Canberra City’s hidden food gems
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If you are tempted to branch out of your local this week, let us gently nudge you in the delicious direction of the heart of Canberra City—riddled with hidden gems that are patiently waiting for your tastebuds to explore.
The team at HerCanberra loves nothing more than to bring you news of the hottest new places to eat in town. Lord knows, we never seem to run out of openings to write about. But what about “old” places to eat—those which have stood the test of time and which draw us back for comfort and culinary reassurance year after year? Or just the reliable locals that might not have the wow factor, but they have our hearts (because that’s what counts)?
From little gems that have been levelling up our work lunch for generations to new and impressive influx of foodie havens well worth the reservation, you won’t be left disappointed (or hungry!)
The Charcoal
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The Charcoal is one of the longest-running restaurants in Canberra—and there is good reason it gets those return customers. You simply can’t beat a good steak, and you get the added bonus of eating it in the most retro of environments. Steaks come with potatoes always and your choice of the classic sauces (because some things are too good to change).
61 London Cct, Canberra City | charcoalrestaurant.com.au
Beach Burrito Co.
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Beach Burrito Co has been operating on City Walk for what seems like forever. But sometimes, when you want a truly authentic Mexican meal you just need to fight the uni students for a table (and, yes, you’ll want a margarita with your tacos and extra guac).
181 City Walk, Canberra City| beachburritocompany.com
Kinn Thai
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“Kinn” means “eat” in Thai, and that’s exactly what you’ll be doing at this popular restaurant. With an emphasis on the traditional way of eating Thai food which involves sharing plates with your mates, Kinn Thai has been described to us as orgasmic. What else do we need to say?
Shop FG03, 125 Bunda Street, Canberra City | kinncanberra
Sweet Bones Bakery and Café
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Nestled on the corner street of Braddon, this all-vegan café has something of a fierce reputation. With a Mexican-inspired menu and creative meat alternatives that manage to convert even the most carnivorous of hearts, it’s no surprise getting a seat on weekends is a battle in itself. Oh, and the Cinnabons are a must-try—sweet, warm and gooey in all the right places. I’ll take four!
8/18 Lonsdale St, Braddon | sweetbonescompany
The Goods Wholefoods
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Looking for a healthy and delicious work lunch? The Goods Wholefoods have got you covered. Their make-it-yourself salads are not only hearty but are perfect for those whose eat-out options are limited by dietary requirements.
Or (for those of us who panic at the thought of too many choices and quick decisions), you can’t go wrong with their signature menu meals. Think miso salmon, Mexican chicken and sesame tofu salads bursting with greens and veggies and washed down with a high-quality coffee or feel-good smoothie. Delicious!
Level 1 House/40 Marcus Clarke St, Canberra City | itsthegoods.com.au
Sandoochi
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There’s nothing better than a creative, flavoursome and filling sandwich to make your tastebuds completely melt—and Sandoochi does just that. Bringing to life unexpected combinations (that work so well together), this trailblazing café isn’t afraid to push the humble sandwich into new and stirring realms. Eggplant schnitty dooch anyone?
Shop 8 No Name Lane, City West | sandoochie.com.au
Rice and Nori Sushi
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Name a better soy mate (get it?) than delicious DIY sushi. Located in the heart of the city, Rice and Nori combines the traditional Japanese favours we know and love with aesthetically pleasing boxes that seriously look too cute to eat. Perfect for those who are in a rush and don’t have time to dine in.
Shop 7/131 City Walk, Canberra City | riceandnori.com.au
Super Sweet Café
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As the name would suggest, this sweet tooth oasis is filled with decadent and, quite frankly, irresistible creations. From yuzu and matcha mille crepe cake to the warm and delightful moon cake—there are plenty of options to leave you drooling. But if you are craving something slightly healthier to wash all that sugar down, Super Sweet Café truly has all your eating-out basis covered, with fresh, healthy meals not in short supply. Heaven!
