Every restaurant, cafe and bar that’s opened in Canberra in 2026 (so far…)
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Over 70 new eateries have landed in Canberra since the start of this year. And we know there are more on the horizon. What is going on with this city’s appetite?
Twice a year, we pull together our ultimate guide to every new dining spot in town – and twice a year, we’re floored by just how fast Canberra’s food scene is expanding. Is it overwhelming? Absolutely. Are we complaints-free and thoroughly fed? 100 per cent.
Even by our standards, 2026 has been a monster year for new openings. From hidden precinct bars to suburban hidden gems, here is the ultimate, precinct-by-precinct guide to everywhere new you need to eat right now.
CITY
Fricken. Credit: Ben Calvert.
Easy Oar (Acton)
Taking over the space that housed Cafe Sosta at The Red Shed on Lake Burley Griffin, Easy Oar is all about slow mornings, fresh plates, good coffee and food that’s made to be grabbed and shared.
Go along just to try the speciality drinks, which include Tiramisu Matcha, Salted Maple Mont Blanc and Erewhon Smoothies dupes. Hello, Canberra version of Hailey Bieber Strawberry Glaze Skin!
45 John Cardiff Close, Acton | @easyoarcafe
Devil You Don’t (Acton)
Taking over the subterranean space that once housed High Jinks, Devil You Don’t might be Canberra’s coolest new bar.
From the team behind award-winning speakeasy Volstead Repeal and popular cowboy bar Peacemaker Saloon, Devil You Don’t is all about making classic cocktails elevated using modern techniques. When it comes to food, you can find a small, curated menu.
Basement 2/15 Edinburgh Avenue, Acton | @devil_you_dont
Ujin Matcha House (Civic)
Canberra’s first Matcha Specialty Store opened in the city in Januaray, and if you haven’t been yet, consider this your sign. Selling 1,200 matchas in the first two days of opening, they also sell hōjicha, taro and Thai milk lattes. Make sure to try the cakes and desserts – who can resist yuzu mousse basque cheesecake?
64 Northbourne Avenue, City | ujin-matchahouse.com.au
Yo Bar (Civic)
A premium self-serve frozen yoghurt and açaí experience, Yo-Bar was founded in Melbourne in 2023 and has quickly become one of Australia’s fastest-growing dessert brands – and it’s now open in the Canberra Centre!
Frozen yoghurt lovers can look forward to a highly customisable experience with 10 bases and over 60 toppings to choose from – including warm sauces, lollies and seasonal fruit. There will also be vegan, gluten-free, kosher and halal-friendly options!
148 Bunda Street, City | yobar.com.au
Fricken (Civic)
What started as a family fried chicken recipe served around the dinner table has become Fricken’s biggest and most ambitious venue yet, with the Canberra-born brand opening a flagship store at Canberra Centre.
Serving everything you know and love, it’s also home to what Fricken believes is Australia’s first fully gluten-free self-serve frozen yoghurt bar!
Shop FG09, Bunda Street, City | fricken.au
Stacked (Civic)
All about seriously stacked sandwiches, Stacks is the sandwich and coffee bar that’s taken over Matt Moran’s &Sando. Promising sandwiches that are higher than your standards and serving Single O coffee, Stacks follows the same business model as &Sando with minimal changes to the original look or feel.
Serving a sando combo to suit most moods, all you need to do is choose between fresh or toasted and let the team load up a takeaway box for you.
148 Bunda Street, City | @stackscbr
Curiosa (Civic)
Transforming Matt Moran’s Italian bistro Compa into a wine bar, Curiosa offers a casual, pared-back menu you’d likely find in a hole-in-the-wall Italian Enoteca, like beef and pork meatballs and arancini.
With a focus on local region wines, pop in for a drink and stay for the Basque cheesecake with Amarena cherry.
148 Bunda Street, City | curiosa.com.au
Hunter and Barrel (Civic)
Hunter and Barrel opened its doors in the former Carlotta space in the Canberra Centre this year, bringing flame-grilled steaks, barrel-aged spirits and relaxed hospitality.
