Five fine dining restaurants for a special occasion in Canberra
Posted on
Candles, wine, and fine dining—there’s something about a classic dinner date that never goes out of style.
But if you think you’ve crossed all of Canberra’s fine dining destinations off your list (you can read our original one-minute guide here) and are stuck for ideas of how to celebrate, you’d be sorely mistaken.
As Canberra’s hospitality scene continues to grow, so does the opportunity to level-up your dining experience with some new venues opening their doors, and some old favourites introducing unique offerings—and while we know the cost of living is stressing many of us, some events deserve a unique celebration.
From more modern fare in vibrant venues to locations that will transport you to Europe, here are five suggestions to help you wine and dine your date in Canberra.
Louis
View this post on Instagram
Be transported from the hustle and bustle of the Parliamentary Triangle to France with Canberra’s newest fine dining darling—Louis. Helmed by none other than Aubergine’s Ben Willis (who needs no introduction to Canberra foodies) this is the perfect intimate date night destination with a menu that focuses predominately on European dishes, including Provencal cuisine.
And with interiors that also have a romantic, moody and distinctly European flavour (designed by Rachel Luchetti of award-winning Sydney-based architecture and interior design firm Luchetti Krelle), it’s both elevated and luxe, setting the bar for a memorable dining experience.
18 National Circuit, Barton | Open for dinner Monday to Saturday from 5 pm | louisdining.com.au
Such and Such
View this post on Instagram
From the team behind one of Canberra’s most acclaimed restaurants, Pilot, this modern city eatery ticks all the boxes if you’re looking for a generous drink and food menu in a fresh and vibrant space (just wait until you see the coasters).
Serving a mix of snacks, share plates, and larger portions as well as cocktails that lean towards the classics, we recommend choosing the Such and Such Set Menu. Not only is it delicious, but it offers you the chance to taste the team’s favourite dishes presented in a shared style over 10 courses. It’s a great conversation starter.
Constitution Place, 220 London Circuit, Canberra City | Open for dinner Monday to Saturday from 5 pm | andsuchandsuch.com
Peonee
View this post on Instagram
If you haven’t heard of Peonee, you’d be forgiven. A newbie on the fine dining scene (although owner Alberto Ranalli isn’t keen to label it as such), this restaurant opened in June to bring classically Mod Oz fare to Campbell in an approachable way.
Featuring a five-course set menu for evenings, with the option of matching wines or non-alcoholic beverages, what makes this venue so unique is there isn’t actually a formal menu—instead it will be constantly changing to hero native Australian ingredients and feature Asian flavours with a “foundation” of French cooking.
216/12 Provan Street, Campbell | Open for dinner Wednesday to Saturday from 6 pm | peoneerestaurant.com.au
Water’s Edge
View this post on Instagram
A one-hatted restaurant known for its Modern Australia food (that’s been served for more than 15 years), booking a table at Water’s Edge is a no-brainer when it comes to a special date night. But why not take it up a level and have your meal in an intimate dining dome?
Private, exclusive, and warm, watch the sunset over the lake and the stars come out as you and your significant other sip on the finest of Australian wine and eat your way through a decadent three-course dinner. The Five Spiced Paroo Kangaroo Fillet is a must.
40 Parkes Place East, Parkes (near Reconciliation Place) | Open for dinner Wednesday to Sunday from 5:45 pm | watersedgecanberra.com.au/dining-domes
The Boat House
View this post on Instagram
Established in 1993 by Dennis and Merilyn Souter, The Boat House boasts some of Canberra’s only truly waterfront views, with a commitment to fine dining that has earned it a reputation for making special events truly memorable. Now under the discerning eye of their son James Souter, The Boat House is a must for all Canberra foodies.
Grevillea Park, Menindee Drive | Open for dinner Thursday to Sunday | theboathouse.restaurant
Feature image: Louis. Credit: Romello Pereira.
