![Guy Richardson and Kim-ling Richardson](https://the-riotact.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/0P6A9850-810x540.jpg)
Guy Richardson and Kim-ling Richardson at the official launch of The Howling Moon.
Rooftop bars are synonymous with big cities, and finally, Canberra can join the club with the official launch of The Howling Moon at the Rex Hotel on Northbourne.
Boasting panoramic views of the city, this newish venue is the perfect watering hole for after-work drinks on a Friday, (or Thursday, if the week is too long!),
VIP guests were treated to cocktails and an exclusive tasting from its Tame the Wild menu while local DJ Ashley Feraude spun the decks.
While classic cocktails are great, I prefer to walk on the wild side and sampled some from their signature menu instead, to go with the perfect antipasto platter.
As a new fan of gin, the ‘Mellow Melon’ was irresistible. With a gin base, it is balanced with watermelon, vanilla liqueur and apple juice (I’ll be back for more soon!).
The Howling Moon is a gorgeous place to relax, with an additional bar below connected by a dramatic glass staircase.
To round up the night, patrons can move down to the elegant Swan & King, which offers an extensive cocktail menu and an ambient setting.
Abuzz with energy and celebration, the official launch attracted a number of Canberra’s socialites who caught my eye.
![Sarafina Manyang and Janette Wojtaszak](https://the-riotact.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/0P6A9794-810x540.jpg)
Sarafina Manyang and Janette Wojtaszak.
![Grant Heino and Andrew Giddings.](https://the-riotact.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/0P6A9795-810x540.jpg)
Grant Heino and Andrew Giddings.
![Molly Usher Clarke, Lee Usher-Clarke and Olivia Meenie.](https://the-riotact.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/0P6A9798-810x540.jpg)
Molly Usher Clarke, Lee Usher-Clarke and Olivia Meenie.
![Neon Sign Stay wild](https://the-riotact.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/0P6A9820-810x540.jpg)
![Jackie Gregory and Emma Nobel](https://the-riotact.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/0P6A9813-810x540.jpg)
Jackie Gregory and Emma Nobel.
![Michelle Ho and Nathan Harradine-hale.](https://the-riotact.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/0P6A9815-810x540.jpg)
Michelle Ho and Nathan Harradine-Hale.
![Mark Willoughby, Jewels Major and Neill Van Der Walt](https://the-riotact.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/0P6A9822-810x540.jpg)
Mark Willoughby, Jewels Major and Neill Van Der Walt.
![Glenn Keys and Robyn Hendry](https://the-riotact.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/0P6A9832-810x540.jpg)
Glenn Keys and Robyn Hendry.
![Julie Mckenzie and Emma Bickley](https://the-riotact.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/0P6A9835-810x540.jpg)
Julie Mckenzie and Emma Bickley.
![Prudence Card and Emma Bishop.](https://the-riotact.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/0P6A9841-810x540.jpg)
Prudence Card and Emma Bishop.
![Greg Taylor and Maurits de Graeff](https://the-riotact.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/0P6A9846-810x540.jpg)
Greg Taylor and Maurits de Graeff.
The Howling Moon: Rex Hotel, 150 Northbourne Avenue, Canberra.
Open: Wednesday – Thursday, 4 – 10 pm; Friday – Saturday, 4 pm- 12 am; Sunday, 2- 9 pm.