Discover Delicious Dining at These NSW and ACT Readers’ Choice Awarded Venues

New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory’s dining scenes continue to thrive in 2025, blending innovation with inclusivity and sustainability.

Diners are seeking bold flavours, thoughtful experiences and value that goes beyond the plate; key dining trends include plant-based and native ingredients menus, carbon-calorie transparency, expanded non-alcoholic options, a strong commitment to dietary inclusivity and sustainable sourcing.

Whether urban or regional, foodies are making their mark on the Australian hospitality scene, none more so than by voting for their favourite venue in AGFG’s 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards announced this week.

Here is a snapshot of delicious RCA-winning dining destinations in the ACT and NSW to put on your radar.

Nestled on the serene banks of Lake Burley Griffin in Barton, The Boat House is a Modern Australian gem that's perfect for dining seekers. Surrounded by parkland, it offers breathtaking waterfront views and three elegantly appointed private dining rooms - all with deck access, floor-to-ceiling windows and a roaring fireplace in Winter.

 

Dine here to celebrate any special occasion in a truly unforgettable setting from a menu showcasing award-winning seasonal dishes like pork loin with Brussels sprouts, fennel and nduja, or lamb rump, parsnip, tarragon mustard and rainbow chard.

Nothing goes better with vintage shopping than a cup of coffee and café fare with flair and that's what you'll find at Salters at Dirty Janes in Fyshwick. This Canberra café offers delicious coffee, breakfast and lunch dishes in a retro-themed vibe of eclectic knick-knacks, banquette seating and a red awning over the door. 

 

Early risers stop in for potato rosti with smoked salmon, avocado and poached eggs, or join a lively lunch crowd for an Angus beef burger, layered with lettuce, tomato, gherkin, cheese, beet relish and chipotle mayo.

 

Portia’s Place in Kingston offers a classic, vibrant dining experience. Since opening its doors in 1996, this Cantonese Chinese institution remains a favourite thanks to its lively atmosphere and attentive service. This restaurant comes alive with the consistent hum of lively chatter in warm and inviting surroundings, making it a hub of food and fun for Canberra locals.

 

Savour sizzling garlic King prawns with snow peas and cashews, or stir-fried roasted duck with char siu pork, green beans and a side of steamed rice; vegetarians opt for deep-fried tofu or stir-fried seasonal mixed vegetables with oyster sauce. 

Molto Italian, nestled in Kingston Foreshore’s Element Building overlooking Lake Burley Griffin, is a standout in Canberra’s Italian dining scene. This trendy trattoria blends traditional Italian cooking with contemporary flair, showcased through housemade pasta, wood-fire pizza and an open kitchen that buzzes with activity.

 

Whether you’re planning a romantic date, family dinner, or group meal, Molto’s vibrant atmosphere and stunning water views - especially at sunset – make it a must-visit destination in the country’s capital.

Monster Kitchen & Bar, nestled in Ovolo Nishi in Canberra’s CBD, is a vibrant destination for bold, share-style dining. The menu champions seasonal, locally sourced produce - half of which remains plant-based - paired seamlessly with curated meats and seafood.

 

The sleek, contemporary interior, complete with mosaic accents, roaring fireplace and cosy lounge, creates a welcoming, energetic ambience. Monster Bar complements the food with inventive, seasonal cocktails and a thoughtfully selected wine list.

Offering stunning views from every table, Jonah’s on Bynya Road in Whale Beach is one of Australia’s most spectacular ocean retreats. Located on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, this Chef-hatted venue has uninterrupted sea views from floor-to-ceiling glass windows, while the terrace balcony perches on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean – ideal for whiling away an afternoon with your special someone and a bottle of bubbles.

 

Expect contemporary Modern Australian cuisine with a focus on seafood, as seen in dishes like whole rock lobster with thermidor sauce, orange mayo and lobster vinaigrette; or ocean trout, confit cherry tomato, cocktail onions and sauce vierge.

Embark on a gastronomic journey of fine French food at its best at L’isle de France Terrigal on Ena Street. Soak up expansive ocean views from inside and out at this classically chic venue, where a full glass frontage lets in natural light and white-clothed tables, napery and candles set an intimate ambience, ideal for lingering over dinner with someone special. 

 

Drawing inspiration from the diverse culinary heritage of Mauritius – the French island the restaurant is named for – expect tempters like pan-seared sweet and sour duck breast with daikon, roast fig and balsamic jus, or boeuf Bourguignon with potato purée, baby carrots and jus de cuisson.

For craft beer and quirky pub fare, Surry Hills locals drop into Dove & Olive on Devonshire Street. Step through the door and be enveloped in a warm, rustic vibe with hanging leadlight lights, pale wood tables and leather couch seating, opening onto a green courtyard, where guests can perch on a stool, ale in hand and catch up with friends.

 

Plating up Mod Oz fare with a hint of American comfort, choose pub classics like braised beef and stout pie in red wine gravy, or beer-battered flathead with thick-cut chips, mesclun leaf salad and tartar sauce, washed down with an ice-cold brew of choice.

Morriset foodies looking to appease serious hunger head down Yambo Street to find Chill’d Café & Bar. This well-loved local hangout oozes an industrial vibe of a stacked stone counter, recycled timber and a wall of greenery, while an open kitchen window gives glimpses of Chefs in action.

 

Sit awhile next to the wine barrel with a brew of choice and ponder an all-day menu of toasties, burgers and breaky tempters. Start your day with a bacon, egg, cheese and BBQ sauce roll, or stop by later and wrap your hands around a cheeseburger with sweet potato chips.

The Bootlegger Bar in Katoomba is a local family-friendly speakeasy that has earned a reputation as a haven for lovers of smoked culinary delights and innovative libations. Taking pride in crafting exquisite smoked meats, each bite bursting with rich, smoky flavours that leave guests craving more, Bootlegger doesn't stop at just food - its smoked drinks are a true testament to a dedication to the art of smoking.

 

Pair a Beez Kneez cocktail with low and slow-cooked pork ribs with slaw, pickles, corn and fries, or chow down on a smokehouse brisket burger with pickles, rocket, BBQ sauce and mustard. Don’t go past key lime pie with cream for the perfect finish.