25+ ways to spend Valentine’s Day 2025 in Canberra
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These sweet suggestions will be sure to get hearts racing.
From where to book a table for two to fun activities that will woo your boo, here are 25+ ways to spend the most romantic day of the year.
EAT + DRINK
Book a romantic stay-cation at Midnight Hotel
Okay, this isn’t a restaurant suggestion but hear us out – is there anything better than a refreshing getaway where you can reconnect with your partner, preferably over a bottle of wine? Just in time for Valentine’s Day, Midnight Hotel is offering a romantic inner-city staycation for two.
Start the evening with an intimate dinner at Braddon Merchant before taking things upstairs where a bottle of bubbles awaits. Then, make the most of Midnight’s exclusive connection kit (featuring a deck of connection cards, a mini aromatherapy spa kit and sweet and salty gourmet nibbles), to fill the night with laughter, and unforgettable moments.
Then, in the morning, savour a sleep-in together before indulging in a leisurely breakfast at Braddon Merchant. Just make sure to set your room to ‘Do not disturb…’
Friday 14 February | 1 Elouera Street, Braddon | Book here.
Savour the taste of love at Braddon Merchant
Take white-tableclothed romance up a level with an intimate, candlelit dinner for two at Braddon Merchant this Valentine’s Day.
With a glass of sparkling wine on arrival, followed by a specially crafted five-
course set menu of share-style dishes, this menu is designed to inspire and ignite the senses.
Want something a little more? You can elevate the evening with an optional beverage package for $50 per person or indulge in a personally curated wine pairing at $75 per person. It’s romance at its finest.
Friday 14 February, with sittings at 6 pm and 8 pm | $120 per person | 1 Elouera Street, Braddon | Book here.
Make it a night to remember at Cuppacumbalong
Fine dining in an historic homestead – this will be a Valentine’s Day to remember. Recommencing after a short break, the first Friday Nights @ Cuppacumbalong is back just in time for Valentine’s Day, and to celebrate, they’ll be holding a memorable evening of fine food in one of Canberra’s oldest homesteads.
Providing a four-course, fixed-price, a-la-carte menu for each dinner, you can BYO drinks (there’s no corkage) making it perfect for small groups. Galentine’s catch-up, anyone?
Friday 14 February, 6 pm – 9 pm | $110 per person | 21 Naas Road, Tharwa | Book here.
Have a romantic dinner for two at Chifley’s Bar & Grill
A special Lover’s Cocktail upon arrival, a complimentary bottle of bubbles, and an indulgent three-course dinner – excuse the pun, but what’s not to love about this romantic dinner at Chifley’s Bar & Grill?
Start with an assortment of seafood dishes, followed by a main of either ricotta and spinach stuffed chicken breast or grilled Riverina Angus sirloin served with creamy mushroom sauce. Finally, end the feast with a fanciful dessert plate to share!
Want to make the night even more memorable? Book an overnight stay at Hotel Kurrajong (which includes breakfast for two).
Friday 14 February, 6 pm – 9 pm | $249 per couple | 8 National Circuit, Barton | Book here.
Feel infatuated at The Inn
Want to leave all the hard decisions to someone else? The Inn is offering an evening of romance, with a delicious, curated set menu that’s sure to leave your someone special feeling infatuated and spoiled.
Book your table under the warm lamplight or enjoy the last of summer on The Terrace as you watch the sunset over Mount Ainslie while sharing a mouthwatering meal. They’ll take care of the rest.
Friday 14 February, from 5:45 pm | $120 per person | Level 1/1 Edgar Street, Ainslie | Book here.
Enjoy the lovefest at Bar Beirut
This Valentine’s Day, Bar Beirut is cranking up the oh-la-la with two seriously sizzling seatings that every kind of love bird will enjoy.
Both experiences include the Taste of Beirut set menu (featuring seven signature dishes), as well as free-flowing drinks, and va va BOOM performances that’ll set your heart racing.
For those looking for something a little spicy, we recommend the Fire and Flames seating at 8 pm where Jazida will perform a sultry fire and fan burlesque show as she quite literally lights herself on fire. It’s hot. It’s steamy. You get the picture.
Friday 14 February, from 6 pm | $150 per person | 25 Garema Place, City | Book here.
Wine and dine at natural nine
Indulge in a romantic evening filled with exquisite food and intimate ambience at this special Valentine’s Day banquet.
Blending traditional Chinese flavours with a touch of romance, eat your way through dishes including steamed dumplings, sweet and sour barramundi fillet, and coconut sticky rice balls. The best part? The menu is also available at lunchtime, making it a sweet way to break up your day.
