Gotta eat ’em all: 2022’s new places to eat
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It’s been a huge year for new eateries in Canberra. How do we know? 90+ have opened.
From the coolest new bars to cute cafés and rocking new restaurants, after an unprecedented two years, it’s incredible to see how Canberra’s hospitality industry has rallied.
To celebrate we’ve rounded up every new eatery that we’ve featured in our 2022 editions of ‘New Places To Eat’, sorted by region. And with plenty more (hopefully) to come, it’s probably time you invested in some more stretchy pants.
How many have you crossed off the list?
CITY
Blue Eyes. Credit: Adam McGrath @hcreations72
Wine Room (City)
Building on the success of the much-awarded Gather café, which takes out the front real estate onto Mort, this intimate 40-seater venue (including the private dining room and an outdoor area with 10-odd seats spilling out into the alley on Mort Street) is tucked away, but unmissable once you know where to look.
While the name suggests Wine Room is, well, a wine room, the menu screams destination dining ambition. Read more here.
24 Mort Street (Behind Gather Café) | wineroom.bar
Blue Eyes (City)
Inspired by the soulful songs of Frank Sinatra and the old Hollywood bars he would have frequented, Blue Eyes Bar & Lounge is open in to Garema Place to bring a touch of glamour, indulgence and opulence.
Think a refined menu, live music and cocktails that are perfect for starry eyed souls. Read more here.
Garema Place | @blueeyescbr
Banana Leaf (City)
Beloved Sri Lankan restaurant Banana Leaf has moved to new digs on Akuna Street in the city and all we can say is “Wow”.
The fitout is sleek and elegant with plenty of dark wood accented by bursts of colour and tributes to the owners’ home country.
2 Akuna Street, Canberra City | facebook.com/BananaLeafCanberra
Transit Bar (City)
Transit Bar‘s new location in Bailey’s Arcade (formerly Hogsbreath Café) sees the live music icon stretch its wings, taking advantage of the existing kitchen infrastructure to offer an extensive food menu.
Feeling thirsty? A nine-metre bar alongside the live performance space is ready and waiting for you to sample their craft beer menu or one of their cocktails on tap.
Read more here.
Lower ground floor, Bailey’s Arcade, 143 London Circuit, Civic | facebook.com/transitbar
Edo Tori (City)
Located in the spot where Momoda and Soju Girl once sat, Edo Tori has been appointed in dark colours with lots of banquet seating and feature walls of Japanese art.
While the food also looks artful, Owner Runze Liu is keen to point out that Edo Tori is a casual place, prices are surprisingly low and conversations with friends over chicken yakitori and an Asahi Superdry (one of the eight beers on tap) are to be encouraged.
But that’s not to say he has not gone to enormous effort to produce a menu which traverses Japan’s favourite snacks—charred edamame with house-made togarashi, softshell crab tempura and pan-fried pork gyoza for starters.
Read the full story here.
41 Northbourne Avenue, Civic | edotori.com.au
1919 Lanzhou Beef Noodle (City)
Can’t find this spot? Just look for the queues lining the outside of New South Wales chain restaurant 1919 Lanzhou Beef Noodle. Those seeking the taste of authentic hand-pulled noodles need look no further.
Bunda Street, Canberra City | @1919lanzhoubeefnoodle
Rice + Nori (City)
With a promise to “change the way you feel about traditional takeaway sushi”, this cute-as-a-button sushi shop on City Walk promises DIY sushi. We’re intrigued.
Shop 7 / 131 City Walk | @riceandnori_canberra
Zomsa Fusion (City)
A fusion of all of our favourite things (dumplings, Italian pizza, pasta, Bhutanese food, and even a Continental breakfast in the morning) Zomsa Fusion is a one-stop-delicious-shop.
Shop 19/21 E Row, Canberra City | zomsafusion.com
Delicia Açaí Bar (City)
Dreaming of summer days filled with beach trips, Açaí bowls, and smoothies? Delicia Açaí Bar is serving up everything from fruit-filled smoothie bowls to plant (and dairy) based shakes as well as savoury options – we’re sure we’ll Açaí you there soon.
Shop 8, 20 Genge Street, Canberra City | deliciaacaibar.com
OMI (City)
Those seeking the taste of rice dons and Black Truffle Wagyu need to look no further: OMI has landed at the Canberra Centre. OMI’s first venture outside Victoria, you can expect melt-in-the-mouth Japanese fusion flavours.
Shop EG08 Bunda Street | @omiaustralia
The Tuck Shop (City)
Bringing South African flair to Verity Lane, The Tuck Shop has officially launched. A street food style menu with a twist, The Tuck Shop is led by head chef Amy Ferreira (ex-Rebel Rebel), with a menu inspired by her Durban upbringing. Serving up a combination of savoury and sweet dishes, highlights include Vetkoek—fried bread with a ground beef curry filling served with chutney and Bunny Chow—Durban-style curry in a bread bowl.
And of course, you can’t go past Ferriera’s famous Melk Tert—a South African-style milk custard tart served with a cinnamon caramel.
Verity Lane Market, 50 Northbourne Avenue, Canberra City | @tuckshop_cbr
Chimmi (City)
If you love the spice of Argentinian, you better get excited—Belco foodie destination Chimmi has also opened in Verity Lane to dish up a street food style menu of spicy chorizo burgers, loaded fries and flavour-packed empanadas, all served with their namesake Chimmichurri sauce (a blend of herbs, garlic, chilli and olive oil). Yum.
Verity Lane Market, 50 Northbourne Avenue, Canberra City | chimmi.com.au
Saint Malo (City)
A Spanish-influenced feasting menu and a 70-plus option water list on top of the wine list, cocktail and low and non-alcoholic cocktail list. Meet Saint Malo. Now open, prepare to have your tastebuds transported to a sunny table in San Sebastian in seconds.
Read more here.
