Six new Canberra eateries that are here to stay

Posted on 31 December, 2019

2019 saw scores of new Canberra restaurants open their doors.

For our latest print Magazine: Shine we profiled six we think are here to stay. 

Amici Wine Bar & Deli

Credit: Ashley St George.

As friendly as the name suggests, this gorgeous bar and deli is nestled under the heritage-listed arches of the historic Melbourne Building and brings a little slice of Italy to Civic.

Make it past the showstopper Negroni fountain and you’ll discover boutique wines, crafted cocktails—including a range of selection of no and low-alcohol creations—classic Italian charcuterie and cheese, hand-pulled pizza and more.

Credit: Ashley St George.

Situated just across the way from Civic’s light rail station, those heading home or to social engagements after work can nab themselves a takeaway antipasti platter and matched bottle of wine.

In the daylight, Amici serves up coffee, salads, sandwiches and other grab-and-go options.

Credit: Ashley St George.

59 Northbourne Avenue, Canberra City | amici.bar

Fenway Public House

Credit: Tim Bean.

Woden nights haven’t been this vibrant in—well—pretty much forever.

Fenway Public House has well and truly cemented itself as the region’s new local, bringing much-needed after-dark buzz.

Anchoring Westfield Woden’s Bradley Street dining precinct, the contemporary gastropub boasts multi-levels including a mezzanine which overlooks a large U-shaped bar, a sunken indoor beer garden, cocktail sunroom, and large integrated TV screens. The 350-seater is nothing if not versatile.

Credit: Tim Bean.

With regular happy hours, a good selection of local and international wines and tap beers, and a menu boasting classic pub comfort food—think schnitzel, steaks and more—it’s a place to settle in.

R01/9 Bradley St, Phillip | fenwaypublichouse.com.au

Flash Eats

Credit: 5foot Photography.

Flash Eats is bringing life to Civic’s Bible Lane, pumping out fresh burgers, fried chicken, fries and drinks from a hole-in-the-wall operation.

The latest venture of the team behind Hopscotch and Young and Frisky, the Flash Eats menu covers all the burger basics—from a single beef patty with cheese and pickles to a complete vegan burger. And it’s wallet-friendly—around $10 for a single stack.

Credit: 5foot Photography.

But it’s not just good news for Canberra’s collective stomach. Flash Eats has transformed the previously grey and dingy city laneway with a riot of primary colours and graphic art.

And with late closing times seven days a week, the Flash Stack may well be the new Bin Hotdog (for those old enough to remember them).

Credit: 5foot Photography.

Bible Lane, Canberra City | flasheats.com.au

Rebel Rebel

Credit: Tim Bean.

Fans of Sean McConnell’s cuisine won’t be disappointed by the restaurateur’s first venture with wife Jenny Harders.

Expect a Modern Oz vibe, with a lean towards Europe—the menu serving up everything from a very English breakfast dish of blood pudding and fried eggs with pickles and house-made HP sauce, to an Italian-inspired Stracciatella, Tomato Vinaigrette, Bottarga.

The small dessert menu offers a twist on tradition.

Credit: Tim Bean.

The space itself is sophisticated and inviting—equal parts moody and airy, and big on texture. Dramatic high ceilings are lined with reclaimed timber salvaged from the demolition of Canberra housing project Bega Flats.

This is one rebellion people will flock to join.

Credit: Tim Bean.

Credit: Tim Bean.

21–23 Marcus Clarke Street, NewActon | rebelrebeldining.com.au

Rizla

Credit: Ashley St George.

A new Braddon bar dedicated to Riesling? Pour us a big one, thanks.

Casual eatery and bar Rizla (that’s hospo slang for riesling) is all about adding a splash of fun to your dinner or drink.

Credit: Ashley St George.

The seasonal menu is designed to work with the extensive wine list—think fresh seafood, vegetables and white meats, light tropical desserts and a banging cheese plate.

And while, as the name suggests, there’s a whole lot of Riesling going on, there are plenty of other offerings, including whites and reds by the glass—about half the list is from the Canberra district, with the rest consisting of top quality Aussies, some international curiosities and iconic Germans.

Corner of Eloura and Lonsdale Streets, Braddon | drinkrizla.com.au

Wildflour

Credit: Anisa Sabet.

Espresso Room founder Michael Rose has taken over Remy’s, the Fyshwick bakery that grew from the ashes of Autolyse, and given it a whole new identity.

Wildflour is all dark tiles, wood and blue velvet chairs with greenery creating a focal point on the ceiling. It’s a cosy space, exuding warmth and community through communal tables and a large and safety-gated children’s playground outside, alongside a generous al fresco terrace.

Credit: Anisa Sabet.

The seasonal menu is diverse, offering everything from colourful, fresh salads to gourmet sandwiches served up on Romain Remy’s to-die-for bread.

There’s also a cornucopia of pastry goodness, from chorizo sausage rolls to croissants, éclairs, cakes, donuts and more.

Stretchy pants are a must.

Credit: Anisa Sabet.

8 Townsville St Fyshwick | wildflour.com.au

Feature image: Anisa Sabet/Wildflour.

This article originally appeared in Magazine: Shine for Summer 2019/20, available for free while stocks last. Find out more about Magazine here.

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