G11/27 Lonsdale St, Braddon | facebook
Ciao Café
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It doesn’t matter what time of day it is, Ciao Braddon Café will make your tastebuds happy. Serving lunch, dinner, milkshakes, hot chocolate and cake, the whole family will find something to enjoy.
33 Mort St, Braddon | ciaocafe
iPho
Tucked away in Garema Place, you can quickly find iPho by following the crowds (and the swarming magpies). Seriously though, this family-owned business has a reputation for some of the best pho in Canberra—all at a reasonable price, might I add. A delicious culmination of traditional flavours and fresh ingredients. Perfect for those gloomy La Niña days when you can simply surrender yourself to the healing powers of pho!
Garema Place, Ground Level, Shop 1, 66-68 Bunda St, Canberra City | ipho.net.au
Banana Leaf
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Firmly planting their delicious roots at Akuna Street, Banana Leaf will transport you from the hustle and bustle of the city and into the warm and elegant arms of this sophisticated restaurant. Anchored firmly by traditional and authentic flavours, foodies can build an appetite for dishes such as the seeni sambol gnocchi, curry glazed duck and the traditional layered lamb biriyani. For a sweet finish, the coconut ice cream and the vegan chocolate will get your tastebuds tingling. Did someone say date night?
2 Akuna St, Canberra City | bananaleafrestaurant
Rye Café
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This is a Braddon stalwart that always keeps us coming back for more. Its warm and relaxed setting creates the perfect location for long brunching, good coffee and lots of laughs with friends. Fresh, simple and delicious—what more could you ask for?
9 Lonsdale St, Braddon | ryecafe.com.au
Edo Tori
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Craving Japanese food? The kind that melts effortlessly in your mouth? Say hello to Edo Tori. The expansive menu will transport you right into the heart of Japan—crafting a delicate balance between history and modern flavours. With a vast menu on offer, Edo Tori is best experienced with friends so that you can indulge over a share plate (or two). Enjoy!
43 Northbourne Ave, Canberra City | edotori
Miss Van’s
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With sculptural lighting and the duality of a traditional yet whimsical feel, Miss Vans will quickly reel you in and make it very hard to leave. The theme of “Old Ways meets New Traditions” ripples throughout this beautiful space, felt through the walls and in every dish you taste. From aromatic lunch specials such as the umami egg noodles and cauliflower curry (a perfect balance between spice and sweetness) to decadent dinner delights like the mushroom larb, and tom yum mussels, Miss Vans is a venue you return to more than once.
Shop 4/113/119 Marcus Clarke St, City West | missvans.com.au
Rebel Rebel
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It’s perhaps one of Canberra’s coolest places to dine, and just one glimpse inside will quickly tell you why. Its exposed wood arches and rebellious, moody lighting not only feel sophisticated but has the menu to match. Think hiramasa kingfish paired with burnt mandarin and sugarloaf cabbage doused in creamy tahini and harissa oil. Yum!
23 Marcus Clarke St, NewActon | rebelrebeldining
Kyō Coffee Project
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Hidden away (like all hidden gems should be) in Braddon’s hipster laneways, Kyō Coffee Project brings brunching comfort food infused with Asian-inspired flavours to life.
Everything on the menu is honestly drool-worthy, but if you need a recommendation, you can’t go wrong with the mushroom melody toast oozing in brunt miso butter. With a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of outdoor seating, plus plenty of second-hand shops close by, this edgy little café will quickly become your weekend obsession.
5/27 Lonsdale St, Braddon | kyocoffeeproject
Bar Rochford
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Looking to level-up work drinks or a dinner date? Bar Rochford is bursting with class, elegance and that magical je nais se quois. Every dish is locally-sourced, zingy with freshness and crafted with creativity. Located in the iconic Melbourne Building and imbued with charm, it’s no surprise Bar Rochford has become one of the city’s most awarded locations—drawing national interest while keeping Canberrans coming back for more.
1st/65 London Cct | barrochford.com
Feature image: Sandoochie by Ana Stuart.
