Six places that will make you feel like you’re on holiday (when you’re not)
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Back at work but already dreaming of your next holiday? These local venues will help cure the travel bug, minus the hefty price tag or baggage.
Head to one of these Canberra faves to be whisked away to the likes of Far North Queensland, France or Spain without setting foot on a plane or renewing your passport.
Pollen @ National Botanic Gardens
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Feels like: Tropical North Queensland
There’s nothing like dining amongst a rainforest to make you feel as if you’ve escaped Canberra for a tropical destination. Nestled under the lush trees of The National Botanic Gardens, Pollen is an ideal spot to beat the heat with a refreshing iced coffee or fresh juice before heading into the misted rainforest gully for a wander. (Better yet, you don’t have to watch out for crocs unlike FNQ!)
Clunies Ross Street, Acton | pollencafe.com.au
Margot
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Feels like: South of France
Sitting by the water with a glass of wine or espresso in hand, it’s easy to feel as if you’re thousands of miles away on the French Riviera at Margot.
With its black and white Parisian chairs and euro-influenced menu, it’s the perfect spot for people watching or whiling away a lazy summer afternoon with a curated cheese board or selection of pastries.
West Kiosk, Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes | margot.bar
Saint Malo’s Gardino
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Feels like: Spain
Step into Saint Malo’s “Gardino” courtyard and stress levels will instantly drop to a trance-like state. Surrounded by lush plants and styled to perfection with terracotta-tiled tables, a grand fountain, swing seat and luxe bar cart, the space is perfect for indulging on the venue’s cocktails and tapas with custom Spanish-flare.
23 London Circuit, City | saintmalo.com.au
Cartel Taqueria
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Feels like: Playa del Carmen
If the summer heat is making you crave the Mexican Riviera, Cartel Taqueria could be the next best thing. Think frozen margs, loaded tacos and a festive interior which spills out into relaxed alfresco seating. Before you know it, you’re transported to the azure waters of the Riviera Maya faster than you can say Salud!
Ray Morton Park, 6 Trinculo Place, Queanbeyan East | carteltacos.au
Koto
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Feels like: Tokyo
With its luxe furnishings and killer menu, it’s not hard to see why newcomer Koto is already one of the most coveted restaurants in Canberra. Sit back and admire the traditional architecture, mood lighting and dramatic interiors while renowned Sushi Master Chef Shinya Nakano takes you on a culinary journey without ever leaving the building.
1 King George Terrace, Parkes| kotodining.com.au
Tiger Lane
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Feels like: South East Asia
Craving the hustle and bustle of a larger city? Look no further than Tiger Lane.
With its neon lights and vibrant spaces, this pan-Asian dining precinct is inspired by the hawker centres of Asia, with cuisines spanning from Japan, South Korea, Southern China, Northern China and South East Asia.
FG16 Canberra Centre, Bunda Street, Canberra Centre | tigerlane.com.au
Feature image: St Malo, via Facebook