On the meat menu you’ll find everything from Portoro Grain Fed 200 gram Eye Fillets (MB2+) to 700 gram Black Diamond T-Bones, and 300 gram Wagyu Rumps and Rib Eyes (MB6 or 4+), all levelled up with an optional Bone Marrow Topper and cooked over a coal fire. For non-meat eaters, there’s plenty of options featuring seafood and vegetables!
20 Scotts Crossing, City | hunterandbarrel.com
7 Cutz (Civic)
Taking over the former Botswana Butchery site, this restaurant has South African flavours and outlets in Newcastle and Wollongong (and was previously known as Meat and Grain Steakhouse).
All meats are grilled on an open flame, and all protein is served with chips and house salad. 7 Cutz has seafood options, but we’ll warn you: vegos will leave a tad hungry apart from a selection of salads or sides.
148 Bunda Street, City | 7cutzsteakhouse.com.au
Suchi’s (Civic)
Craving Japanese comfort food? Dishing out ramen, rice bowls, sushi and more, Suchi’s is all about fresh, filling and fast food. From crispy karaage bites to teriyaki chicken served with fluffy rice and signature sushi rolls, they’re only open during the week – perfect for a casual work lunch.
143 London Circuit, City | suchis-baileys.com
Toli Ramen (Civic)
Ramen lovers, prepare those chopsticks because Toli Ramen is here to take your taste buds straight to the streets of Japan. Believing that a great bowl of ramen must begin with a broth made from scratch, they do just two things, and they do them well: Shio and Shoyu ramen.
Using premium local poultry and Japanese dried ingredients (think: bonito flakes, kombu and more), you won’t find heavy, milky tonkotsu here.
Unit 7 &8 City Walk, City | @toli_ramen
Big Z’s Halal Fried Skewers (Civic)
Those looking for fast Halal options in the city don’t have to go far – Cabramatta’s Big Z’s Halal Fried Skewers has opened next to Lukumades.
Serving so many skewer options it’s almost not funny; they promise an authentic and unforgettable street food taste. Load your skewers with your choice of juicy meats and fresh veggies, choose your spice level and enjoy.
Ground Floor, Canberra Centre, City | @bigzfriedskewers.cabramatta
Hanoi Holic (Civic)
The menu of Hanoi Holic has us drooling. Along with a Vietnamese salted iced coffee, here you’ll also find bánh mì (including a brekkie version with eggs and pork), bún and fresh rice paper rolls.
33 Allara Street, City | @hanoiholic.canberra
Back Lane Bird (Civic)
Canberra’s late-night food scene is now a whole lot tastier thanks to Back Lane Bird, a hole-in-the-wall chicken window.
Brought to life by the team behind Molly, VICE, Amici, Highball and 88mph, the concept is simple: A window. Fried chicken. 9 pm to 3 am, Thursday through Saturday. No fuss, no frills – just exactly what you want to be eating when a big night calls for something substantial.
Odgers Lane, City | @backlanebird
38 Katsu (Civic)
If you fell in love with 38 Katsu when it opened in Verity Lane, you’ll be stoked to hear their new shop can be found near Betty’s Burgers on Bunda Street.
Expect a diverse menu showcasing various types of Katsu, a beloved Japanese dish featuring breaded, deep-fried meats or vegetables.
Shop FG07/148 Bunda Street, City | @38katsu.cbr
Bella Pizza CBR (Braddon)
There’s a new pizza spot on Lonsdale Street and it’s worth knowing about. Bella Pizza CBR specialises in Neapolitan-style pizza, made with 24-hour fermented dough that produces a thin base with a light, fluffy crust.
Their pizza chef brings over 10 years of experience across some of Canberra’s best-known pizza venues (including Solita, Mama Dough, Pizza Artigiana and Rosa’s), and the menu includes flavours like basil pesto and sautéed mushrooms, Italian sausage and zucchini, and garlic king prawns with smoky chorizo.
17 Lonsdale Street, Braddon | @bella_pizza_cbr
Monster | Phin & Street Bites (Braddon)
There’s a new spot to add to your Braddon coffee crawl, with Monster | Phin & Street Bites bringing Vietnamese-inspired flavours, slow-dripped phin coffee and casual street food to Batman Street.
