Some big-name closures, a week of free coffee in Gungahlin, Paloma’s launches loaded Mexican nacho bags and more Foodie News
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There have been some big changes in Canberra’s food scene.
While we’re saying goodbye to some beloved spots, there are also been plenty of exciting openings and events to keep your taste buds busy. From Brazil’s best street food hitting the markets to Saturday morning pastries finally becoming a thing at Flute, here’s the Foodie News you want to know.
Bada Bing closes its doors (but keep your eyes peeled for what’s next)
Italian dining destination Bada Bing has announced that it will be closing its doors, following disruptions and difficulties with trade during the light rail works. But don’t worry – this isn’t the end of the story. Taking a step to reimagine what the space can be, they’re already working on something new that they say is more in tune with where the city is heading. When we know more, we’ll tell you!
You can now taste the true flavour of Brazil at Canberra markets
Is this the best Pastel outside of Brazil? You’ll have to try Mr B Pastel to find out. Popping up at Canberra’s markets (catch them at the Old Bus Depot Markets on Sundays), you can sink your teeth into Brazil’s most popular street food – a crispy, golden, fried pastry that’s packed with mouthwatering fillings. Make sure to grab yourself a Guaraná to wash it down!
Paloma’s launches loaded Mexican nacho bags…and we don’t know how to feel about it
They look unhinged…but in the best way possible? Available every Wednesday from 4 pm until sold out, Paloma’s has changed the game with their loaded nacho bags. All you do is choose your flavour – Cheddar & Jalapeño Cheetos, Flamin’ Hot Doritos, Cheese Supreme Doritos or Flamin’ Hot Cheeto Puffs – add your protein (beef, chorizo, or chicken) and watch as it’s topped with liquid nacho cheese, guac, pico, sour cream, salsa. Your body might not thank you after a bag of these, but your taste buds will.
PSA: Vincent is closing
A gem in Canberra’s foodie scene, Vincent in Barton is closing its doors on Saturday 19 July – and yes, we’re devastated. But it’s not all bad news, because the team will be returning with something “completely new”. Keep an eye out, because we’ll keep you updated when we know more.
This is not a drill…Flute Bakery is now open on Saturdays
Can’t resist a Saturday morning pastry and coffee? In some very sweet news, you can now go to Flute Bakery on Saturdays to indulge in their tarts, gateaux, cakes and more from 8 am until 3 pm. And the best part? They’re shouting free coffee with every purchase on the opening day. Put Saturday 5 July in your diary…
Druk Family Restaurant brings Bhutanese culture to Swinger Hill
Momos, anyone? Encompassing the key dishes of Bhutanese cuisine, the menu here is small but packs a punch, with vegetarian, beef, pork, and chicken momos (your choice whether you want it steamed, fried or covered in chilli), Ema Datshi, Thukpa, Shakam Paa and more available.
Road trip? Albion Nights gives Braidwood’s heritage gem a glamorous makeover
The team behind premium event destination Mona Farm has worked their magic on Braidwood’s beloved heritage-listed Albion Hotel – and the results sound delicious. Along with transforming the lunch menu (where the staples remain but there are modern surprises like Slow Cooked Duck Salad and Sweet Potato Eggs), they’ve also launched Albion Nights.
Book yourself a table on Friday and Saturday nights and settle in for seasonal shared plates including Grilled King Prawns and Wagyu Picanha, paired with boutique Australian wines and signature cocktails. Apparently, their Spicy Margarita is already causing a stir…
Narrabundah has something new – it’s time to meet Illuka
We mentioned in a previous Foodie News that Café De Sareen was undergoing a re-brand – and now we know what it is. Meet Illuka, a new restaurant specialising in Mexican and Spanish fusion. Open Monday to Sunday for breakfast and lunch, and for dinner Wednesday to Saturday, on the menu you’ll find Breakfast Enoki Gnocchi, Mexican Style Eggs, Paella, hand-stretched pizza and more.
The Denman Kitchen is turning one and you’re invited!
Celebrating 12 months of serving fresh and flavoursome food and wine to the Denman Prospect community, The Denman Kitchen is hosting a bumper birthday bash. On Sunday 22 June, head along to enjoy local wine flights, birthday specials and (because it’s not a birthday without a cake), a sweet treat from Clementine Bakery. Make sure to book yourself a seat, because this is one party you won’t want to miss.
Turner gets its own pizza trailer
There’s one thing everyone can agree on – nothing beats a handmade pizza. So, with the news that Five Passions is launching a pizza trailer in Turner, winter is sounding extra delicious. They’re still fine-tuning the details, but keep an eye on their Instagram account to see when you can get your hands on a handmade, hot pizza straight out of the oven.
