Eight al fresco venues for long warm days
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We’ve rounded up some of our favourite Canberra al fresco venues for the long warm days when the call of the outdoors is irresistible.
From $2 oysters to café classics and charcuterie, here are eight places to dine al fresco in Canberra (and don’t worry, most of these options can be enclosed if the weather turns).
Louis Terrace (Barton)
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Now open in Barton’s fine dining darling Louis, the outdoor Terrace is a beautiful location that’s suitable for all occasions. Fully enclosed and set amongst the lush greenery of the area, it promises an elevated dining experience that pairs perfectly with their sun-kissed menu—from marinated green olives and toasted almonds to a pear and almond tart served with cinnamon ice cream. Soak in a spring evening with a glass of Eden Road Riesling and enjoy the ambiance.
Open from 5 pm, Monday to Saturday | Ground Floor, Hotel Realm, 18 National Circuit | louisdining.com.au
Maple and Clove (Barton)
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With an ample outside area for those wanting to sit and absorb the stunning weather, Maple and Clove offer delicious and nutritious dining options. Serving meals that are made using fresh, local, seasonal, and wholefood ingredients, this café is open for breakfast and lunch—and promises to be a great chance to recharge your body and spirit in the sun.
Open from 7.30 am – 3 pm Monday to Friday and 8 am – 3 pm Saturday to Sunday | 7 Burbury Close, Barton | mapleandclove.com.au
Highball Express (City)
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Sit back on the breezy terrace of Highball and make the most of a warmer-than-average day with a glass of bubbles in one hand and an oyster in the other. Every Sunday they’ll be serving $2 oysters and an exclusive champagne and sparkling wine menu, which is perfect for channelling that vacay feeling without having to leave town. Overlooking London Circuit and City Hill, the views will be as good as the vibes.
Open from 4 pm, every Sunday | 77 London Circuit, Canberra City | highballexpress.com.au
Saint Malo (City)
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This hidden oasis in the heart of Canberra will transport you to the heart of sunny Spain—and as spring blooms, their garden bar is the place to be. Perfect for a sun-kissed afternoon, their Spanish-inspired menu and cocktail list will have you believing that you’re in the Mediterranean (if you ignore the hint of winter that’s still on the breeze).
Open from 5.30 pm – 9.30 pm Tuesday to Saturday, 11.30 am – 9.30 pm Saturday, and 11 am – 3 pm Sunday | 23 London Circuit, Canberra City | saintmalo.com.au
Pollen Café (Acton)
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With plenty of outdoor seating, head to Pollen Café at the Australian Botanic Gardens for a coffee and cake amongst the botanicals. The vibe is relaxed and comfortable while the food ranges from an all-day breakfast menu to long lunch options that go extremely well with a glass of something cold in hand. Want to level up your experience? Pack your own picnic rug and stroll through the gardens before indulging in a picnic feast made by the team.
Open from 9 am – 3.30 pm, Monday to Sunday | Clunies Ross Street, Acton | margot.bar
Parlour (New Acton)
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You might love a cosy night among the colourful décor of Parlour, but their secluded outdoor area is the place to be when the sun is out. Perfect for relaxing and having a quick bite between meetings or having a long-overdue catch-up with friends on the weekend, they have something for every appetite and palate—best enjoyed on their sun-soaked patio.
Open from 12 pm – 3 pm Tuesday and 12 pm – 10 pm Wednesday to Saturday | 16 Kendall Lane, Acton | parlourdining.com.au
Walter Café (Parkes)
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If brunch is on your mind, Walter Café is the place to go. With sweeping views of Lake Burley Griffin, you can settle in for a long catch-up on the balcony or take a spot by the windows to watch the world go by. And with a menu full of classics like bruschetta with roast heirloom tomato, whipped ricotta, balsamic glaze, baby capers and basil, you won’t be disappointed.
From 8 am – 4 pm, Monday to Friday and from 7 am – 4 pm, Saturday and Sunday | Barrine Drive, Regatta Point, Commonwealth Park, Parkes | waltercafe.com.au
Margot Espresso Vin and Fromage (Parkes)
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This small espresso and wine bar offers the best of both worlds—as well as stunning views of the lake while you sip and nibble away. Completely al fresco, channel the European experience of sitting on the sidewalk with a glass of wine in hand while enjoying gourmet toasties, pasties or some delicious, curated cheeses.
From 7 am Monday to Sunday | West Kiosk, Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes | margot.bar
Feature image: Louis Terrace. Supplied.