The menu leans into classic Vietnamese favourites, from bánh mì and rice vermicelli bowls to fresh rolls and coffee creations including Vietnamese iced coffee, salted coffee and phin brews.
Shop G06/2 Batman Street, Braddon | monsterfry.square.site
MUGII (Braddon)
The Japanese food wave continues with the opening of MUGII on Lonsdale Street. Joining the diverse dining area, this new restaurant is bringing refined ramen, rice dishes and small plates to the area.
Located near Supersweet Cafe and Senn Noods, it looks like a fresh take on one of our favourite cuisines. The only question is what will you try first?
Unit 10/27 Lonsdale Street, Braddon | @mugiiact
MAKC (Braddon)
Also known as Mama Africa Kitchen and Cake, MAKC is Canberra’s first Nigerian kitchen and eatery.
Here, dishes lean into bold, layered flavours: tomatoes, peppers, onions, warming spices, smoked fish, and slow-cooked meats. At MAKC, all meat is halal, and the menu draws on recipes the owner Dorcas has been perfecting for family and events for years. Think: Jollof Rice, Swallows, Egusi Soup, and more.
G02/2 Batman Street, Braddon | @eatmakc
Braddon Café & Liquor (Braddon)
What’s not to love about a one-stop shop for coffee and craft beers? Braddon Café & Liquor can be found on Ainslie Avenue and is stocking beers, wines and spirits, as well as coffee and pastries.
Pop in seven days a week to pick up some curated sips and fresh bites.
G10/45 Ainslie Avenue, Braddon | @braddon_cafe_bottleshop
INNER NORTH
Lava Coffee in Campbell. Credit: Collections From Him.
Cafè Luzon (Lyneham)
From the team behind Northside Garden Café comes Cafè Luzon. Moving into the previous home of popular inner north cafe Hide and Seek, Cafè Luzon serves a blend of Filipino and Western food along with ONA coffee. Go along for unique options like pan desal served with ube cheese mousse, Turon French toast and a Pork Tocino sanga.
2 Colville Street, Lyneham | @cafe_luzon
Shahi Mandi & Biryani (Dickson)
It’s not hard to guess what Indian/Arabian Shahi Mandi & Biryani specialises in.
Open seven days a week from 2 pm until midnight, the menu here is overflowing with mandi and biryani – from their Chicken Mandi Plate to a 5 kg bucket of Mutton Biryani (you read that right).
76/2 Cape Street, Dickson | @shahigroup62
101c Hotpot (Dickson)
Hotpot fans, meet your new happy place. 101c Hotpot in Dickson is serving up all-you-can-eat hotpot for just $49 per person, giving you 100 minutes to eat your fill.
Choose from six soup bases (the Szechuan chilli is not for the faint-hearted), then load up on everything from fish roe dumplings and beef meatballs to thick noodles and thinly sliced meats.
There’s even a dessert buffet waiting at the end, and kids under 1.2 metres eat free. One tip: wear a dark shirt.
6 Cape Street, Dickson | @101chotpot
Ambi’s Chai (Dickson)
Ambi’s Chai might have closed its doors at ANU, but that doesn’t mean it’s the end for the popular chai bar. It actually means a new beginning. Bringing its legendary chai and rotis to Dickson, the store has now relocated to Cape Street!
Serving a menu that brings together vibrant East African and Punjabi flavours, along with Afro-Punjabi-style chais, we predict it will be a popular new addition to the area.
Shop 4/6 Cape Street, Dickson | ambischai.com.au
Sliceria (Campbell)
Chef Hem – Canberra’s world-ranked pizza maestro – has brought his cult Sliceria to East Traders Hall. The Campbell Sliceria is Chef Hem’s fourth venture – after Pizza Artigiana, the original Sliceria in City West, and his Hem and Co van by the lake.
By day, Sliceria is all about Roman-style pizza al taglio: rectangular slices, cut to order, designed for grabbing on the go. Things switch to big, foldable 22-inch New York-style pizza by the slice and whole 14-inch pies come dinnertime.