23 London Circuit, City | saintmalo.com.au
Negozio by Amelia (City)
Just like walking through Nonna’s pantry, Negozio by Amelia at Canberra Centre promises sensory overload. And as the she son of Pasticceria Amelia in Belconnen, Negozio will operate seven days as a café, store and bottega, providing fresh-made real panini, piadine (Italian street food—flat bread with two-three fillings), a range of breads and savoury pastries.
Read more here.
Canberra Centre Beauty Garden (behind Raku) | @negozio.by.amelia
Rasa Rosa (City)
Joining Verity Lane Market’s thriving food hall, RasaRosa is bringing an authentic taste of Indonesia to local foodies.
Expect a menu full of handmade spice pastes and sambals, with fresh vegetables, tofu and meats to tantalise the senses—and you can’t miss dessert. Think Lempang lempung: banana fritters served with chocolate sprinkles, grated cheese and condensed milk. We’ll take two.
50 Northbourne Ave, Canberra | @rasarosafood
Bureau (City)
Searching for a new café in the City? Meet Bureau, brought to life by the iconic Redbrick Coffee. Located in the ACT Government building at Constitution Place, it’s perfect for a quick caffeine pick-me-up.
220 London Cct, Canberra | constitutionplace.com.au
San Churro (City)
San Churro is officially open in the Sydney Building and it’s bringing us all the chocolatey goodness as well as some savoury treats.
Friday afternoon snack pack and churro run anyone?
Sydney Building, Shop 1/23-25 E Row | @sanchurrocanberracity
La Belle Miette (City)
Melbourne’s macaron specialist patisserie, La Belle Miette, has opened its very first ACT store at Canberra Centre and we’ll take one of everything.
From gin and tonic macarons to bonbons de chocolat, you can pick up a delightful sweet treat at their kiosk located on Level 1 near Aesop.
Canberra Centre, Level 1 | labellemiette.com.au
Highball (City)
Okay…so Highball isn’t technically new. But after months of being closed it’s now bigger, better and a little more boujee.
But lets get to the new menu. Think Canadian scallop ceviche, with mezcal compressed watermelon, pickled cucumber, avocado, and corn chips, or an ‘El Jefe’ Cubano of Mojo roasted pork shoulder, leg ham, mustard, pickles, and Swiss cheese on Cuban bread, while the cocktail list is as tropical and fresh as it ever was. Read more here.
Melbourne Building, 77 London Circuit, Civic |Open seven days a week, 4 pm until late | highballexpress.com.au
Sushi Sushi (City)
All aboard the sushi train! Full of all your favourites (as well as some delicious hot food to satisfy every craving), this will quickly become your new shop-and-snack-destination.
Level G, Shop EG09_10 (near Coles) Canberra Centre, Bunda St | Open Monday to Wednesday, 8 am – 6 pm, Thursday 8 am – 9 pm, Friday 8 am – 8 pm, Saturday 8 am – 6 pm and Sunday 8 am – 5:30 pm | sushisushi.com.au
TAKI (City)
Bringing a chic minimalist aesthetic and contemporary Japanese a la carte menu to Canberra Centre’s emerging Tiger Lane precinct, TAKI is now open.
And with a focus on Yakiniku cooked over charcoal, with local and imported Wagyu—all complemented by a contemporary Japanese a la carte menu which includes a Wagyu shabu shabu hotpot and a chicken and seafood hotpot—we’ll be there (again) with bells on.
FG16, 148 Bunda St, Canberra Centre | Open six days a week, 12 pm – 10 pm | tigerlane.com.au
Inari (City)
Bringing a touch of Japanese 1960s retrofuturism to the Canberra Centre’s emerging hawker-style food precinct Tiger Lane, Inari is an authentic Japanese restaurant that takes inspiration from a time when society transformed and lost constraints from tradition.
Inari’s menu deftly explores traditional Japanese dishes fused with Peruvian influence, centred around locally sourced seafood.
Canberra Centre, 148 Bunda St (Ground Level, between Bunda Street and Scotts Crossing) |Open for lunch Friday and Saturday from 12 pm–3 pm and dinner from Wednesday to Saturday from 5 pm–9 pm. From Saturday 21 January 2023, Inari will be open for lunch and dinner every day of the week | tigerlane.com.au
Zhangliang Malatang (City West)
A Sydney chain making its first mark on the ACT, Zhangliang Malatang is hotpot heaven, with oodles of noodles, masses of meat and a veritable feast of veggies waiting for you to create the hotpot of your dreams. Wintry goodness!
No Name Lane, City West | @zhangliang_malatang
Sandoochie (City West)
Sandoochie has found its permanent home in No Name Lane—and by golly, are we glad about it.
Sandwiches rightly stuffed to the very edges, on some Under Bakery sourdough goodness… what more could you ask for?
Read the full story here.
Shop 8, 40 Marcus Clarke Street, No Name Lane | @sandoochie
Koo Canberra (City West)
Not your mum’s bubble tea, Koo‘s colourful beverage menu was made for sunny days. We see you, milk tea obsessées—go forth and explore!
39 London Circuit, Canberra | @koo.cbr
Volstead Repeal (Braddon)
Be transported into a post-Prohibition, New York-style cocktail bar with walls lined with whisky bottles and deep green leather chesterfields beckoning for you to partake of a drink while soaking up the jazz and candlelight.
There’s a wine and beer list featuring an interesting mix of local and overseas labels, and if it’s whisky you’re after, well, there are more than 300 choices to mull over. Meanwhile, one end of the bar houses a small kitchen and pizza oven, cranking out some old-school pizzas and charcuterie platters to settle back with.
Read the full story here.
7/32 Mort Street Braddon | volstead.com.au
Centrar Café (Braddon)
Calling all caffiends—there’s a new café in Braddon! Located inside a shared-space in the Branx Building, they’re not only serving up coffee, but also freshly baked goods, a variety of alternative latte options and full traditional tea brewing experiences. See you there?
