Your foodie guide to Gungahlin
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Lakeside lunches and hidden gems: these are the Gungahlin eateries worth adding to your must-try list.
Gone are the days when Gungahlin was simply Canberra’s fastest-growing suburb. Over the past decade, the town centre and surrounding neighbourhoods have transformed into one of the capital’s most exciting dining destinations, packed with everything from authentic Japanese ramen and Cantonese comfort food to French pastries, Nepalese street food and family-friendly breweries.
Whether you’re after a quick lunch, a long lakeside dinner, or a sweet treat to finish (or start) the day, there’s no shortage of delicious discoveries waiting in Canberra’s north.
Here’s where to eat the next time you’re in Gungahlin.
Ikigai Ramen
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Inspired by a life-changing bowl of ramen discovered during a trip to Tokyo, Ikigai Ramen brings authentic Japanese flavours to the heart of Gungahlin. After years spent perfecting recipes, Head Chef Anj created a menu centred around rich broths, quality ingredients and comforting bowls designed to warm the soul.
The cosy restaurant, designed by her father Joe, feels just as inviting as the food itself.
43 Hibberson Street, Gungahlin | instagram.com/ikigairamen
Caffè al Lago
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Overlooking the waters of Yerrabi Pond, Caffè al Lago has quickly become a favourite for locals seeking quality coffee and exceptional sandwiches.
Owner Dragan, a third-generation baker, spent years perfecting the schiacciata and focaccia used in the café’s signature panini. Filled with Italian-inspired ingredients like prosciutto, provolone, spicy salami and fresh mozzarella, the sandwiches are reason enough to visit, while the lakeside location makes it easy to linger a little longer.
60A Phyllis Ashton Circuit, Gungahlin | instagram.com/caffeallago
Le Bon Mélange Café Pâtisserie
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Bringing a taste of Europe to Canberra’s north, Le Bon Mélange is beloved for its handcrafted pastries, artisan breads and exceptional coffee. Drawing inspiration from traditional French baking while adding contemporary twists, the pâtisserie has become a destination for pastry lovers across Canberra.
If you’re constantly searching for the perfect croissant, many locals will tell you you’ve found it here.
G09/48 Gungahlin Place & Bruning Street, Gungahlin | lebonmelange.com.au
AKALUCK Restaurant
One of Gungahlin’s newest lakeside dining spots, Akaluck Restaurant serves authentic Thai cuisine in a welcoming setting on Phyllis Ashton Circuit.
From fragrant curries and stir-fries to classic Pad Thai and roast duck red curry, the menu showcases traditional Thai flavours made with carefully selected ingredients.
Friendly service and a genuine passion for hospitality make this a standout local gem.
Ground floor/76 Phyllis Ashton Circuit, Gungahlin | facebook.com/Akaluck
Mirchi Indian
Just minutes from the Gungahlin town centre, Mirchi Indian has quietly built a reputation as one of Canberra’s favourite spots for authentic Indian cuisine.
Operating since 2008, the family-run restaurant specialises in Northern Indian dishes while also featuring flavours from Southern India. Known for their generous portions, rich curries and excellent value, it’s easy to see why locals have kept this secret to themselves for so long.
4 Riley Close, Ngunnawal | mirchingunnawal.com
Hing Win Wanton and Claypot Rice
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Located inside Marketplace Gungahlin, Hing Win Wonton and Claypot Rice specialises in authentic Cantonese comfort food.
House-made prawn wontons are the star attraction, delivering delicate textures and rich flavours in every bite. Alongside the wontons, diners will find crispy claypot rice, sizzling steaks and a range of classic Hong Kong favourites that make this a perfect spot for lunch or dinner.
Shop H39, Marketplace Gungahlin, 33 Hibberson Street, Gungahlin | facebook.com/Hing-Win-Wonton-Claypot-Rice
Cypher Brewing Co.
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Craft beer, live music, family-friendly dining and a playground for the kids: Cypher Brewing Co. ticks all the boxes. Conveniently located right near the light rail, the brewery pours 14 beers brewed onsite and regularly experiments with new styles and flavours.
Pair your drink with classic pub fare, settle in for a live gig, or enjoy one of the local wines, spirits and house-made cocktails on offer.
Unit 3 & 4 / 35 Hinder Street, Gungahlin | cypherbrewing.com
CocoNine
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With beautiful lake views and a menu packed with authentic Thai flavours, CocoNine has become a local favourite for special occasions and relaxed dinners alike.
Popular dishes include Hokkaido scallops, grilled king prawns and rich massaman curry, while the traditional homemade Thai desserts offer something a little different to finish the meal.
Warm service and a welcoming atmosphere make it easy to understand why the restaurant has such a loyal following.
