I have lived in Canberra, specifically in Tuggeranong (far south) for longer than I care to acknowledge, and in that time I have seen this city transform itself from an overgrown country town into a hip, culturally diverse city that is alive and buzzing with new places to see and experience.

Until recently, it used to be that in order to get a decent meal or a drink after dark on a week night you had to head into the city – or at least to Kingston or Manuka. But times they are a-changing, and there are now a number of great places in and around Woden and Tuggeranong that are holding their own. Here are some of my top picks.

Woden

Rama’s Fiji Indian 

If you want great tasting, reasonably priced food then Rama’s at the Pearce shops is hard to beat. I can remember going here years ago as a broke 20 year old, and a decade later it is still as good as ever.

Whether you like your curries hot and spicy, or mild and full of flavour Rama’s has something to please all palates. The staff are super friendly and feel like they really care about their clientele. Rama’s is incredibly popular but not very big so if you want to guarantee yourself a table, book ahead.

Pistachio Dining 

For a special occasion or real foodies, I recommend Pistachio Dining at the Torrens shops. Local chef David Keeley and his team have created some truly first class dishes based on quality seasonal produce that are sure to delight even the toughest critics. I recommend you save room for dessert because they are AMAZING.

The Hungry Buddha

Want to try something a little outside your comfort zone then the lightly spiced, authentic Nepalese dishes of The Hungry Buddha in Curtin are not to be missed. Tucked away down a flight of stairs this is one of the south side’s hidden gems. This is also a great option for vegetarians.

Ethiopia Down Under 

Ethiopia Down Under might not look fancy but it is worth giving it a go. Unlike Indian or Thai food, Ethiopian cuisine is milder and is traditionally eaten by hand with Injera, the traditional Ethiopian bread that is used to scoop up food from the ‘mosob’ or table plate. The communal style of eating is perfect for larger groups, especially as there are lots of tasty vegetarian and gluten free options available as part of the standard menu, so everyone will be happy.

Belluci’s 

Another long time Woden option, Belluci’s has been serving up traditional Italian dishes with a modern twist for over six years. Pizza, pasta, seafood and hearty meat dishes are what they are best at and they never fail to deliver an enjoyably relaxed dining experience. A great family friendly option any night of the week, they are also open for lunch Monday to Friday.

A Bite to Eat

This quirky cafe and bar serves up an eclectic, interesting mix of dishes matched only by its decor. A Bite to Eat feels like a much cooler take on your nanna’s lounge room with its kitsch homely style. Sit on the couches and chat over a coffee, or hang out in the sunny courtyard with a cold beer; the choice is yours. The all-day breakfast on weekends is a must.

Weston Creek

Kusina

People are raving about this place. Kusina, meaning kitchen in Filipino, is great for a quick midweek bite to eat or a casual weekend dinner. The food is tasty and affordable and the staff incredibly welcoming. The ‘Boodle Feast’ is a must for those wanting to get the full experience.

Maestral

Another Canberra classic, I went to Maestral with a group of twelve a few months ago and everyone loved their dishes and waddled out of there completely stuffed and planning to return soon. Croatian food features lots of fresh seafood as well as influences from Hungary, Austria, Italy and the Middle East.  The dishes are huge, the fried potatoes totally addictive, and their apple strudel is some of the best in the city. Dobar Tek! (that’s Croatian for ‘enjoy your meal’).

Tuggeranong

The London Burgers & Beers 

This brand spanking new spin off from the much loved, city based, London Burgers & Beers is the latest edition to the Tuggeranong town centre. Long time nappy valley residents now have somewhere relaxed and fun to go for great food and few beers close to home. I for one am VERY excited about this prospect. Expect big, meaty burgers and cold beer on tap – they even have a very pleasant outdoor area.

Streets of Asia

A mix of Chinese and Thai dishes, Streets of Asia has been around for as long as I can remember. The refurbished decor is relaxed and comfortable. My dish of choice is the yummy, and healthy, Chicken Tom Yum noodle soup. A very affordable mid week option for those nights when you can’t be bothered cooking but still want to feel like you are being somewhat health conscious.

Little Istanbul 

Little Istanbul is a slightly upmarket take on the standard Turkish cuisine with a few modern twists on some classic dishes. The grilled lamb chops are my personal favourite. They also do a pretty decent coffee.

Brew Bar

The original Brew Bar on Anketell St is so popular with local public servants looking for good quality coffee that they opened a second one on the corner of Athllon Drive. If you are looking for a decent weekend breakfast spot then this would my top choice. My daughter also loves their cupcakes and babycinos.

5 Senses Cafe 

I have yet to experience the newest cafe in Tuggeranong but if the photos on their website are to be believed then I don’t think I will be disappointed. They describe themselves as a ‘modern and inviting take on the traditional cafe scene with a focus on quality dishes and passionate service’. Their breakfast menu looks absolutely mouth watering and include such favourites as Eggs Benedict and Waffles with baked ricotta and strawberries.