62 Constitution Avenue, Campbell | sliceria.com.au
Lava Coffee (Campbell)
This is a destination for serious drinkers and the coffee menu reflects that, with not only a solid coffee list but “Surprising Sips” of Espresso Tonic (yuzu and fresh citrus, elderflower, strawberry and lime) A Bulletproof Vegan (double espresso, MCT oil, cacao butter, maple syrup and almond milk) and the Hoffman Shakerato (double espresso, Angoustura bitters, Earl Grey syrup, shaken over ice).
Meanwhile, what’s coffee without a substantial breakfast and lunch menu? Go try it for yourself.
62 Constitution Avenue, Campbell | lava.coffee
Lager House (Campbell)
Lager House is a purpose-built destination dedicated to the art of lager, bringing together precision brewing and elevated yet approachable food in a space that’s been designed to feel like a ‘local’.
Along with tank-fresh seasonal lagers, the drinks menu boasts a curated line-up of Capital favourites and rotating small-batch releases, along with local wines and classic cocktails. As for the food? Think coal-cooked meats and seafood, vibrant vegetarian dishes and snacks designed for drinking, alongside classic pub favourites done properly and priced well.
62 Constitution Avenue, Parkes | capitalbrewing.co
WORLD (Campbell)
Taking over a sun-drenched corner of the new East Traders Hall on Constitution Avenue, WORLD is the newest addition to the Chairman Group’s iconic restaurants. The menu is culturally diverse and different, including options like gluten-free French galettes, a Reuben Banh Mi, Oatmilk Ramen and Curry Tsukemen for breakfast and lunch.
As for dinner? Steak and Frites is Korean-style Galbi striploin with ssamjang, there’s a Tom Yum pasta, a Pork Sausage dish with satay sauce, and Mapo Eggplant with whipped tofu and doubanjiang (a spicy Chinese paste).
62 Constitution Avenue, Campbell | @worldeatery2026
Tikka Stand (Russell)
Those working in the Department of Defence better loosen their belts, because Tikka Stand has rolled into Blamey Square to bring their delicious Indian street food to the area.
Open from 11 am until 3 pm daily, they’re serving all their iconic dishes. Your lunch break just got a serious upgrade.
Blamey Square, Russell | tikkastand.au
BELCONNEN
EASY BOY! Credit: Ash St George.
EASY BOY! (Belconnen)
EASY BOY! is Benn and Mork Ratanakosol’s latest project – and it’s something of a homecoming for them. Following the success of Mínima in Yarralumla, the decision to open a new venue in Belconnen was inspired by their own family history – their parents ran the original Morks there between 2008 and 2013.
Taking over the former Muku Ramen Bar site at Scullin Shops, the menu is mostly Vietnamese with broader Southeast Asian influences, and there’s already a waitlist for bookings.
5-9 Scullin Place, Belconnen | @eat.easyboy
Gianni’s (Belconnen)
A neighbourhood Italian from one of Canberra’s most trusted restaurateurs, Gianni’s opened in February 2026 to much excitement from locals. Founded by Gianni Guglielmin – who has built a loyal following for Briscola in the city – Gianni’s transports diners straight to the streets of Italy.
Described as Briscola’s “cool younger sibling” – bigger, brighter, and with more of a suburban feel – the menu is familiar and features iconic dishes that have made Briscola so successful (including the tiramisu).
1/59 Cameron Avenue, Belconnen | giannisitalian.com.au
The Meat House Buffet (Belconnen)
You’ve had Korean BBQ, and you’ve had Japanese BBQ, but have you had Chinese BBQ? Now open at the Capital Food Market in Belconnen, The Meat House Buffet is serving up Chinese BBQ meats, hot dishes, cold dishes, fruit, and desserts.
All you need to do is load up your plate with protein and fresh vegetables, head back for noodles, fried rice, stir-fries, soups and all the sides and mix up your own dipping sauce before cooking it all yourself. Don’t forget to try one of the Asian jelly desserts!
14/10 Lathlain Street, Belconnen | meathousecbr.com.au
Ground & Graze (Belconnen)
Belconnen, you have a new brunch spot. Ground & Graze has opened on Grazier Lane to serve you brunch seven days a week. The menu includes ONA coffee, eggs Benedict, crispy chicken burgers, bacon & egg rolls and more.