Shop 103/16 Lonsdale St, Braddon | @centrarbrd
Alcove (Braddon)
Imagine for a minute a bar with its own kitchen, a degustation of perfectly matched cocktails and canapés, and an establishment that fed you until 1 am. In Braddon. Praise be—this is not a dream.
The brainchild of restaurateur Ricky Liau and chef Kenny Tse, Alcove is a cocktail bar with a difference, melding food and drink in a unique way.
Read the full story here.
105/16 Lonsdale Street Braddon (take the car park entry to the right of the building and take another right) | @alcove.act
Let’s Chaat (Braddon)
There’s a newbie on Lonsdale Street! Let’s Chaat is providing the vegetarian Indian goods for your perusal and it’s exactly what we need for the colder months…
132/24 Lonsdale Street, Braddon | @letschaatfood
Tea Connoisseur (Braddon)
A tea-riffic addition for tea lovers, meet Tea Connoisseur: a boutique lounge and restaurant with a culinary focus on the fantastic combination of fine dining and tea.
That’s right—think a menu full of delicious delicacies like wagyu beef with aged black tea, Oolong tea salad (Crispy Tie Guanyin oolong tea, crispy rice pop, baby cos lettuce, and cucumber, served with sesame dressing), and Pu’erh tea pork belly (braised pork belly served with Vintage 2004 Shu Pu’er tea). And if that’s not enough, they even host tea-themed events for a little extra spice in your life.
Founders Lane, G07/2 Batman Street, Braddon | @teaconnoisseurcanberra
Ciao Braddon Café (Braddon)
Promising breakfast, lunch, pizza, coffee and cake, Ciao Braddon sounds like the city café of our dreams. Honestly, what more do you need?
12/33 Mort Street, Braddon | @ciao_braddon
Tikka Stand (Braddon)
Tikka Stand is making the move, to stop being on the move. Setting up in a permanent spot in Braddon you will now be able to find their mouth-watering Indian cuisine without having to worry about where you’re going to have to drive to find it.
Find out more about Tikka Stands move here.
15–17 Lonsdale Street, Braddon | @tikkastand
INNER NORTH
Moo & Chick. Photography: Ash St George of Pew Pew Studio
Yori Fusion Bento (Acton)
Will Canberrans ever tire of Japanese cuisine? The answer is no, and Yori Fusion Bento‘s arrival in ANU’s Kambri precinct has been met with open arms—and open wallets.
155-12, Kambri 155, University Ave, ANU | @yorifusionbento
E.D. HUT (Acton)
Coffee, baked goods and laser cut fabrication design? Colour us impressed.
With a bakery cabinet full of Hokkaido cheese tart, Basque cheesecake, light Japanese cheesecake and lava soy cake as well as classic café offerings (hello bacon and egg rolls) those seeking an extremely aesthetically pleasing brunch option need to look no further.
3/28 University Ave, Acton | @e.d_hut
MAJI (Campbell)
MAJI Japanese Cuisine is a culmination of pure dedication to the craftsmanship of Japanese cuisine. In appetisers alone, the menu features delicious options like Kani Korokke (creamy crab croquettes with mayonnaise), Nama Kaki sashimi (fresh oysters with wakame and yuzu dressing), salmon cream cheese sushi rolls (with cucumber, egg, and avocado), Chicken Katsu and more.
For a more filling meal, you can choose from mains like Miso Itame Buta (stir-fried sliced pork belly with misco sauce), Hamaguri Sake-Ni (clams cooked with sake) and the crispy deep-fried ramen.
Read the full story here.
Shop G09, 21 Provan Street, Campbell | @majijapanese
The Bloom (Campbell)
Offering all the café classics, The Bloom in Campbell is the perfect place to stop for a little pick-me-up.
Go for a coffee and pick up a pastry…you won’t regret it.
Shop 1B 2 Blamey place, Campbell | facebook.com/thebloomcampbell
Hakko Bakery (Dickson)
Bread, coffee, and cake…what more could you need? This new bakery café is bringing all the delicious Asian baked goods to the streets of Dickson.
8/7 Cape Street, Dickson
Moo & Chick (Dickson)
Dickson has oodles of great eateries but locals know it’s a little thin on the ground when it comes to cafes. Luckily, Moo and Chick is changing that, with coffee, breakfast and lunch options in a cute courtyard location.
1/53-57 Woolley Street, Dickson | @mooandchick
No9 Palace (Dickson)
Another week, another delicious delicacy to try on Dickson’s Woolley Street. This time it’s No9 Palace‘s “Art Chinese Fusion Cuisine” which, according to Instagram, takes the form of sculptural desserts and too-pretty-to-eat goldfish dumplings. We’ll take four.
Woolley Street, Dickson | @no9palace
Mafia Buns (Dickson)
Will we ever tire of burgers and wings? The answer is no—and therefore we expect Mafia Buns to live up to its promise of deliciousness.
18 Challis Street, Dickson | @mafia.buns
Gelato & Coffee Bar (Dickson)
It’s not a New Places to Eat list without a Dickson addition—and this one is for all the sweet tooths out there. Popping up on Challis Street, Gelato & Coffee Bar is serving (you guessed it) gelato, coffee and as well as pastries.
And with gelato flavour choices that include coffee, crème caramel and boysenberry cheesecake, it’s worth a visit for dessert (or just in general).
21 Challis Street, Dickson
Melted Toasted Sandwich Emporium (O’Connor)
Toastie lovers rejoice, Melted Toasted Sandwich Emporium has opened a permanent food van at the Croatian Club in O’Connor! Open Friday and Saturday evenings you can expect some of their classic creations as well as shoestring fries, soup and coffee. Who needs a homemade cheese toastie?
68 McCaughey Street, Turner | meltedtoasties.com
OUTER NORTH
Southern Seoul Fried Chicken and Beer. Image supplied.
