The BYO list: seven Canberra spots for a cheaper group night out
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When you want the atmosphere, shared plates, and lively chatter of a proper night out without the dreaded big bill at the end, one thing is for sure: BYO is your best friend.
Whether you have a cellar full of regional drops waiting for the right moment or you’re simply grabbing a crisp Nick O’Leary Riesling from the local bottle shop on your way, these seven Canberra spots let you bring your own wine. We’ll raise a glass to that!
Editor’s note: Call ahead to double-check the venue’s BYO terms when booking. Most venues restrict BYO to wine only (no spirits or pre-mixes) and may apply corkage per head rather than per bottle.
Blu Ginger (City)
Located right on East Row, Blu Ginger has long been a go-to for city workers and weekend crowds alike. The massive dining room means big tables can spread out comfortably, while the modern Indian menu is packed with rich, spice-laden curries, fragrant biryanis, and warm naan made for sharing.
What to drink: Take a bold, medium-bodied cool-climate Shiraz or a dry Rosé to slice through the richness of their signature Lamb Rogan Josh and butter chicken.
2/5-21 Genge Street, City | bluginger.com.au
Banana Leaf (City)
Banana Leaf brings the fiery, fragrant world of Sri Lankan dining to life in the city. Think: pan-seared hopper bowls, aromatic black pork curry, and flaky kothu roti. The space feels polished yet relaxed – perfect for when you want something a little different for your next catch-up.
What to drink: Sri Lankan spice loves acidity. Pack a zesty Sauvignon Blanc or an off-dry Riesling to balance out the heat.
2 Akuna Street, City | bananaleafrestaurant.com.au
Two Sisters Lao Thai (Dickson)
A local staple for a reason, Two Sisters serves up punchy Lao and Thai dishes that don’t hold back on fresh herbs, lime, and chilli. The casual dining room fills up fast, making it a great, low-fuss start to a Friday night out in Dickson.
What to drink: Grab a fruity, aromatic white wine – like a young Semillon – from a local Canberra District winery on your way through.
5/38 Badham Street, Dickson | twosisterslaothai.com.au
Lanterne Rooms (Campbell)
Situated in the leafy Campbell shops, Lanterne Rooms offers an elevated Malay-Nyonya dining experience surrounded by warm timber, ambient lighting, and lantern-lit charm. Their BYO allowance makes a luxurious group dinner surprisingly manageable.
What to drink: Take a special bottle you’ve been saving, like a refined Chardonnay or a smooth Pinot Noir, which pairs elegantly with their iconic smoked duck curry.
Ground Floor of ISKIA EAST Building, 81 Constitution Avenue, Campbell | chairmangroup.com.au
Mínima (Yarralumla)
Proof that BYO doesn’t have to mean casual paper tablecloths. Run by brothers Mork and Benn Ratanakosol (the creative minds behind the legendary Morks), Mínima serves clever, boundary-pushing “third culture” dishes paying homage to Chinese and Southeast Asian flavours. Getting high-end, hatted-level culinary artistry alongside an affordable BYO option is a rare treat.
What to drink: Take a top-shelf Riesling or a chilled light Red (like a Gamay or Pinot Noir) that lets the complex, aromatic flavours on the plate shine.
Unit 3/29 Bentham Street, Yarralumla | eatminima.com.au
D’Browes Restaurant (Narrabundah)
D’Browes is a true hidden treasure for locals who appreciate timeless European hospitality. Think crisp linens, candlelit tables, and generous portions of rich, comforting classics like braised veal shin, duck confit, and their iconic house-made seafood pie. It feels like stepping into a warm neighbourhood bistro in Europe, making it ideal for an intimate group dinner where you want to hear each other talk.
What to drink: Take a classic French Pinot Noir or a rich, aged Cabernet Sauvignon from the cellar to match the hearty, slow-braised meats.
59 Boolimba Crescent, Narrabundah | dbrowes.com.au
Rama’s Fijian Indian Cuisine (Pearce)
Operating out of the Pearce shops for over 30 years, Rama’s is a Southside institution. The vibrant, flower-adorned dining room is always packed to the brim with big family tables and groups sharing mountains of coconut-rich Fijian-Indian curries, spicy pakoras, and fresh naan. It’s loud, joyful, and effortlessly welcoming.
What to drink: Pack a chilled, aromatic Riesling to complement their iconic Fijian goat curry or creamy mango chicken.
Pearce Shopping Centre, Corner Macfarland and, Hodgson Crescent, Pearce | ramas.com.au
Feature image: Pew Pew Studio.