Unit 7, 6 Grazier Lane, Belconnen | @groundngraze
Oishiigo (Belconnen)
Technically opening in December 2025, we’re including Oishiigo here because it was 2026 when they introduced dessert nights, extending their trading hours until 10 pm. Besides, what’s a month’s difference in the scheme of things?
Serving croffles, bingsu and matcha, some must-try treats include the Thai Milk Tea Bingsu and the Omatcha (a combination of Oreos and matcha). Grab your dessert buddy!
10 Lathlain Street, Belconnen | @_oishiigo
Krispy Kulcha & Sweets (Bruce)
Authentic Amritsari Kulcha and Punjabi street food has come to Bruce with the opening of Krispy Kulcha & Sweets.
Serving what they describe as “classic Punjabi comfort food meets Aussie fusion”, here they specialise in Kulcha – a type of buttery and flaky bread similar to naan. Traversing both the traditional and the modern, they also serve staple North Indian dishes (yes, including butter chicken).
Unit 52/11 Thynne Street, Bruce | krispykulchasweets.com.au
Hungry Beagle (Giralang)
Newly opened in Giralang, locals will be sure to love this pizza and pasta bar with pizzas cooked in a full electric oven and pasta handmade fresh daily. Brekkie options are also on offer!
72 Canopus Crescent, Giralang | hungrybeagle.com.au
Evoke Bakery (Spence)
Northsiders, you’re in luck. Evoke Bakery has officially opened its third Canberra location in Spence, joining its much-loved stores in Curtin and at Kippax Fair.
Expect the same flaky croissants, crusty sourdough, stacked focaccias and sweet treats that have earned the bakery its loyal following – best paired with a strong coffee and a slow weekend morning.
18 Glassey Place, Spence | @evokebakery
Deeks Health Foods (Weetangera)
Gluten-free foodies, this one is for you. Deeks Health Foods has opened in Weetangera, and they’re baking up a storm.
Known for their gluten-free and grain-free goodies (think: breads, pasta, pizza bases, biscuits and flours), the bigger facility means they can bake even more products. Order what you’d like online and pop in Monday to Friday between 7 am and 11 am to pick it up.
8 Weetangera Place, Weetangera | deeks.com.au
GUNGAHLIN
Credit: Freed.Me Gluten-Free.
Palmer’s (Gungahlin)
Located in the old Sirens site, this gastropub is all about hearty, well-priced and well-executed food. Think elevated pub food, more sophisticated than simply pizza or schnitzel, and presented on the plate to impress.
As for dessert? A White Chocolate Crème Brûlée, Chocolate Fondant, or Sticky Date Pudding should cover off most sweet cravings.
30 Anthony Rolfe Avenue, Gungahlin | @palmerscbr
Freed.Me Gluten Free Bakery (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
AKALUCK Restaurant (Gungahlin)
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
Zeus Street Greek (Gungahlin)
Serving bold and fresh Greek food that’s as healthy as it is delicious, here Gungahlinites can order flame-grilled pitas, nourishing bowls, fresh salads, pilaf rice, and home-made dips.
It might not be quite the same as eating your way through the Greek islands, but it’s a close second.
Marketplace Gungahlin, 30-33 Hibberson Street, Gungahlin | zeusstreetgreek.com.au
KOKORO (Gungahlin)
Say ‘kon’nichiwa’ to KOKORO. Now open on Hibberson Street, pop in for sushi, maki, bento boxes, udon, donburi and more.
It’s open Monday to Saturday for both lunch and dinner and Sunday for lunch only, and it’s as close to Tokyo as you can get without actually booking a holiday.
2H/46-50 Hibberson Street, Gungahlin | @kokoro.gungahlin
INNER SOUTH
L’epi at Mountain Creek Wholefoods. Credit: Andrew Ly.
Tusa (Barton)
Barton is now home to Tusa – a fine dining restaurant with a very interesting story. Opened in the space formerly housing both Vincent and Mukbar, it’s delivering “nouveau” Nepalese cuisine to a city known for embracing the joys of multicultural eating.
The original Tusa is nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas in Nepal and has drawn the attention of the world’s top food writers, from the New York Times to Conde Nast Traveller.
48 Macquarie Street, Barton | tusanepal.com
Zeus Street Greek (Manuka)
Zeus Street Greek is now bringing its fresh and flavoursome food to the inner south, taking over the space previously home to Wok Me.
