I’m moving overseas. Here’s what I’ll miss from Canberra’s food scene the most.
Posted on
I have to admit, I’m a bit nervous writing this article.
That’s because, across the course of my nine years (NINE?) at HerCanberra, I’ve been lucky enough to indulge in a fair chunk of Canberra’s exceptional food scene.
It’s not every day you get to eat some of the first food a kitchen makes upon opening, served by the chef, under the watchful eyes of the owner…but this is a privilege we’ve been lucky to experience many times.
It’s incredibly meaningful to be told the story of someone’s life in food and what influences have led them to this moment and this menu…and then be served those influences and history on a plate. Safe to say, there are so many fond memories I’ll keep with me for life.
So with that said, when our Online Editor Erin suggested I do my version of Jil’s great article before I moved abroad I thought…’But how can you possibly play favourites?’.
Well, by sticking to the basics, I think. As a lifelong Canberran I think I can say with some certainty what my favourite venues are for specific occasions – and what I’ll look forward to on my return trips home.
And because this will be published after I’ve flown the coop, I wanted to say a huge thank you to every chef, every cook, every restauranter, every bartender, every food photographer and every influencer I have met on this wonderful journey. Canberra’s food scene is amazing because you make it so.
For takeaway coffee
On weekends – any Redbrick establishment, especially Clay in Turner. And, on weekdays, our beloved Lil Brew downstairs from our NewActon office.
For a fun meal with friends before going out
I love Loquita in Garema Place or its neighbour, Bar Beirut. Both have great food and drinks but more importantly, they have a fun atmosphere with energetic staff who never seem to get pressed when the crowds are large.
Best weeknight dinner with friends
It’s got to be Rogane Chimac in Dickson (hands down the best Korean in Canberra), Verity Lane Market for the ease of choosing between a variety of different vendors or Pho Phu Quoc in Dickson for exceptional Vietnamese.
For managing dietaries
Akiba really set the standard in Canberra when it allowed its iconic Feed Me menus to be adjusted for any and all dietaries. Feed Me menus are designed to take the decision-making out of an elevated meal, so how wonderful is it when they can also take the stress out of balancing dietaries too? One person gluten-free, one dairy-free and one nut-free? Too easy.
For lunch in the city
Miss Van’s Banh Mi are beyond exceptional. Also, I will never pass up the chance to loudly declare in the office that I’m “getting off my cooch to get a dooch” AKA head to Sandoochie.
A weekend casual brunch
Under Bakery is great for Scandi-style buns (pro tip: if you can’t get a table, go to Redbrick Curtin as they also stock the buns) but if you’re looking for a sit-down brunch with all the trimmings, Gang Gang in Downer hits the spot and I always seem to end up at Dockside Cafe on the Foreshore. Good views, good coffee, good views.
Grabbing a drink in the city
Bar Rochford is always on these lists for a reason. I also love the airy interiors and relaxed atmosphere of Dear Prudence. Also, a wine next to the fireplace at Monster is never a bad idea.
For a fancy date night
Louis has the right mix of low lights and luxe food.
Where to take visiting family for a nice meal out
Brunch at Pollen at the Botanic Gardens is always a winner with interstate family or older relatives for the ease of parking, accessibility and also the fact you can book tables. Same goes for lunch at Two Before Ten Aranda.
For getting out of town
Casanova’s in Braidwood serves pizza and wine on a Friday evening and while it’s clearly designed for locals, it’s perfect timing for Canberrans hustling down to the coast for the weekend too.
What I’ll be trying when I return
Minima. I’m sad I didn’t get there before I left, but Mork and Benn are the nicest humans ever and I can’t wait to dine at their newest venture.
Summer spot that never fails to impress
Last summer I had many dinners at Cartel Taqueria in Queanbeyan and it was always a great night. Family loved it, friends loved it, the sunsets were glorious and the food generous and tasty.
What I’ll miss eating along the coast
If you’re in Bermagui, you can’t miss the pastries and bread at Honourbread (make sure to try the Morning Bun), Boneless for exceptional brunches with a billion-dollar view and the Bermagui Gelati Clinic because… self-explanatory.
Feature image: Akiba, via Facebook
