Canberra restaurants that have stood the test of time
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As a veritable paradise for foodies, you’d be forgiven for struggling to keep up with – or choose from – all the places to eat.
But what about the institutions that really have stood the test of time? Known and loved for decades, these restaurants have contributed to and shaped Canberra’s dining scene, helping it become what it is today.
From a 100-year-old restaurant and bar in Griffith to an institution serving Fijian-Indian cuisine, here are Canberra’s most faithful and iconic restaurants.
Rama’s Fiji Indian Restaurant (Pearce)
Marking their 36th birthday in 2026, Rama’s is an institution that has a IYKYK reputation. Known for its delicious Fijian/Indian dishes, it’s the family behind this business that makes it such a local treasure.
With owner/hostess Mini Gaundar always serving customers with a smile, you can bet she’ll remember you the next time you go in for a meal.
Pearce Shopping Centre, Corner of Macfarland and Hodgson Cres, Pearce | ramas.com.au
Timmy’s Kitchen (Griffith)
Established in 1985, this Chinese/Malaysian restaurant is an icon of Manuka – and it might be because they serve one of the best stir-fries in town.
With chefs trained in Chinese and Malaysian cuisine and an extensive menu that spans soups, noodles and more, we wouldn’t be surprised if it’s still around in another 40 years’ time.
Shop 1/18 Furneaux Street, Griffith | timmyskitchen.com.au
Caphs (Griffith)
At 100 years old, Caphs holds the title of Canberra’s oldest continuously operating eatery. Constructed in 1926 by the Notaras family, it was originally opened as the Liberty Café.
It later became Mogambo’s in the swinging sixties and seventies before reverting to Notaras family ownership in 1990 and becoming the Caphs we know today. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the food is as classic as the venue.
26 Franklin Street, Griffith | caphscanberra.com.au
Les Bistronomes (Campbell)
Serving refined French cuisine in a quaint bistro, Les Bistronomes was founded in 2014 by two French men with a desire to extend bistronomie to Canberra.
Originally located in Braddon, its Campbell home has become synonymous with exceptional service and gourmet dishes, cementing its reputation as a must-book destination for an elegant dining escape.
18 Blamey Place, Campbell | lesbistronomes.net
Lanterne Rooms (Campbell)
Known for its bold Nyonya flavours, and dishes with a ‘A-ma’ (grandma) soul that are presented with modern elegance, Lanterne Rooms originally opened in 2009 at the Campbell shops.
Relocating to the Iskia Building in 2019, the refined pan–Asian menu is best described as “grandma’s recipes with a contemporary flair”. Think chargrilled chicken satay with peanut sambal and caramelised walnut, spiced lentils and chickpeas with roasted vegetable and Tom Yum infused prawns served with rockmelon salsa.
Ground Floor of ISKIA EAST Building, 81 Constitution Avenue, Campbell | chairmangroup.com.au/lanterne-rooms
Mezzalira Italian Restaurant (City)
Since 1996, Mezzalira has made a name for itself as one of Canberra’s most iconic Italian restaurants. Serving simple, high-quality seasonal dishes made with the best local produce, the team reimagine the classics of Italian cuisine.
From handmade pasta and wood-fired dishes to an extensive, award-winning wine list, it’s a favourite for a reason.
55 London Circuit, City | mezzalira.com.au
Charcoal Grill Restaurant (City)
This traditional European-style steakhouse has changed little since opening in the Melbourne Building in 1962. Small, cosy and rich with classic interiors that pay tribute to the 1920s architecture, the menu – as the name suggests – centres on charcoal-grilled favourites.
From fresh seafood to perfectly cooked, high-quality steaks, with more than 60 years of service under its belt, this is one restaurant well worth revisiting.
61 London Circuit, City | charcoalrestaurant.com.au