Open from 10 am until 10 pm seven days a week, they’ll be serving up everything you know and love – from Yia Yia’s Chips to the Tzimmy pita wrap.
18 Flinders Way, Griffith | zeusstreetgreek.com.au
L’Orange Patisserie (Manuka)
Recently relocating to ‘The Lawns’ in Manuka, L’Orange Patisserie is a haven for francophiles with a sweet tooth.
Known for fresh madeleines, roule cannelé, eclairs, and French macarons, you can linger over a fresh cup of coffee and a mille feuille for a memorable and pleasurable experience.
The Lawns, 4/19 Bougainville Street, Griffith | lorangepatisserie.com.au
Duck and Goose (Manuka)
Taking over the space left by L’Orange Patisserie, Duck and Goose is a new cafe in Manuka Court. Expect to find an array of sweet and savoury Turkish treats.
Manuka Court, Manuka
Contentious Character (Kingston)
Contentious Character has made Kingston the newest spot for local and international wine tasting and purchasing with the opening of an urban winery overlooking the lake. And because what’s a drink without a nosh, they’ve also opened an accompanying restaurant to bring a casual wine bar vibe and tapas-style snack venue to the area.
Unit 156/45 Eastlake Parade, Kingston | contentiouscharacter.com.au
Eve (Kingston)
If you love Queenies in Kingston, you’re going to want to hear about this. Owner Pamela Howarth has opened Eve just a few doors down on Giles Street – and where Queenies is casual and comforting, Eve is the creative, elegant sister.
Expect fine-dining flavour without fine-dining stuffiness with Filipino-inspired dishes on a regularly changing blackboard menu, and a vegan degustation option. Like Queenies, Eve is entirely gluten-free.
34 Giles Street, Kingston | eveatkingston.com.au
L’epi at Mountain Creek Wholefoods (Griffith)
Known as Griffith’s sanctuary for wellbeing, Mountain Creek Wholefoods has been serving the local community with organic wholefoods for over 40 years. But now the Canberra institution has a new lease on life.
Recently purchased by the duo behind L’epi Bakery and Crust at the Fyshwick Markets, there’s now a small bakery café attached to the store.
14 Barker Street, Griffith | mountaincreekwholefoods.com.au
Asteri (Swinger Hill)
Here the menu reads like a love letter to the Aegean: grilled octopus, garlic prawns, prawn saganaki, moussaka, pastitsio, keftedes, plus pizza, pasta and mezze for the table.
With relaxed Greek taverna vibes, a calendar of events including bouzouki street parties and Souvlaki Saturdays, and a sunny outdoor area that – on the right afternoon – could almost convince you you’re somewhere in the Greek islands, it’s well worth a visit.
10/84 Ainsworth Street, Mawson | facebook.com/astericanberra
The Aegean Pantry (Fyshwick)
Not only is the Aegean Pantry home to shelves lined with the best imported ingredients Greece has to offer, but it also boasts a comprehensive Mediterranean salad and coffee bar serving Greek hot dishes (made fresh daily).
Think Pastitsio (Greek-style lasagna), Vegetarian Moussaka, Lemon Garlic Chicken and Plaki (oven-baked fish over vegetables and lemon potatoes) as well as a Greek-themed sandwich bar. You simply must try it.
Fyshwick Fresh Food Markets, Shop G21/36 Mildura Street, Fyshwick | @aegean.pantry
WODEN & WESTON CREEK
Eddie’s Organics. Credit: Georgie Smith.
Adore Tea (Woden)
Adore Tea Teahouse & Boutique has opened in a brand-new Phillip location, becoming the latest hot spot for lovers of exquisite teas and tea-infused sweets and savouries.
Offering the full menu – including favourites like the tea-infused quiche, scones with tea-infused jam and clotted cream, and wraps with tea-infused chicken, it looks set to replicate the formula that earned its Mitchell boutique such a loyal following.
