Brisbane reaches new heights with the opening of Sky Deck

View from The Star's Sky Deck

LOCATION

Brisbane, Australia

PRODUCT

Cafe, Restaurant, Bar and unbelievable views!

MAPPING

Hospitality, Food & Beverage

Brisbane's social set get a new venue to lounge

The Star Grand Hotel and casino complex at Queens Wharf opened in a subdued fashion when it flung open its doors on August 28, 2024 coinciding with the River Fire fireworks spectacular. It's been six years since The Queens Wharf development began with the demolition of existing buildings in 2018. Now after 6 years; the Star can finally shine, offering Brisbane a whole new entertainment precinct to enjoy. Music by @MakeSoundMusic

A wonderful iconic feature of the complex is the sweeping Sky Deck located 100 metres above the river on level 23. The Sky Deck offers a whole new perspective of the city with fantastic views up and down the river and across to Southbank. Although open to the public, there are obvious signs of construction and finishing touches going on. While contemplating the view visitors can enjoy two of the first venues to open, Babblers and Cicada Blu bar.

Sky Deck viewing area

Cicada Blu bar

centrally positioned

Positioned in the central area of the Sky Deck the Cicada Blu serves up tap beer, wines and cocktails. It has a sophisticated but casual vibe, offering stunning views across South bank, and back towards the city centre.

WINE with a view

There is plenty of standing room however; seating is limited. As this venue matures, the needs of the venue and customers will become clear. Soft seating is available in a zone adjacent to the bar, soon to be another venue.

Babblers

alfresco dining

This versatile venue offers in-door and outdoor dining. Overall seating appears limited. As the Sky Deck grows in popularity it’s possible that seating will be a premium.

CAFE TURNS TO BAR

The coffee machine fires up in Babblers from 7am to cater for caffeine cravings. As the day progresses the space converts to a bar to cater for the lunch and dinner trade.

Stephen's Take

When I walked out of the elevator on level 23 I was in awe. I could be forgiven for for thinking I was on top of the Marina Bay Sands hotel in Singapore, it is still hard to believe this was Brisbane! The views were dramatic, the alfresco dining was pleasant, it was grand but at the same time there was a laid back Queensland feel. The Sky Deck really is a destination in itself and really gives the impression that Brisbane has grown up! Watch this space for more on The Star and Sky Deck.

Stephen

Unit of Competency Mapping

Content in this article relates to the following units of competency

Serve food and beverage

Source and use information on the hospitality industry

Please note; the purpose of this article is to introduce current hospitality trends. The content broadly applies to the units of competency listed. It is not intended that all content in this article maps directly to all performance evidence and knowledge evidence in the unit of competency.

Teacher Resources

For further information please take advantage of the following documents and website links!

The Sky Deck Website

Article and photos original by Stephen Duncan

Music acknowledgement: https://www.youtube.com/@MakeSoundMusic

Posted 18 October 2024

Bar Cafe