Capital Press Gallery (Belconnen)
The brainchild of Capital Food Group (which boasts such names as Pasticceria Amelia at Belconnen Markets and Emporium Espresso at DOS Emporium in Fyshwick), you’ll find Capital Press Gallery at the Australia Bureau of Statistics, serving everything from stacked paninis to the perfect latte to Belconnen’s hungry hoardes.
Australian Bureau of Statistics | @capitalpressgallery
AMELIA NEXT DOOR (Belconnen)
Pasticceria and café by day, pasta and wine bar by night? Say no more!
Brought to you by the team behind the beloved Pasticceria Amelia and nestled in the Belconnen Fresh Food Markets, AMELIA has got you covered for whatever shall take your fancy.
Belconnen Fresh Food Markets | @pasticceria_amelia
Hachikō (Belconnen)
In case you missed it, you need to say hello to Hachikō in Belconnen. Featuring a combination of a diverse menu filled with delectable Japanese flavors (including burgers, linguine pasta, and ice cream, all served in a lakeside restaurant), it’s the best of Western and Japanese cuisine.
8/114 Emu Bank, Belconnen | facebook.com/HachikoBelconnen
The Poet (Belconnen)
Meet The Poet, a café, tandoor and bar that’s bringing our Indian cuisine dreams to life. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, go for a morning coffee and stay for their butter chicken samosas.
41 Chandler Street, Belconnen | facebook.com/thepoet.restaurant
Society Coffee Co (Belconnen)
It’s hard to keep up with everything opening up in Canberra, but Belconnen coffee lovers have another reason to celebrate with another café now open in Grazier Lane! Open from 7 am – 3 pm every day satisfy your sweet tooth with a slice of cake and your favourite caffeinated beverage.
Grazier Lane, Belconnen | @society.coffee.co
Luna Cheese Co (Belconnen)
Craving a black sugar cinnamon croffle? What about a chicken cashew taco? I bet you are now. Luna Cheese Co is a new café/restaurant in Belco and it’s making all of our foodie dreams come true. But the best part is it’s pet friendly! Doggie brunch date anyone?
5/114 Emu Bank, Belconnen | @luna_cheese_co
SpudBAR (Belconnen)
Oven-baked potato, free-range chicken, mild chilli bean, wild rocket, carrot and corn with a sriracha mayo…yum. This Mexican chicken option is one of the goodies coming to Belconnen with the opening of SpudBAR—a new restaurant that promises mouth-watering loaded potatoes packed with plenty of flavour.
And with every menu option 100% gluten-free and low sugar, (and a wide variety of dairy-free, vegan and high protein options also available), we think it’s a spud-tacular new addition to Westfield.
Shop 195, 18 Benjamin Way, Belconnen | spudbar.com.au
JoA Korean BBQ (Bruce)
Korean BBQ is having a serious moment in Canberra—and now Belconnenites can get a (wagyu) slice of the action at JoA Korean BBQ on Thynne Street in Bruce.
49/11 Thynne Street, Bruce | @joakoreanbbq
House of Desserts (Dunlop)
We heard about this dessert mecca via Instagram and all we can say is “wow”. We’re talking dessert waffles, crepes, poffertjes and more, locked and loaded and smothered in Nutella.
What more do you need when facing down a Canberra winter?
32 Polilight Street, Dunlop | houseofdesserts.com.au | @houseofdessertscbr
Sweet Bones (Scullin)
Scullin has welcomed a delicious (and vegan!) new resident with Braddon darling Sweet Bones putting down roots at the local shops. Find all your favourites (cinnamon buns!).
Scullin Place, Scullin | sweetbonescompany.com
Two Before Ten (Gungahlin)
As their eighth location in Canberra, you know that the food and coffee at Two Before Ten Gungahlin won’t disappoint.
Serving their iconic locally roasted coffee paired with easy lunch options for everyone, pop into the cosy café for brunch or a (long) coffee date.
35 Hinder Street, Gungahlin | Open Monday to Friday, 8 am – 3 pm | twobeforeten.com.au
Yiayia’s Bakery (Gungahlin)
Marketplace Gungahlin’s newest resident has family and culture at its heart. It likely comes as no surprise to those who know the translation (yiayia = grandmother) but Yiayia’s Bakery is all about baking long-held recipes that showcase the best (and most delicious!) of Greek culture.
46/50 Hibberson Street, Gungahlin | @yiayias_bakery_act
Donut Bros (Gungahlin)
You do-nut want to miss out on this. They’re pillowy-soft and fluffy donuts that are covered with cinnamon and your choice of a sticky and sweet filling—and the best part is they’re gluten, dairy, soy, and nut-free. Canberrans with sensitive stomachs can rejoice as Donut Bros make a permanent home in Gungahlin.
Read more here—it’s sure to be a-glaze-ing.
Marketplace Gungahlin, outside Big W | donutbros.com.au
Zhangliang Malatang (Gungahlin)
Nothing is better than a pick and mix express hotpot on a cold day—and now Gungahlin is home to Zhangliang Malatang’s newest location. Choose from oodles of noodles, masses of meat and a veritable feast of veggies to DIY your own bowl!
Shop H52, Market Place Gungahlin, 33 Hibberson St, Gungahlin | @zhangliang_gungahlin
Ms Yuki Bakery (Gungahlin)
Sweetening your life and curing your cake cravings, Ms Yuki Bakery has is the place to go for a treat.
Think: profiteroles, macarons, freshly made lemon ice tea and an array of Asian desserts that pair perfectly with a cup of coffee.
46/50 Hibberson St, Gungahlin | @ms.yukibakery_gungahlin
Nene Chicken (Gungahlin)
Say it with me: Korean. Fried. Chicken.
Now open in Gungahlin, cult South Korean fried chicken chain Nene Chicken is bringing us all the goodies: wingettes, drumettes, burgers, and wraps all made with their secret recipe sauces (as well as delicious dessert options). Meaning “Yes! Yes!” in Korean, you’ll be saying NeNe in no time.