Shop 3/2 Furzer Street, Phillip | adoretea.com
Nepalese Momo House (Woden)
Nepalese fare has taken over the well-known Gemini Café on Furzer Street. The menu is simple and traditional, built around steamed, fried, and chilli-tossed momos. And if you’re chasing something warming, order the jhol momos – served submerged in a deeply aromatic, spiced tomato and sesame broth that carries just the right amount of kick.
G08/35 Furzer Street, Phillip | facebook.com
Kinn Thai (Woden)
Cue the cheers of southsiders everywhere.
Now open in Woden, Kinn Thai serves up authentic Thai flavours (and the dishes you love from the city location), find them on Level 1 near HOYTS.
Westfield Woden, Shop 83B/2 Keltie Street, Phillip | kinncanberra.com.au
Dober Tek (Phillip)
Find Dober Tek in the Slovenian Club. Here they serve honest, home-style food, with a menu packed with dishes like chicken and chorizo gnocchi, Slovenian kransky and apple strudel.
12 Irving Street, Phillip | dobertekbistro
The Pour House (Phillip)
Phillip has a new local, and it’s serving everything from 7 am coffees to stacked haloumi burgers. The Pour House is dishing up all-day breakfast favourites like smashed avo, big brekkies and protein smoothies, alongside light meals including chicken caesar salads, chilli prawn pasta and loaded wraps.
There’s self-roasted coffee on pour, fresh juices, milkshakes and a cabinet full of house-made sweets – think: orange syrup cake, cannoli and banana bread.
2/57 Colbee Circuit, Phillip | @thepourhouse_espresso
Eddie’s Organics (Pearce)
Built on great coffee, wholesome organic food and product, Eddie’s Organics has a whimsical charm to it. Expect hand-picked antiques, op shop treasures, and in-house bakes that make you feel like you’re in a rom-com movie montage.
Behind it all is Eddie, whose warm and generous energy has earned him a loyal following across every place he’s ever worked. We’re already planning our next visit.
Shop 1A, 70 Hodgson Crescent, Pearce | @eddiesorganics.cbr
Our Little Café (Deakin)
Looking for a new coffee spot? Our Little Café has opened on Geils Circuit, serving ONA coffee, freshly made sandwiches and pastries from Wildflour.
Open Monday to Friday from 7.30 am, pop in for your next weekday caffeine fix.
39 Geils Court, Deakin | @ourlittlecafedeakin
The Weston Bull (Weston)
Taking over the space previously home to The Meating Room, the Weston Bull has opened in Weston Creek.
Keeping the casual pub atmosphere and focusing on doing food ‘very well’, the menu ranges from classics like chicken schnitzel served with salad and chips to options like pork and chive dumplings.
But it’s the signature 1.5kg Tomahawk steak that has people talking. Served with bone marrow butter, brandy jus, and duck fat potatoes, and designed to be shared, it’s literally the size of a table.
45 Liardet Street, Weston | westonbull.com.au
Sticky Rice (Weston)
Opening in the place of Baitong, this restaurant is owned by the family behind Ping Ping Thai in Kambah. Serving up casual regional Thai and Laotian comfort food, go along to try dishes like house-made northern Thai sausages, Laos-style sun-dried beef, and classic sticky rice dishes.
Shop 13, Cooleman Court, Brierly Street, Weston | stickyricewestoncreek.com.au
La Veera (Lyons)
Lyons has a new local! Open seven days a week, at La Veera you’ll find classic Australian breakfast and lunch staples with modern, flavourful twists – think Japanese pancakes with free-range poached eggs, and panini house roll with fried egg, Spanish chorizo, cheddar, hash brown, and chilli sauce. With some good vego and vegan options, there’s something for everyone.
Shop 1/9 Lyons Place, Lyons | laveera.com.au
High Society (Torrens)
Meet your new favourite Southside brunch spot. You can find High Society at Torrens shops, and it’s a total vibe with sun-drenched outdoor seating, a menu with dishes that look pretty but taste even better, and creative, colourful iced drinks.
Add it to your list!
1/24 Torrens Place, Torrens | @highsocietycafe_torrens
TUGGERANONG
Credit: Nash & Smashed.
Tuggeranong Kebabs (Tuggeranong)
Kebabs, HSP, pide, and more – that’s what you can find at Tuggeranong Kebabs. Perfect for a quick and comforting meal when you just can’t be bothered cooking, they’re open from 10 am until 9 pm. Find them opposite Bunnings at the bottom of SQ1.