They had us at chocolate truffled chouquettes
That caught your attention, didn’t it? On Thursday 26 June, join Chef Christophe for a truffle demonstration and tasting, where he’ll share his love of French cuisine and culture. You’ll learn how to prepare fresh black truffles, then enjoy them with cauliflower velouté and the aforementioned chocolate truffled chouquettes for dessert. Book your spot here!
Burlesque at Bar Beirut? Say no more
It’s dinner. It’s cocktails. It’s showtime. Fresh off performing at the legendary Burlesque Hall of Fame in Las Vegas, Jazida is bringing world-class entertainment to Bar Beirut and it wont break your budget. For $150, you’ll get seven signature dishes from the Taste of Beirut set menu (including that famous zippy kingfish tartare), 90 minutes of premium free-flowing drinks – your choice of spirits, cocktails, Lebanese wines, and beer – as well as two world-class burlesque performances by Jazida. Taking place on Friday 27 June and 25 July, it’s perfect for date nights, girls’ nights…or just because it’s Friday night.
Chong Co opens in a fourth Canberra location
Serving delicious Thai food in Canberra for more than 14 years, Chong Co has opened in a fourth location in Canberra – Dickson. Located on Challis Street, you’ll find all of your favourites, from their Lamb Shanks Massaman Curry to Pad Thai and their Mango Ice Cream with Sweet Sticky Rice.
Pilot hosts an evening with Mallaluka
For those who can’t resist a wine dinner, this event is for you. Book yourself a table at Pilot on Wednesday 25 June to meet Sam Leyshon from Mallaluka – a small family run vineyard/winery located just outside of Yass. But unlike other wine dinners, there will be no lengthy speeches with stopping and starting, multiple glasses and a pa system. Instead, Sam will be dusting off his hospitality boots to pour wines and share his and Mallaluka’s story on a more intimate level. See you there?
A three-hour tequila experience? We’ll raise a glass to that
On Friday 27 June, you’ll want to go along to this boutique tasting experience. Held at The Baso, you’ll go on a three-hour journey as you sample a curated selection of blanco, reposado and añejo tequilas – including classics, rare finds, tequila liqueurs, Australian agave spirit, and some very special margaritas.
It’s the combination you didn’t know you needed – warm soup and cool Jazz
The Mercure Canberra is hosting a heartwarming winter event that the whole family will enjoy on Saturday 28 June. Inviting locals to a toe-tapping evening that blends the cosy comfort of homemade soup with the smooth sounds of jazz, go along to sip, savour and sway the night away! There will be a delicious range of house-made soups, mulled wine and cider for sale and more! Did we mention that entry is free?
100 wines, 14 wineries and no road trip required
After taking a well-deserved sabbatical in 2024, Rutherglen in the City is back in Canberra – and it’s shaping up to be something winederful! Mark Saturday 5 July in your diaries, and get ready to enjoy live music, gourmet food, and (of course) wine tasting. Find out more and grab your tickets here. Trust us, this is one event that’s definitely worth wine-ing about.
Calling all beer lovers, here’s a collab that will have you saying ‘Cheers!’
Two of Australia’s most decorated indie breweries – our very own BentSpoke Brewing Co. and Mountain Culture Beer Co – have announced the release of their first-ever collaboration, and it sounds delicious. On The Terps is a terpene-infused Black IPA that’s bursting with big flavour, dank vibes, and just the right amount of mischief. And it doesn’t pull punches. Head along to the brewery taproom to try it for yourself!
A week’s free coffee in Gungahlin!
EightyTwenty have just opened their new Gungahlin digs, and to celebrate, they’re giving away FREE coffee and barista-made drinks all week – everything from coffee to hot chocolates, chai lattes, and even matcha strawberries! All on the house – no catch, just good vibes and great drinks.
Get along to 114/43 Hibberson St, Gungahlin between Monday 23 and Sunday 29 June to grab yours – just remember there’s just one coffee per person per day!
Gravy T opens in Woden
A brand new spot for bold bowls, stuffed wraps, and loaded flavours is here! Described as ‘Indo-Mexican’, Gravy T is serving up everything from cheesy burritos and quesadillas to fries bowls and stuffed tacos. Find them at T1 C02, 6 Furzer Street in Phillip.
+84 Kitchen
Another addition to the Furzer Street precinct! +84 Kitchen promises “Authentic Vietnamese flavours, made by locals from Vietnam.”
We can’t wait to try the Signature Phở +84 Kitchen Style and the Hanoi-style Bún Chả – grilled pork with rice noodles, crafted by one of +84 Kitchen’s co-owners who spent most of her life in Hanoi.
Find them in the Wova Building, C04/6 Furzer Street in Phillip.