46 Hibberson St, Gungahlin | @nenechickenaus
Ritzy Franklin (Franklin)
From the cheeky name to the loaded sundaes, what’s not to love about Ritzy Franklin. Did someone say post-work milkshakes?
127/3 Clare Burton Crescent, Franklin | @ritzy.franklin
Adore Tea Boutique (Mitchell)
Adore Tea has a new location and we’re brewing (sorry) with excitement! Now offering their staggering collection of over 200 teas in Mitchell, pop in to enjoy a cuppa with a delicious sweet treat. Scones with French Earl Grey tea-infused strawberry jam anyone?
2/2 Dacre Street, Mitchell | adoretea.com.au
Southern Seoul Fried Chicken and Beer (Casey)
Kimchi chicken fried rice anyone? Combining the deep sizzling flavours of Southern America with the spicy flavours of Korean cuisine, Southern Seoul Fried Chicken and Beer is now open in Casey. Run, don’t walk.
Tenancy 13, 15 Kingsland Parade, Casey | @southernseoulchicken
Sourdog Provisions (Nicholls)
The friendly folk from the Project Enoki Verity Lane Market pop-up have taken the leap in opening Sourdog Provisions—your new fave place to experience a premium deli experience in Nicholls. Pop in to grab goodies on the go or sit and enjoy their dine-in options.
You can read more here.
28/64 Kelleway Avenue, Nicholls | @sourdogprovisions
Pulp Book Café (Gold Creek)
Book lovers, your dreams have been answered! Gold Creek’s latest edition Pulp Book Café is the perfect place to wait out this winter. Featuring an all-day breakfast menu, fabulous lunch options, a fire, and the perfect novel to accompany your brew of choice.
You can read more about Pulp here.
6/18 O’Hanlon Pl, Nicholls | @pulpbookcafe
Burger Villains (Page)
Looking for an occasional villainous takeaway treat on the northside? Burger Villains is bringing their delicious, devilish, and downright affordable burgers to Belconnen. Offering gourmet burgers at affordable prices, grab your stretchy pants and wallet— you’ll need them.
1-9 Page Place, Page | burgervillains.com
INNER SOUTH
Happy Ending Café. Credit: Pew Pew Studio
Happy Ending Café (Fyshwick)
Located where one of Fyshwick’s iconic night-time destinations once stood, Happy Ending café and sandwich bar has officially opened its doors to bring locals the perfect lunch-time quickie.
We mean that literally. Serving coffee from a local roaster and a weekly menu of rotating sandwiches, sweets, pastries, and savoury bites, the menu is designed to be ideal for lunch in a hurry. It’s another reason to get excited in Fyshwick!
Read more here.
106-108 Gladstone Street, Fyshwick | @h4ppy.end1ng
Canteen (Fyshwick)
“It’s basically the lushest ramen shop you’ll ever see,” says Canteen co-owner and acclaimed Canberra chef, John Leverink.
Serving up “a fine dining approach to Japanese street food”, Canteen is located in Fyshwick’s hip Dairy Road precinct, where Red Brick coffee, sake and local wines will accompany Ramen Daddy’s full menu of Japanese classics and street food.
Expect many variations of their famed ramen, as well as a spin on much-loved Japanese and Taiwanese classics – try the Chicken Katsu Sando, followed by the plant-based Dan Dan Noodles and the classic Tori Paitan Ramen.
Building 3 Dairy Road Precinct, Fyshwick | eatcanteen.com.au
Fricken Fried Chicken (Fyshwick)
Name a better combination than fried chicken and beer? Fricken Fried Chicken is now serving boxes, burgers, wings, salads and kids meals (all with gluten free fricken options) at Capital Brewing Co in Fyshwick.
Weekend? Sorted.
Building 3/1 Dairy Rd, Fyshwick | Open Thursday to Sunday, 11:30 am – 9 pm | fricken.au
EQ Bakehouse (Fyshwick)
Get ready to shop and snack until you pop—EQ Bakehouse is now open in the Canberra Outlet Centre.
And with locally blended coffee and a range of classic and artisan delights on the menu—hello frangipane pear tarts, loaded salad rolls and homemade cannoli—a shopping trip (or brunch date) has never sounded so good. Read more here.
Canberra Outlet Centre, Fyshwick | Open seven days a week, 9 am – 4 pm | facebook.com/eqcafe
Colosseum Italian Street Food (Fyshwick)
Serving authentic Italian food that you’d find on the streets of Rome, Colosseum Italian Street Food has expanded to open a new café in Fyshwick—and we’re beyond excited.
Head along for a delicious selection of pastries, pizza, pasta and coffee (AKA the best way to spend a weekend).
36 Mildura St, Fyshwick | facebook.com/Colosseum-Italian-Street-Food-Catering
Caspian Cuisine (Kingston)
Turkish-Azerjaibani fusion has come to Kingston with Caspian Cuisine‘s opening on Giles Street.
Helmed by Chef Hajar Gala, who honed her skills at nearby Turkish Delight, Caspian Cuisine reflects Hajar’s blended heritage and the taste of life by the shores of the Caspian Sea.
75/71 Giles Street, Kingston | caspiancuisines.com.au
Champi (Kingston)
The name “Champi” is an homage to a small village along Xadone river in Champasak Province, Southwestern Laos, which is where Chef Aiden Xindavong’s family live. Champi is all about the taste of home—but this is a restaurant where the food speaks for itself.
Chu Chee Curry of Crispy Soft-Shell Crab with coconut cream and lime leaves, Grilled Sticky Caramelised Pork Belly with a pickled Thai salad and the Kingfish Ceviche with lime, chill, fresh dill, crispy onions and chili dressing are all stand outs.
Read the full story here.
17 Kennedy Street, Kingston | champi.com.au
Waxtop Wines (Kingston)
With its sleek website and a Millennial-friendly menu (think wine collections like ‘Smashable’ and ‘Big Rig’) delivery service Waxtop Wines quickly carved a name for itself in Canberra’s at-home drinking scene, elevating booze delivery from ‘a wine bar’s poor cousin’ to ‘someone who knows what they’re talking about chose this for me’.