Friday 14 February, 12 pm and 6 pm | $98 per person | 21 Binara Street, City | Book here.
Enjoy something flirty and flavoursome at Monster Kitchen and Bar
Monster Kitchen & Bar is hosting a killer feast that will make your heart skip a beat – and with meat now on the menu, you have no excuse not to go.
Paired with some signature cocktails, you also have the option to add indulgences including a Champagne toast ($110) or cocktail pairing ($45). Excuse the pun, but what’s not to love about this romantic dinner?
Friday 14 February, with sittings at 6 pm and 8 pm | $159 per person (6 pm sitting) or $149 per person (8 pm sitting) | Ground/25 Edinburgh Avenue, City | Book here.
Make the moves at Med
Crispy falafels, Baklava Sundae, Mediterranean-style rosés, and handpicked Greek and Turkish wines – Med is serving up a Mediterranean feast designed to delight the senses.
Order yourself a specially crafted Valentine’s Day cocktail served exclusively for the occasion and enjoy a relaxed and delicious evening with your loved one.
Friday 14 February, from 5.30 pm | $110 per person | 1/1 Burbury Close, Barton | Book here.
Say the ‘L’ word at Leyla
The one thing better than gazing into your lover’s eyes? Gazing from the rooftop at Leyla Bar.
Enjoy a bottle of Prosecco paired with four decadent chocolate-covered strawberries for $75. Feeling extra romantic? Upgrade to Piper Heidsieck Champagne for just $25 more. Complete the evening with the exclusive Valentine’s Day cocktail, created especially for the occasion.
Friday 14 February, from 3 pm | From $75 | 1 Burbury Close, Barton | Book here.
Take luxury to the next level at Meat and Wine Co.
Did someone say an ‘exclusive meat and wine pairing tailored just for you’? This V-Day Meat and Wine Co is taking luxury to the next level.
Pick from a Rose and Lychee Spritz or Pomegranate Margarita to sip on upon arrival and choose an entrée, main and dessert each for an unforgettable meal. And with a menu that includes Lamb and Bone Marrow Croquettes, King Prawns, Salmon Skewer, Quail, Baileys & White Chocolate Tiramisu, and more, it’ll be the perfect combination of lavish and delicious.
Friday 14 February, from 5 pm | $185 per person | 220 London Circuit, Ground Level, 1 Constitution Avenue, City | Book here.
Eat your heart out at Capitol Bar and Grill
Promising to serve indulgence complete with longing gazes and whispering sweet nothings, you can eat your heart out at this delicious venue.
With a menu crafted to sweep you off your feet, you’ll share antipasti plates, delicious mains and – of course – a decadent dessert.
Friday 14 February, with sittings at 6 pm and 8 pm | $99 per person | 1 London Circuit, City | Book here.
Feel l’amour at Louis
Do you feel that in the air? Head to Louis to feel l’amour and book an exquisite dining experience with a specially curated Valentine’s Day menu.
Savour exquisite dishes such as seared Yellowfin Tuna with radish and macadamia cream, Eastern Rock Lobster Risotto, and Roast Duck Breast paired with confit leg and smoked beetroot. And to finish, enjoy a decadent dessert featuring strawberry shortbread, white chocolate mousse, and fromage blanc sorbet.
Friday 14 February from 5.30 pm | $155 per person | Ground Floor/18 National Circuit, Barton | Book here.
Relax into romance at the Alby
A bottle of Prosecco perfectly paired with a cheese platter for two – the Alby has your Valentine’s Day sorted.
For cocktail enthusiasts, they’ll also be hosting a Valentine’s Day experience which includes a specially crafted Valentine’s Day cocktail and a decadent raspberry chocolate lava dessert for two. Whether you’re toasting with wine or savouring a delicious dessert, these packages are designed to make your Valentine’s Day celebration unforgettable.
Friday 14 February from 5.30 pm | From $60 | Albemarle Building, G05/45 Furzer Street, Phillip | Book here.
Go bottomless at Lazy Su
With your drinks that is. This Valentine’s Day, choose to dine on their regular or vegan Feed Me menu and add on bottomless booze for an additional $37 per person (think a Yuzu and Peach Frostie, Strawperol Spritz and Mr Sparkles Bubbles).
Prefer to pick your own food? You can do that as well and add on bottomless booze for just $45 per person. Plus, other special “love” inspired cocktails will be available on the night to get everyone in the mood.
Friday 14 February, from 8.15 pm | From $63 per person | 9 Lonsdale Street, Braddon | Book here.
Make your night unforgettable at Inka
With a unique fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavors, Inka will make your Valentine’s Day unforgettable.