311 Anketell Street, Greenway | @tuggeranongkebabs
Nash & Smashed (Tuggeranong)
Halal Nashville hot chicken, smashed burgers, and shakes. You can find all this and more in Nash & Smashed’s first Australian location: South.Point Tuggeranong.
With over 20 locations open across the USA, this chain is known for its crispy hand-breaded chicken sandwiches, juicy smashed burgers, loaded fries, tenders, wings, shakes, and more. The portions are big, the flavours are bold, and yes – there is Mac & Cheese on the menu.
210 Anketell Street, Greenway | nashandsmashed.au
Phat Panda x Dessert Lab (Tuggeranong)
Have a sweet tooth? You’ll want to know about this.
As well as building your own custom creations, you’ll also be able to sink your teeth into deconstructed fried ice-cream, custard Taiyaki bites, and crispy saba banana spring rolls. The sugar high will be worth it.
Shop 175A, 210 Anketell Street, Greenway | @phatpandadessertlab
Sabrina Gelato (Tuggeranong)
South.Point has a new gelato bar! Located just across from Burrito Bar, here you’ll find plenty of sweet scoops – ranging from classic favourites to irresistible new flavours.
Also offering a wonderful selection of additional sweet treats and specialty items, pop in for your next dessert-themed date night.
G-20/210 Anketell Street, Greenway | @sabrina.gelato
OUT OF TOWN
Credit: Eleven on Monaro.
Eleven on Monaro (Queanbeyan)
House-made tiramisu, bolognese arancini, and pappardelle ragu… Eleven on Monaro is serving up authentic Italian food in Queanbeyan.
Focusing on simple dishes made using quality ingredients, the extensive menu spans pastas, pizzas and all the classic Italian mains you know and love.
11 Monaro Street, Queanbeyan | elevenonmonaro.com.au
Aranya Acres (Wamboin)
Opening on the site that formerly housed Contentious Character (just 30 minutes outside Canberra in Wamboin), Aranya Acres focuses on “quintessential native flavours”, exploring the intersection between Australian native ingredients and the country’s multicultural heritage.
Also featuring a range of local, national and international wines and champagnes, we haven’t even mentioned the champagne, martini and oyster trolley.
810 Norton Road, Wamboin | aranyaacres.com.au
COMING SOON
Credit: Ben Calvert.
Bocca by Frankie B’s and Oh My Papa (Civic)
Civic’s Bunda Street is entering a new era – and foodies will be in a froth. The Canberra Centre has unveiled a major dining transformation, with a wave of new openings, relocations and fresh concepts set to reshape the popular dining strip.
Keep an eye out for Bocca by Frankie B’s (which promises generous, share-friendly Italian dining) and Oh My Papa – a multi-level venue with a rooftop bar, high-energy dining and late-night vibes.
148 Bunda Street, City | canberracentre.qicre.com
Hecho en Mexico (Civic)
Hecho en Mexico is opening at the Canberra Centre in the former Fonda Mexican space on Bunda Street!
With the opening date to be announced, keep an eye out.
Shop FG10/148 Bunda Street, City | hechoenmexico.com.au
Bar Nova (Kingston)
Bar Nova is set to open this month, taking over the space left vacant by Louis Couttoupes’ award-winning Onzieme after it ceased service in May.
With the opening details to be confirmed, keep an eye out!
Corner of Kennedy Street & 39 Kennedy Street, Shop 5 Eyre Street, Kingston | @barnova.cbr
Little Sutton Bakehouse (Deakin)
After turning a country bakery into one of Canberra’s favourite gathering places on the outskirts of the city, Little Sutton Bakehouse is opening a second location in Deakin!
Taking over the space that was home to Locale Pizzeria, you’ll be able to get your hands on Little Sutton’s signature sourdough, gourmet pies, baked goods and country-style cakes during the day. Then, in the evenings (from September onwards), you can set your hungry sights on fresh-fired pizza.
Shop/5 Hopetoun Circuit, Deakin | @littlesuttonbakehouse
Image of EASYBOY! by Ash St George, Pew Pew Studio
