Eight outdoor dining destinations to make the most of the last days of summer
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It might only be February, but autumn is in the air.
After a sudden cold snap (seriously – WHAT WAS THAT?!) on the weekend that saw the temperature dip to an overnight low of nine degrees in Canberra, our thoughts are already turning to how we can best soak up the last of the summer sun before the weather well and truly turns.
Luckily, we have plenty of options to drink, dine and unwind outdoors. Here are eight suggestions in Canberra, perfect for everything from a long and leisurely lunch to a casual catch-up.
Parlour (NewActon)
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Parlour might be best known for its eclectic interiors, intimate spaces and cosy chairs, but its airy terrace is the perfect space to while away a late-summer afternoon. With new management at the helm, there’s a growing regional wine list to enjoy as well as a moreish menu of nibbles designed to share.
16 Kendall Lane, New Acton | parlourdining.com.au
Caffé al Lago (Gunghalin)
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Located on the edge of Yerrabi Pond, Gungahlin locals don’t have to travel far to dine by the water. Serving a mouthwatering range of Italian sandwiches on freshly baked schiacciata and focaccia panini bread, they take walk-ins only – and it’s well worth the wait.
60A Phyllis Ashton Circuit, Gungahlin | @caffeallago
Margot (Parkes)
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This small espresso and wine bar offers the best of both worlds. Set in the waterfronts of Lake Burley Griffin, Margot is completely al fresco, so you can 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.
West Kiosk, Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes | margot.bar
Rosa’s (Parkes)
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Drinks amongst the roses? Don’t mind if we do. Serving everything from your morning coffee to your arvo vino, Rosa’s transforms from day to night.
Open from 7 am until late every day in the National Rose Gardens, choose a table up on the deck or bring a picnic blanket and find a spot on the lawns with a cheeseboard, pizzas and bottle of wine.
King George Terrace, Parkes | rosascbr.com.au
Ostani (Barton)
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This al fresco area has everything you could desire – from a fully stocked bar to lush and leafy green surroundings. Serving a contemporary European menu, from breakfast until dinner you can sip and snack on everything from pasta to pizza.
A creative cocktail list completes the offering, making it an enticing destination day or night.
Hotel Realm, 18 National Circuit, Barton | ostani.com.au
The Hyatt (Yarralumla)
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Who doesn’t love a garden bar in summer? Join Hyatt Hotel Canberra for a magical evening in their stunning Rose Courtyard every Friday from 4 pm.
there will also be live acoustic music, a Chandon pop-up bar and a gourmet live grill, and $12 boutique beers, $13 wines by the glass and $15 cocktails from 4 pm until 6 pm. All best enjoyed under the setting sun, make the most of it while you can.
120 Commonwealth Avenue, Yarralumla | hyatt.com
Rizla (Braddon)
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With a cute little al fresco area in the heart of Braddon, Rizla is the perfect spot for outdoor dining without having to venture into the suburbs. Ask for a seat in the sun and choose from Canberra’s best new vintages and cellared Riesling and order yourself a premium cheeseboard to enjoy them with.
Unit 146 Mode3/24 Lonsdale Street, Braddon | drinkrizla.com.au
Heywood (Wallaroo)
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You’ll want to book ahead for this one because since its opening in 2023, Nick O’Leary’s restaurant and cellar door has become a popular dining experience. With vast views of the Brindabellas outside and a menu with a focus on paddock-to-plate, locally sourced ingredients, as a little bonus Heywood is family and dog-friendly.
149 Brooklands Road Wallaroo | nickolearywines.com.au
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