With the choice of adding a bottle of bubbles, a wine pairing, or a welcome sparkling rose or mocktail on arrival. Would rather have an early night? You can also share the love over lunch.
Friday 14 February, from 11.30 am (lunch) and 6 pm (dinner) | From $140 per person | Shop B11A/148 Bunda Street, City | Book here.
Have a very vegan Valentine’s at Stand By Me
Looking for a romantic night out (or just a delicious vegan dinner)? Stand By Me is holding a special six-course degustation menu of Mediterranean-inspired food for only $80 per person.
Wondering what’s on the menu? There will be everything from mixed dips to pumpkin arancini and coffee with vegan chocolates! Bookings are essential by direct message or phone 0481 572 425.
Friday 14 February, from 7 pm | $80 per person | 7/9 Lyons Place, Lyons | Book here.
Up for a road trip? Head along to the Boorowa Ex-Services Club masquerade cocktail party
Burrowa House is hosting an incredible auction and masquerade cocktail party this Valentine’s Day, and you’re invited.
This special evening is not only a chance to enjoy an incredible live band, wine and champagne, and delicious canapés, but also an opportunity to bid on unique auction items ranging from exclusive experiences to one-of-a-kind treasures – all in support of a great cause, Burrowa House.
Saturday 15 February, 6.30 pm | $100 per person | Boorowa Ex-Services Club, 55/59 Pudman Street, Boorowa | Book here.
Get cosy at Carlotta
Channel the romance of the Mediterranean coast this Valentine’s Day and book a romantic table for two at Carlotta.
They’ll be serving up the choice of two Chef’s Menu options priced at $88 per person or $110 per person, featuring antipasti, handmade pasta and coal-fired offerings from the custom-made wood oven. It’s destined to impress.
Friday 14 February, from 5 pm | $88 per person or $110 per person | 20 Scotts Crossing, City | Book here.
Take your love to Japan with Koto
Want to treat your true love to an overseas trip without leaving the country? Koto is the place to go for some premium Japanese without getting on a plane.
For $165 per person, you’ll get a glass of complimentary bubbles, a cocktail or a mocktail on arrival along with a menu overflowing with mouth-watering dishes including a sushi platter, beef tataki with tomato ponzu and sweet potato and the choice of ichigo shortcake with strawberry sorbet or pear fondant with ginger ice cream.
Friday 14 February, from 5 pm | $165 per person | 1 King George Terrace, Parkes | Book here.
Give a piece of your heart at Pialligo Estate
This Valentine’s Day, give a piece of your heart at Pialligo Estate over a mouth-watering three-course menu.
Start with house-baked focaccia, and lemon myrtle butter before choosing from a selection of entrees and mains before finishing with a red wine poached Pialligo pear with vanilla mascarpone, and caramel walnuts.
Friday 14 February, from 5 pm | $89 per person | 18 Kallaroo Road, Pialligo | Book here.
Experience an evening in the countryside at Three Blue Ducks
Want to escape for the night? Experience an evening in the countryside at Three Blue Ducks with a beautiful four-course menu and a class of sparkling on arrival.
Choose your menu for the night and why not make a weekend of it and treat your loved one to a romantic stay at Nimbo Fork Lodge? They had us at duck egg with hollandaise and tomato and Brookies Mac tiramisu.
Friday 14 February, from 6 pm | $115 per person | 330 Nimbo Road, Killimicat | Book here.
THINGS TO DO
Learn about the love stories that shaped the nation
Running for only three days, She Shapes History Tours returns with its most scandalous tour just in time for Valentine’s Day and Galentine’s Day.
Discover Canberra’s hidden romantic side on this eye-opening journey into the heart of the capital, revealing its lesser-known history of love, passion, and scandal. Grab your date or some friends and uncover the stories that rocked the city, from power couples to secret love affairs, and everyday romances that thrived despite government policies.
Thursday 13, Friday 14, and Saturday 15 February | $60 per person | The Hyatt, 120 Commonwealth Avenue, Yarralumla | Book here.
Phones down dating at The Harmonie German Club
This isn’t your regular speed dating event. Designed for people of the LGBTQI+ community aged between 30 and 45 who are fed up with Tinder, Grindr, Bumble are invited to get together on Valentine’s Day to meet other, like-minded people and make genuine connections.
Designed for those participating to communicate properly with an unhurried 10-minute chat each round (as well as time to mingle together between rounds), there will be comedy throughout the night, live music at the end of the speed rounds, and the opportunity to win dinner for a first date with someone you meet at the Phones Down Dating experience! Plus champagne and canapes, are included in the ticket price.
Friday 14 February, 7 pm – 11 pm | $20 per person | The Harmonie German Club, 49 Jerrabomberra Avenue, Narrabundah | Book here.