Unit 3/45 Gungahlin Place, Gungahlin | coconine.com
Chatkazz
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Bringing vibrant Indian flavours to Gungahlin, Chatkazz is known for its extensive vegetarian menu and colourful street-food-inspired dishes. From Indo-Chinese favourites to traditional Indian classics, the menu celebrates the diversity and richness of Indian cuisine.
Operating on a walk-in basis only, it’s the perfect spot for a casual meal when a craving strikes.
The Market Place, Level 1, Shop H70-71 Hibberson Street, Gungahlin | chatkazz.com
Ginger and Spice
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For those craving traditional Chinese dining, Ginger and Spice offers a warm and welcoming experience complete with ornate décor and a menu packed with favourites. From dim sum and Peking duck to noodles, rice dishes and seafood specialties, the restaurant has long been a favourite among local families.
The combination of attentive service and authentic flavours keeps diners returning time and again.
110 Hibberson Street, Gungahlin | gingerandspice.com
Noi Noi Vietnamese
Offering both traditional and modern Vietnamese cuisine, Noi Noi Vietnamese Kitchen has become a go-to destination for pho lovers in Canberra’s north.
Customer favourites include the Special Beef Pho, crispy Roasted Pork Belly Rolls and fresh banh mi, while the menu also features Vietnamese pancakes, rice dishes and a growing range of new specials.
Whether you’re after a quick lunch or a hearty dinner, there’s something for everyone and it’s bound to be a new favourite.
Gungahlin Place East, Gungahlin | facebook.com/Noi-Noi-Vietnamese
Canberra’s Momo House
If you’ve never explored Nepalese cuisine, Canberra’s Momo House is the perfect place to start.
Known for its authentic momos (bite-sized dumplings), flavour-packed curries, and traditional Nepalese dishes, the restaurant showcases Nepal’s rich culinary traditions.
From street-food favourites to hearty rice and dhido sets, every dish delivers bold flavours, comforting spices and the true taste of Nepal.
106/89 Gungahlin Place, Gungahlin | facebook.com/Canberra-Momo-House
Ogawa
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Small in size but big on flavour, Ogawa has earned a reputation as one of Canberra’s favourite Japanese restaurants.
The menu features everything from fresh sashimi and sushi to hearty katsu dishes and warming bowls of noodles. With an open kitchen and intimate atmosphere, it’s an excellent choice for a casual lunch or relaxed dinner.
102/54 Ernest Cavanagh Street, Gungahlin | ogawacanberra.com
Moo Moo Frozen Yogurt
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Whether you’re rewarding yourself after dinner or looking for a fun outing with friends, Moo Moo Frozen Yogurt delivers a sweet experience that’s entirely customisable.
Choose from an ever-changing range of frozen yogurt flavours before loading up your cup with fruit, cookie crumbles, brownies, edible cookie dough, sauces and popping boba.
With vegan, dairy-free and gluten-free options available, there’s a treat for everyone.
Shop 31, 30- 33 Hibberson Street, Gungahlin | moomoofrozenyogurt.com
Bento Tei
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Bento Tei is a long-time favourite among Gungahlin locals. Bento Tei combines traditional Japanese cuisine with creative fusion influences.
The signature bento boxes allow diners to mix and match mains alongside rice, salad and dessert, while the menu also includes sushi, ramen and unique fusion creations.
Offering something for every member of the family, it’s a reliable choice no matter the occasion.
Shop H44/30 and 33 Hibberson Street, Gungahlin | bentotei.com
Freed.Me Gluten Free Bakery
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A new addition to Gungahlin, Freed.Me is a haven for gluten-free foodies. Only open on Saturdays from 8 am until 2 pm, here you’ll find gluten-free artisan bakery products that are also clean, nourishing, and inclusive.
Ranging from bread to pastries, go early because they always sell out.
G10/4 Gribble Street, Gungahlin | @freed.me_gf_bakery
Grease Monkey
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This is a Canberra institution. Go for a Greasy’s burger, fried chicken, hot wings or Detroit-style pizza and stay for a wine, beer, cocktail or milkshake.
Shop 63/33 Hibberson Street, Gungahlin | greasys.com.au
Sunday in Canberra
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A local favourite since 2017, Sunday in Canberra is known (and loved) for quality coffee, creative brunch dishes and a warm community atmosphere.
Serving breakfast and lunch daily, go for dishes like pistachio French toast, mushroom arancini eggs and ricotta hotcakes.
54 Ernest Cavanagh Street, Gungahlin | sundayincanberra.com.au
Marketplace Gungahlin
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We’ve already mentioned a few, but Marketplace Gungahlin is home to some amazing places to eat. Zeus Street Greek, Betty’s Burgers, Atlas, Espresso Room, Lagom and Mr Pasta are just some examples of what you’ll find.
Our advice? Go hungry!
Hibberson Street, Gungahlin | marketplacegungahlin.com.au