But as Canberra got back to the face-to-face lifestyle, so did Waxtop. Open Wednesday to Sunday, Waxtop’s new bottleshop in Kingston (while not strictly a ‘new place to eat’) is your destination to purchase ‘a unique variety of natural wines, ranging from funky lo-fi’s, local classics, and international big dogs’, promising a wine experience ‘without the pretentiousness’.
Read the full story here.
28a Jardine Street, Kingston | waxtop.wine
11e Cave (Kingston)
When Louis Couttoupes opened his 11th arrondissement-inspired restaurant in Kingston, Onzieme, he had more up his sleeve. And now, hidden behind a cherry red door, a warm and cosy wine bar, awaits with a serious wine and snack menu. From Clyde River oysters, Under Bakery sourdough, duck liver pâté, and some of Onzieme’s now-famous potato galette, pop in now to discover Canberra’s newest hidden Bar À Vin.
Corner Kennedy and Eyre St, the little red door, Kingston | onzieme.com
Vanilla Pod Pizza and Pasta Bar (Kingston)
All day breakfast, hand-stretched pizza, pasta and Italian desserts, what’s not to love at Vanilla Pod Pizza and Pasta Bar? Now open in Kingston, it’d be rude not to try it morning, noon and night.
35 Kennedy St, Kingston | vanillapodact.com.au
Kodiak Bar (Kingston)
Cocktails with a twist, a comfort cuisine menu, and bartenders in ties: Kodiak Bar has officially opened its doors.
Offering an extensive menu that centres around shared plates and classic offerings (think oysters with rum and pineapple, beetroot tartare served with pickled apple, whipped goats cheese and smoked almonds, and a North American style cheeseburger), you can see why Kodiak (and its offerings) is summed up by the pair as “playful and relaxed”.
Read more here.
23 Kennedy Street, Kingston | kodiakbar.com.au
Gravy ‘N’ More (Kingston)
If we were to describe this pizzeria and Indian cuisine bistro in one word it would be ‘interesting’. If we could use four it would be ‘interesting and bloody delicious’.
Selling pizzas in traditional Indian flavours (including Indian tandoori chicken, chicken tikka masala, and paneer tikka masala) as well as more traditional Indian dishes, each bite promises to be packed full of flavour. Butter chicken pizza anyone?
75/71 Giles St Kingston| gravynmore.com.au
Parbery Lane (Kingston)
Kingsborough’s neighbourhood brewery and espresso bar has just unveiled its expansion into ‘pizza pub’ Parbery Lane. We are excited for the woodfired pies to complement their fabulous neighbourhood vibe!
Kingsborough, Kingston Foreshore | @parberylane
Jojuro Taco Bar (Griffith)
Are these the best tacos in Canberra? You’ll have to try it to find out.
Providing their take on classic Mexican street food (think deep fried beef birria tacos, torta de cochinita pibil, and even Mexican sandwich covered in a guajillo chilli salsa and filled with potatoes, chorizo, queso and crema), keep an eye on this snack van’s social media to see when they’ll be popping up next.
And trust us when we say ‘run, don’t walk’ because they almost always sell out.
3 Mildura St, Griffith | facebook.com/jojurotacobar
Walter Café (Parkes)
Walks around the lake have never looked this good with the introduction of Walter Café, named after Walter Burley Griffin this mid-century modelled café will be all the inspiration you need to finally do the bridge-to-bridge walk.
With stunning views of Lake Burley Griffin, settle in with your drink of choice, soak in the sunshine (when it’s here that is) and relax with your choice of breakfast or lunch options.
Read up on the Walter Café here.
Barrine Drive, Regatta Point, Commonwealth Park, Parkes | @waltercafe.au
The Marion (Parkes)
High Tea whilst soaking up the serenity of Lake Burley Griffin? Yes please. Officially opening bookings for their High Tea experience, The Marion will be (finally) opening their restaurant doors opening on Tuesday 6 September.
And with the chance to indulge in freshly baked scones with clotted cream and preserves followed by finely cut sandwiches, savoury pastries and delectable petit cakes, all we can say is see you there?
Barrine Drive, Regatta Point, Commonwealth Park, Parkes | themarion.com.au
Snapper and Co (Yarralumla)
Canberra’s best fish and chips just got better. While we know it’s not technically ‘new’, when Canberra’s much-loved lakeside destination Snapper & Co. closed in May for redevelopment, it promised to return bigger and better in spring. Well, it’s now open, and we can confirm it has ticked all the boxes.
Think new additions like the Container Bar, a gelato bar, loads of seating, a casual dining menu and unrivalled views. As well as Snapper & Co’s famed fresh fish and chips, an expanded menu also boasts burgers, salads, tasting platters and more.
Want to know the best part? On weekends, Snapper & Co. will also be offering a breakfast service. Read more here.
Mariner Place, Yarralumla | snapperandco.com.au
Leyla (Barton)
With stunning views, scrumptious small bites and sensational drinks Leyla is bringing it all to the table. Watch the sunset from this rooftop bar over sweeping skyline views of the leafy city, Lake Burley Griffin and beyond whilst sipping on a crafted signature cocktail. Your Friday plans just got sorted.
Learn more about Canberra’s latest rooftop bar here.
1 Burbury Close, Barton | @leylabar_
Deakin and Me (Deakin)
Looking for a new café spot perfect for an insta-worthy photo shoot over brunch? Say hello to Deakin and Me. Featuring a bright and airy dining space and grown-on-the-site herbs, their Instagram is definitely shaping it up to be a new go-to for all your caffeine and foodie needs.
7 Geils Court, Deakin | @deakinandme
Du Sel (Narrabundah)
Should you find yourself walking Narrabundah’s quaint Iluka street, your nose might just be tempted to follow the rich odours of butter, cream and sugar-laced warm pastry perfuming the air.