Find your Valentine at Blue Eyes
Looking for a date for the big day? Blue Eyes is hosting a unique speed dating experience for 29- to 49-year-olds searching for a spark.
Held on Thursday 13 February, all you need to do is fill out a short profile to be matched on a series of six to eight quick-fire date rounds to THE most compatible singles in the room. Tickets include two drinks (one on arrival and one at the end of dating), and we can confidently say that love will be in the air.
Thursday 13 February, 7 pm – 9.30 pm | $69 per person | Level 1/5 Garema Place, City | Book here.
Paint Your Partner in Braddon
Literally. Paint Pinot in Braddon is holding a fun session where you’ll get the opportunity to test your artistic skill while painting a portrait of your partner, sipping wine and eating some yummy food.
Taking place over three hours, there’s no experience required as the talented team helps you unleash your hidden artist – aided with a glass of something delicious, of course.
Friday 14 February, 6.30 pm – 9.30 pm | $66 per person | 27 Lonsdale Street, Braddon | Book here.
Listen to some timeless love songs
A sea of flickering candles, a program packed full of love songs, and a stunning venue – name something more romantic? This is one swoon-worthy event.
Fever is bringing a love-themed Candlelight Concert to Canberra for an enchanting evening of music. Playing some of the most romantic love songs from pop culture – including ‘Shallow’ from A Star Is Born and Elvis Presley’s ‘Can’t Help Falling In Love’ – this 65-minute performance will leave you with all of the warm and fuzzy feelings.
Friday 14 February with sittings at 6.30 pm and 8.30 pm | From $41 per person | James Fairfax Theatre, National Gallery of Australia, 30 Parkes Place East, Parkes | Book here.
Find love at Moose at First Sight
Inspired by the hit reality TV show Married at First Sight, Canberra icon Mooseheads is hosting the ultimate Valentine’s Day party – Moose at First Sight.
Promising a night of fun, flirtation, and maybe even finding “the one”, to make it even more memorable, Lauren Dunn from MAFS 2024 Season will be making a special guest appearance to meet fans, take selfies, and officially kick off the party.
Whether you’re there to party with your partner, celebrate being single, or take a chance on finding your soulmate, it sounds like the place to be.
Friday 14 February, from 9 pm | $15 per person | 105 London Circuit, City | Book here.
Share the love with some cute kittens at Cocktails and Cuddles
Because everyone deserves some love on Valentine’s Day.
Partnering with Black Cat Cocktails for an intimate evening of cocktails and kitten cuddles, the Canberra Street Cat Alliance is holding a wholesome event that everyone will love.
Set in a gorgeous garden, each ticket includes two cocktails of your choice from the menu offered by Black Cat Cocktails, a grazing table, and kitten cuddles! Tickets are limited, so get in quick!
Friday 14 February, from 6.30 pm | $50 per person | Address supplied upon ticket purchase | Book here.
Feel the buzz at the Belco Bowl Jam Street Party
This night not be your standard date night, but it’ll be sure to create a buzz.
Held as part of the longest-running skateboard event in Oz, the Belco Bowl Jam Street Party is kicking off Valentine’s Day with on massive party. Featuring the Crusher Ramp Jam presented by Skull Candy, as well as performances from Charlotte and The Harlots along with Sketch Method, take your date along for a massive day out.
Friday 14 February, from 6.30 pm | Elourea Street, Braddon | More information here.
Go see Tinderella and the Eight Unique Uses of Tinder
This Valentine’s, gather your gals and go laugh at another woman’s disastrous dating life.
This is a one-human comedy cabaret, created and performed by Alyce Fisher. Exploring the real-life tales of her very own Tinder escapades, investigates contemporary app dating culture and aims to empower everyone to take control of their own app dating experience.
Strongly influenced by Disney characters, featuring a bespoke mockumentary film, a magic wand and audience interaction/participation, this show is for comedy and cabaret lovers, and anyone who has experienced the highs and the lows of dating apps.
Friday 14 February, 7 pm – 5 pm | $32 per person | Tuggeranong Arts Centre, Reed Street North, Greenway | Book here.
Shake it this Valentine’s!
Shake up your plans this Valentine’s Day with a fun cocktail class at Highball Express.
Perfect for a first date, a long-term relationship, girls’ night, or anything in between. Highball’s bartenders will show you the tricks of the trade before you get shakin’ your thang behind the Casita Bar.
Friday 14 February, 6 pm – 7 pm | $60pp | Level 1, 75 London Circuit, Canberra City | Book here.
Feature image: Braddon Merchant. Supplied.