As the culinary landscape of Australia continues to flourish, the Australian Capital Territory stands out with its eclectic dining options that marry local produce, innovative cooking techniques and beautiful settings. This article takes you through some of the most enchanting dining venues in Canberra, where each location provides a unique experience that reflects the diverse flavours and cultural richness we have come to cherish.
The Boat House - Barton, ACT
Surrounded by tranquil parkland and boasting breathtaking views of Lake Burley Griffin, The Boat House is a serene retreat from the bustling heart of Canberra. The restaurant's interior exudes a sense of warmth with its refined décor, elegant linens and ambient lighting, making it an ideal choice for celebratory dinners or intimate gatherings. The focus here is on seasonally sourced ingredients, expertly crafted into dishes that resonate with the area’s rich flavour profile. The combination of a wood-burning fireplace and picturesque lake views enhances the overall dining experience, wrapping you in comfort as you enjoy each course.
Culinary highlights include the smoked duck breast, a thoughtfully crafted dish paired with Pedro Ximenez cherries and radicchio, offering a beautiful balance of flavours, as well as the scallop tortellini served with salmon roe and crème fraîche that takes the coastal dining experience to new heights. For the main event, the rich White Pyrenees lamb noisette is paired with Tasmanian walnuts and earthy beetroot, while the Scotch fillet, dripping in a black garlic jus, leaves an indelible mark. Cap off your meal with the dark chocolate fudge paired with silky ice cream for a decadent conclusion.
Book now for an unforgettable seafood experience.
Silo Bakery - Kingston, ACT
Silo Bakery combines a dash of Brooklyn's trendy spirit with a whisper of Parisian charm, all tied together in a cheerful café setting on Giles Street. The moment you step inside, the atmosphere hums with vibrant conversation, the enticing aromas of freshly baked bread and artisanal goods inviting you to linger. With geometric tile flooring and classic white subway tiles, the space radiates a modern yet warm aesthetic that perfectly complements Canberra's café culture—ideal for spending leisurely mornings over brunch or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.
While brunching at Silo Bakery, do not miss their signature French toast, presented with Prosecco jelly, pomegranate coulis and housemade mascarpone—a delightful marriage of sweet and tart. For lunch, handmade pasta options shine alongside the fresh blue swimmer crab in a zesty tamarind broth or succulent slow-roasted pork belly, which harmonises beautifully with apple compote and tangy sauerkraut. Be sure to take home a loaf of their renowned sourdough or a slice of the heavenly pear and caramel tart to savour later.
Secure your table today for a delightful taste of Silo.
The District - Crace - Crace, ACT
The District - Crace is a welcoming gem nestled in Abena Avenue, providing a modern and cosy atmosphere perfect for both socialising and solitude. The warm, inviting décor coupled with stellar service creates a sense of community, as locals flock here for top-notch coffee and delightful meals throughout the day. The restaurant's bright, airy space, punctuated by greenery, is designed for easy relaxation, whether you are catching up with friends or soaking in the vibrant neighbourhood energy.
Start your morning with the delectable smoked salmon and cream cheese bagel, garnished with capers and pickled onions, or opt for a satisfying plate of Peking duck spring rolls to whet your appetite. Pasta lovers will appreciate the rigatoni with chilli prawns, while the surf and turf option delivers an unforgettable experience, featuring a tender Porterhouse steak adorned with seafood in a creamy garlic sauce.
Don’t miss out—reserve your experience at The District today.
White Rabbit - Canberra CBD, ACT
Nestled in the heart of Canberra on Northbourne Avenue, the White Rabbit cocktail room invites those with adventurous palates and vibrant spirits to explore its whimsical offerings. This hidden oasis charms with its moody ambiance, timber accents and lush greenery, providing a perfect backdrop for sipping innovative cocktails and indulging in a diverse selection of gourmet bites. From the moment you enter, the whimsical yet sophisticated decor captivates, inviting you to embark on a unique culinary journey.
The standout experience here is the Tipsy Tea, served on Saturdays and Sundays, offering high tea with a cheeky twist, featuring savoury bites paired with sweet treats, two cocktails and a glass of French Champagne—a truly outstanding way to elevate your afternoon. Further delight your senses with imaginative options like the Caterpillar gin cocktail playfully garnished with sour worms, or indulge in the delightful boozy ice cream selections. You can even order charcuterie boxes for ultimate convenience.
Join us at White Rabbit—book your experience now!
Kivotos - Canberra CBD, ACT
Delve into the vibrant tapestry of Greek cuisine at Kivotos on Mort Street in Braddon, where the spirit of Greece enchants with every dish. This lively restaurant takes you on a culinary odyssey, showcasing the rich cultural flavours and traditions that make Greek gastronomy so enthralling. With sleek blond wood furnishings and thoughtfully arranged greenery, the atmosphere is both contemporary and welcoming—a perfect space to relish a meal woven from stories steeped in heritage, sun-drenched landscapes and azure waters.
The menu brims with exquisite choices, beginning with the enchanting prawn saganaki, a medley of herbs and spices intermingling seamlessly with tomato salsa, ouzo and feta. Alternatively, the Greek lamb chops served with couscous salad are typically a crowd-pleaser, complemented by saffron-infused spiced yoghurt. Don’t overlook the irresistibly sweet conclusion of loukoumades, golden honey puffs adorned with walnuts and cinnamon that are simply the cherry on top of a wonderful meal.
Embark on a flavourful journey—reserve your table at Kivotos today.
With such a rich variety of culinary experiences, it is clear that ACT's dining scene is dynamic and tantalising. Each venue offers a doorway into a different world of flavours, making Canberra a destination worthy of exploration for any food lover. Whether you're in the mood for lakeside elegance, a bakery buzzing with life or a cultured Greek tableau, these dining experiences promise to leave a lasting impression and sate every culinary curiosity.