The destination? Narrabundah’s latest foodie slice of heaven, Du Sel. Read more here.
Shop 1/2 Iluka St, Narrabundah | Open Tuesday to Sunday | @duselcanberra
Fox and Bow (Red Hill)
Inner southians can rejoice! Farrer neighbourhood favourite Fox & Bow has spread its wings to Red Hill. Taking over the space formerly occupied by Red Hill Tea House, anything that means more places to get its excellent Spanish Eggs is a good thing.
Duyfken Place, Red Hill | foxandbow.com.au
OUTER SOUTH
L’epi Bakery. Credit: Ben Calvert
Two Before Ten (Majura)
They’ve caffeinated us all over Canberra, but now those working in (or visiting—hello Costco trip) Majura can treat themselves to a coffee and delicious food at Two Before Ten’s newest location.
Open Monday to Friday, expect everything that’s made their other locations great (local produce, perfect barista made coffee and sweet treats) in their largest café to date.
5 Lancaster Place, Majura | twobeforeten.com.au
Noodles XO (Canberra Airport)
Calling all noodle lovers who also like to travel: Noodles XO is now open at the Canberra Airport opposite Gate 7.
Promising fast service (hello tasty meals in under three minutes) enjoy everything from dumplings to spring rolls, sushi, edamame and—obviously—noodles.
Canberra Airport, Terminal 2 | canberraairport.com.au
Classic Indian Restaurant (Weston Creek)
Dairy free, gluten free and vegan friendly, this new Indian restaurant in Weston Creek has it all. And with delicious menu options like tandoori naan, chilli paneer and garlic butter prawns, there’s sure to be something that everyone can enjoy.
Shop No.11B, Coleman Court, Brierly Street, Weston Creek | facebook.com
Dada (Woden)
Woden continues its march into serious foodie territory with the addition of Dada—and it packs a real punch. Traversing a broad range of Asian cuisines—from Korea, to Japan, China, Vietnam, Thailand and further afield—the menu is extremely accessible for specific dietary requirements…and looks darn delicious.
Read the full story here.
G4, 12 Furzer Street, Phillip | @dada_canberra
SuperBao Expresso (Woden)
SuperBao has brought their signature bao southside with a new pop-up restaurant in Westfield Woden’s Bradley Street eat street. Expect their signature bao-gers and plenty of takeaway options. Noms.
Read more here.
Bradley Street, Westfield Woden | @superbao.woden
Eightysix South (Woden)
HerCanberra’s Emma Macdonald revealed what could be the most hotly anticipated new restaurant of 2022—eightysix south.
We can faithfully report that it is same-same, but different, to its iconic Braddon big brother, eightysix north.
Located in Woden, next to the Alby, you’ll recognise immediately its trademark dark and industrial fit-out courtesy of the design team at Capezio Copeland.
5 Furzer Street Woden | eightysix.com.au
Hanok (Woden)
Hanok‘s second Canberra restaurant has landed at Westfield Woden, so you can feast on Korean BBQ northside and southside.
Did someone say Korean fried chicken…?
Westfield Woden, Bradley Street, Phillip | @hanokact
Ramen O (Woden)
Ramen Wow! Ramen Oh! And Ramen Oh My God! Ramen O has arrived in Woden, and you can bet the same queues that wrapped around the Belconnen store are going to do the same thing down in Woden.
The perfect meal to conquer the winter shivers, go and grab a bowl of hearty ramen with vegetarian options up for grabs it’s the perfect way to warm up this winter.
Read more about this Canberran favourite here.
35 Furzer Street, Woden | @ramen.o.japanese
Edo Canteen (Woden)
Craving Japanese? Edo Canteen is now open in Woden and it promises modern Japanese fusion that’s perfect for quick lunch and snack.
Choose your own topping on poke bowls along with Japanese curry dons, sushi and more. See you there?
Shop 097 Keltie Street, Westfield Woden (located near Boost Juice) | Open Monday to Thursday, 9 am – 5:30 pm, Friday 9 am – 9 pm, Saturday 9 am – 5 pm and Sunday 10 am – 4 pm | edo-canteen.square.site
Short Eats (Phillip)
A Sri Lankan take on a traditional Australian Café, Short Eats Phillip has officially moved into its brick-and-mortar location and we couldn’t be more stoked! (You should be too, btw).
You can read more about their journey here.
Furzer Street, Phillip | @shorteatscaf
Two Blind Mice (Curtin)
Want casual dining but not so casual food? Two Blind Mice in Curtin offers all your pub classics—with a twist. This elegant eatery has quickly become a neighbourhood favourite, thanks to its menu of crowd-pleasers executed to perfection.
Read more here.
6/44 Curtin Place, Curtin | twoblindmicecurtin.com.au
Grillin’ (Isaacs)
From the classics to the boujee burger there is something for everyone at one of Canberra’s latest burger joints Grillin’. Spicy Loaded Chicken Fries are the perfect way to warm up from this cold weather and if there is one thing Canberra can deliver without fail it’s a delicious burger.
Unit 5, 6 Farr Place, Isaacs | @grillin_au
Maple and Pine (Issacs)
Craving a coffee? Maple and Pine in Isaacs is bringing specialty coffee to the suburbs. Add in an all-day menu that includes French toast with caramelised banana, fresh berries, and beef bacon rashers as well as smoked salmon benedict and you have your newest Sunday brunch location sorted.
Shop 3/6 Farr Pl, Isaacs | @mapleandpinecafe
Rye Café (Tuggeranong)
Lonsdale Street’s OG Scandinavian brunch spot, Rye, has opened new digs at South.Point Tuggeranong—further proof that Canberra’s southern reaches are becoming a new foodie hotspot. You heard it here first, folks.
