leche de tigre, wagyu tartare, seared scallops with miso butter, and indulgent larger plates including seafood ravioli packed with prawn, crab and lobster. Meat lovers can also enjoy premium Australian cuts such as Jack’s Creek grain-fed sirloin and Kimbara wagyu.
Naturally, cocktails take centre stage, supported by a carefully curated wine list showcasing Australian producers alongside a premium spirits selection.
Open Wednesday to Friday from 5pm until late and Saturdays from midday through to 2am, Sora is shaping up to be one of Sydney’s most exciting new rooftop destinations. Whether you’re stopping by for golden-hour cocktails, a long lunch, dinner with friends or a night out in the city, the venue offers a unique blend of heritage architecture, skyline views and contemporary hospitality.
For Sydneysiders looking for a new spot to watch the sun set over the city, Sora Rooftop & Sky Lounge may soon become the hottest seat in town.
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