Australia’s Capital City Quietly Transformed Into A Rising Dining Star

Just a few hours from Sydney, Australia’s capital city has been quietly making waves as a dining destination offering maximum value and convenience. In Canberra, you’ll trade crowded streets, traffic, and complicated public transport for a relaxed city vibe where you can reach most dining spots in ten to twenty minutes.

Beyond accessibility, it’s the gateway to the Canberra District wine region, renowned for exceptional cool-climate wines. The dining scene emphasizes local, seasonal, and sustainable ingredients, celebrating global flavors while highlighting boutique and artisan producers.

And now is the perfect time to visit, as Fiji Airways launched a direct flight to Canberra in 2023 which has seen healthy demand. The Canberra-Nadi route not only makes it easier to reach one of Australia’s most underrated cities, it provides seamless onward travel to North America, the South Pacific, and more.

Ready to explore? Here are 7 must-try restaurants in Canberra to experience the city’s thrilling food scene.

Ballyhoo

One of Canberra’s most exciting new restaurants, Ballyhoo opened in the past inside the National Triangle. Led by acclaimed local chef Dave Young, Ballyhoo features bold communal shared plates inspired by Mediterranean and South American flavors. The wood-fired grill and pizza oven infuse a smokey depth into dishes such as fluffy wood-fired bread, flakey whole wood-grilled rainbow trout and chimichurri topped and caramelized crusted grilled Wagyu steak. With an evolving menu showcasing seasonal ingredients, it’s one of Canberra’s newest hot spots.

Koto

Set within the historic location of the former Lobby Restaurant in Canberra’s National Triangle, Koto is a kaiseki-inspired Japanese restaurant helmed by executive chef Shinya Nakano. Nakano’s masterfully blends traditional Japanese kaiseki philosophies while incorporating seasonality and local flavors. At Koto, the standout choice is the tasting menu, where each dish reflects artistry and precision. For those exploring the extensive robata menu, try the Kagoshima Japanese wagyu and Japanese pumpkin. There’s also an extensive selection of Japanese spirits and Japanese tattoo inspired cocktails

Onzieme

Crowned ‘’Restaurant of the Year’ in 2023, Onzieme brings the essence of Parisian bistronomy to Canberra featuring local produce and an ever evolving menu. This intimate space showcases the magic of its wood-fired, where fire and coal impart its flavors to innovative small plates. The menu reflects a nose to tail philosophy and creative use of ingredients in standout dishes like fish head with miso sambal, apple glazed lamb rib and gim bugak (Korean-style fried seaweed paper) with whipped tofu. Paired with an exceptional wine list, here refined techniques with an unforgettable culinary experience.

Jamala Lodge

For a truly unique experience, check into Jamala Wildlife Lodge tucked within the grounds of the National Zoo & Aquarium. Here you can sleep beside purring lions or take a bubble bath next to tigers in one of the property’s luxurious safari-style suites. An all inclusive stay includes meals with the highlight being the four-course African styled dinner. Start with six dinner canapes with dishes like Wagyu beef sosatie (South African skewers), traditional African chicken bobotie (South African casserole with minced meat) and Sydney rock oysters. For dessert, make sure to order the chocolate sphere, which breaks open to reveal chocolate mousse and berries.

Braddon Merchant

Situated within the chic Midnight Hotel in the heart of Braddon, Braddon Merchant has earned accolades, including the title of the Best Wine List in ACT for its extensive drinks and wine menu. This modern spot champions local produce on an all-day menu of modern Australian cuisine featuring standout dishes such as the Midnight Wagyu burger, slow roasted lamb shoulder ragu and butter scallops. After indulging in the restaurant’s vibrant flavors, take a few steps to the stylish Midnight Bar to round off your evening with a signature cocktail or glass of wine.

Beltana Farm

Based in the lush tree-filled Pialligo suburb, just ten minutes from the city center, Beltana Farm offers a multifaceted experience as a restaurant, truffle farm and luxury retreat. The property spans 800 trees making it a serene escape for both food and nature lovers. The restaurant highlights farmhouse shared plates with seasonally changing options such as truffle and cuttlefish salami and smoked lamb rump. Beyond dining, guests can explore the truffle orchard, truffle hunting tours, and overnight stays in luxury yurts.

Carlotta

Newly opened in the heart of Canberra’s CBD Carlotta, is the coastal Mediterranean concept from Australian restaurateur Chris Lucas, the visionary behind Chin Chin, Grill Americano and Kisumé. At its core is a bustling open kitchen centered around a wood-fired Naples oven. The menu shines with an extensive selection of Italian mozzarella and salumi, freshly made daily pasta, and wood-fired specialties such as scotch fillet or the NY strip sirloin. Make sure to order the focaccia to round out the meal.