South.Point Tuggeranong | @ryesouthpoint
Burrito Bar (Tuggeranong)
Eddie Murphy eat your heart out, America has come to Tuggeranong! Find it hard to pick a place for dinner where everyone gets what they want? Tuggeranong got a two-for-one deal with Burrito Bar. Ribs and burgers one side of the menu, Mexican the other. Keep an eye out for Rugby legend and owner Terry Campese too, and grab a green machine cocktail if you’re game.
G15b South Point Shopping Centre, Anketell & Reed Streets, Tuggeranong | burritobar.com.au
Burger Villains (Tuggeranong)
First they took over Phillip and Page, but now Burger Villain’s has set their sights on Tuggeranong (and world domination).
10/341 Reed Street, South Tuggeranong | burgervillains.com
Glasshouse Café (Tuggeranong)
Get excited Southsiders! Tuggeranong has a new café. And with plenty of menu choices (as you can see), it’s the perfect excuse to grab brunch and a coffee before starting your day.
South.Point Shopping Centre, Tuggeranong | Open Saturday to Thursday 8 am- 4 pm and Friday 8 am – 9 pm | glasshousecafe.com.au
Canberra Bar & Grill (Tuggeranong)
Looking for a new breakfast spot or craving a casual dinner? Serving classic breakfast options as well as gourmet pizza, chargrill steaks, chicken schnitzel, beers, cocktails and more, Canberra Bar and Grill is the place to go.
1 Cynthea Teague Crescent, Greenway | Open Monday to Sunday, 7 am until late | facebook.com
Café Beetroot (Greenway)
Brand spanking new, Café Beetroot is freshly open and ready to stun you with all their faves in the deep south. Shout out to the south-siders—this one is for you!
311 Anketell Street, Greenway | @cafebeetroot_cbr
Blossoming Lotus Thai Vegetarian (Greenway)
Coming to Canberra by way of Newtown, Blossoming Lotus is a 100% plant-based restaurant serving up delicious Thai dishes. With Chu Chee eggplants, Pad Thai and spicy fried rice on the menu you can expect flavourful food without the fuss.
5/146 Reed Street North, Greenway
Soul Cartel (Wanniassa)
Remember the New Orleans-inspired burger joint that brought Watson damn delicious soul food? Well, we have some good news for southsiders—you can now find their Cajun and creole flavours in Wanniassa. Hello Cult Classic burger, bye-bye self-control.
38 Gartside Street, Wanniassa | facebook.com/SoulCartelCBR
Little Luxton (Gordon)
On a mission to leverage Canberra’s coffee culture to connect community resource and community needs, Little Luxton donates one dollar from every coffee sold to support the excellent work of Gordon Community Centre.
Not only will you feel good about helping to make a positive difference in our neighbourhood, but your stomach will thank you for picking up that extra latte (and sour cherry danish). Read more here.
Gordon Community Centre, 110 Lewis Luxton Avenue, Gordon | littleluxton.com
The Tapas Cantina (Chisholm)
They brought Chisholm locals amazing coffee and melt-in-mouth hot pies, but now the Public Place is serving tapas, tacos, margaritas and cervezas every Friday and Saturday night.
Think goodies like a pineapple and coconut margarita with house made empanadas and avocado sauce or patatas bravas. Yum.
42 Halley St, Chisholm | facebook.com/publicchisholm
L’épi Artisan Bakery (Chisholm)
It’s time for Chisholm to say ‘bonjour’ to the smell of fresh bread! Now open at the shops, L’épi Artisan Bakery has fired up the oven—serving French influenced baked goods—and turned on the coffee machine.
Bon appetit!
42 Halley St, Chisholm | Open Wednesday to Sunday, 7 am – 5:30 pm | @lepibakery
Café Blanco (Kambah)
Stepping into a small neighbourhood café in Kambah, the last thing you would expect is to be transported to Latin America. But as Café Blanco brings a taste of Latin culture and cuisine to the area, that’s exactly what southsiders will experience.
Drawing inspiration from ingredients all infused with Latin culture and love, the idea behind the menu was to create a fresh take on café favourites, like French toast with dulce de leche and hazelnuts to a chorizo and egg roll with provolone and salsa. And that’s not all. Read more here.
Shop 1/3 Carleton St, Kambah | @cafe___blanco
OUT OF TOWN
Sugarplum Fairy Cakes. Image supplied.
Cartel Taqueria (Queanbeyan)
Give us all the frozen margaritas and tacos, Cartel Taqueria has arrived in Queanbeyan!
Get ready to be transported to the sunny paradise of Mexico with classic lime and chilli mango margaritas and Mexican cheese, caramelised pineapple and chilli salsa nestled in a crispy flour tortilla shell. Read more here.
Ray Morton Park, 6 Trinculo Pl, Queanbeyan East | Open 6 pm until late (walk-ins only—bookings in the new year) | @cartel.tacos
Sugarplum Fairy Cakes (Hall)
The prettiest cake shop you ever did see might not be what you expect to find in semi-rural Hall, but Sugar Plum Fairy Cakes‘ new shopfront is well worth a short drive.
While founder Courtney has been creating dreamy cakes for years, this is her first shop and no detail has been forgotten. Pop in for cupcakes, cookies, brownies and other goodies with a side of ONA coffee.
2/8 Victoria Street, Hall | @sugarplumfairy_cakes
Little Sutton Bakehouse (Sutton)
Nourishing our souls with fresh-made pastries, drool-worthy pies, rustic sourdough, tasty toasties, and great coffee, Little Sutton Bakehouse is the mini-road trip destination you didn’t know you needed. Dine-in or takeaway—but make sure to leave some room because you’ll definitely be going back for more.
1 Victoria Street, Sutton | @littlesuttonbakehouse
Peachee Food (Various locations)
This food truck offers simple, feel good food—including tacos, burgers, fried chicken and cronuts. Popping up all around Canberra, keep an eye on their social media page to see where you can try one of their delicious offerings. Fried snapper, charred jalapeno mayo and salsa fresca tacos anyone?
Open Thursday to Sunday | @peacheefood
Feature image of Wine Room. Credit: Pew Pew Studio
