Top Family Restaurants in Canberra - Australian Traveller

Your go-to guide to Canberra’s best family restaurants, no matter the age of your kids.

After a long day seeing the sights, sit down for dinner at one of Canberra’s many family restaurants.

The nation’s capital is known for its dining scene and it’s good to know you can find a whole range of restaurants, cafes and food experiences that welcome little ones, tweens and teens to the table.

1. Wildflour Bakery

Canberrans take their leisure time seriously, and you will find many of them starting their weekend right by sitting down to breakfast at Wildflour Bakery . Expect a beguiling cast of locals consuming their body weight in artisan baked goods at this family-friendly Canberra institute, which has an undercover courtyard overlooking play equipment. This will keep the kids happy until their French toast and chocolate croissants arrive.

Take your pick between classic options like smashed avo on sourdough and more intriguing dishes such as ube pancakes. If you’re on the move, get caffeinated with a cup of ONA coffee and pick up paninis to go.

pastries and coffee at Wildflour Bakery, Canberra — Pick indulgent pastries and treats at Wildflour Bakery. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Address: 8 Townsville Crescent, Fyshwick ACT

2. Edgar’s Inn

While Ainslie locals love waking up with a coffee at Edgar’s Inn , they can also be found lingering at The Inn and Wakefield’s Bar & Wine. The two reimagined venues regularly rank on guides to the best places to have a drink in Canberra.

Edgar’s has been drawing families for decades thanks to crowd-pleasing options breakfast burgers and French toast. Order well off the lengthy menu; little ones will love the bite-sized kids pancakes, which come with either bacon or fruit and always topped with a generous dollop of maple syrup.

a table-top view of food, The Inn at Edgar's, Canberra — Dine flavourful meals at Edgar’s. (Image: The Inn at Edgar’s)

Address: 1 Edgar Street, Ainslie ACT

3. Agostinis

There’s a lot to take in at Agostinis , located on the ground floor of Canberra’s East Hotel. This family-run restaurant is always full of all ages due to its friendly waiters, and serious dedication to serving great Italian pizzas and pastas that will suit even the pickiest eaters.

It’s airy, light-filled dining room becomes moodily lit after dark, transporting you to Italy via delicious menu staples. Delight in polpette al sugo, slow-cooked Waygu beef mince and Italian pork sausage meatballs. Or try the capricciosa pizza with rosciutto cotto, mushrooms, artichokes and olives – it’s a crowd pleaser.

slices of pizza at Agostini’s, Canberra — Grab a slice of pizza at Agostini’s.

Address: 69 Canberra Avenue, Kingston ACT

4. Tiger Lane

The neon-bright signs pointing toward the Tiger Lane precinct in Canberra’s heart are hard to miss. Or simply follow the crowds of families and friends meeting up for shabu-shabu (Japanese-style hot pot) at Taki. Kids will love the interactive element of cooking food in the simmering hot pot.

Those with teens in tow can also head next door to Inari, which is a wonderland of fun led by so-called sushi shaman and Tiger Lane executive chef Shaun Presland. Also onsite is Mrs Wang, a contemporary take on traditional Chinese food, and Thai powerhouse, Supalove – as well as numerous take-away stalls for dinner on the go.

Inari, Tiger Lane, Canberra — Drop by Inari to meet sushi shaman, Shaun Presland.

Address: 148 Bunda Street, Canberra City ACT

5. East Row

Bring your Instagram-obsessed teenagers to East Row so they can refresh their social feed at this delightful Canberra cafe. With an ever-changing seasonal menu, you’ll be treated to the best produce the state has to offer. Choose from the all-day breakfast menu or opt for something from the lunch list.

Kids can choose from sweet and savoury dishes, including waffles, fish and chips and croissants. The contemporary cafe is housed in the revitalised Sydney Building and is full of hip locals who arrange themselves artistically on the apple-green banquettes.

Address: 101-103 London Circuit, Canberra ACT

6. CBD Dumpling House

You will get dinner and a show at CBD Dumpling House, as the chefs prepare thousands of dumplings a day in full view of their customers and passers-by.

This noted dumpling den – the go-to choice for everyone from fat-cat politicians to students – is a decidedly fun place to enjoy xiao long bao (Shanghai soup dumplings) until you pop. Kids love the ice cream with waffles, which arrive with a snowfall of sprinkles.

empty chairs inside CBD Dumpling House, Canberra — Pull up a chair at CBD Dumpling House. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Address: 148 Bunda Street, Canberra ACT

7. Verity Lane Market

In suitable weather, the laneway tables within the iconic Sydney Building maximise Canberra’s chilled hipster vibe. But, like most places in the country’s capital, Verity Lane Market is not too cool for school and you’ll get a warm welcome when it’s cold outside.

The street-food market has a convenient CBD location, where families can choose between vendors like Seoul Chicken, Rasa Rosa, Pizza Artigiana, Petite Saigon and La Cocina Pura.

Verity Lane Market in Canberra — Sit outside and enjoy a family meal. (Image: Verity Lane Market)

Address: 50 Northbourne Avenue, Canberra ACT

8. Brodburger at Capital Brewing

The original red caravan where Brodburger began is now housed in the family-friendly courtyard at Capital Brewing Co. It’s a wonderful place to stop in, as kids can run around outside while mum and dad watch on, sipping an on-tap brew.

The flame-grilled burgers are beyond brilliant. Grown-ups should get the bigger-than-your-head Deluxe stuffed with eggs, bacon, lettuce and onion. Over 10 of the caravan’s burgers come in a ‘Baby Size’ option, making it the perfect pit stop for hungry tummies.

Brodburger in Canberra — Many Brodburger bites come kid-sized, too. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Address: 3/1 Dairy Road, Fyshwick ACT

9. Snapper & Co

Sit outside at the Southern Cross Yacht Club in Yarralumla and enjoy the crisp Canberra air while the kids kick a ball around. As the name suggests, the eatery is right on Lake Burley Griffin and overlooks Black Mountain.

There are multiple venues on site, but Snapper & Co is a must at least once. Sit on the deck or in the courtyard and order some of the best fish and chips in the region, which arrive wrapped in a custom newspaper printed with dad jokes. What’s not to love?

Snapper & Co in Canberra — Sit down for some of the best fish and chips in the city. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Address: Mariner Place, Yarralumla ACT

10. Lazy Su

Teach your children to appreciate good food and retro-chic decor at Lazy Su in Lonsdale Street, where these two components collide to great effect. Watch the chefs cook up a storm, with dishes everyone seems to order like Wagyu beefsteak spring rolls, Japanese roast chicken and miso butter carrots.

Don’t look past the desserts either; the whole family will want seconds of the bubble tea crème brûlée. And at $15 a pop, why not? Families should arrive early for dinner at the Japanese-Korean-Americana eatery, as the place turns up the volume as the night progresses.

Chinese golden cats hanging on the wall at Lazy Su, Canberra — Kids will love the golden cats that adorn the walls. (Image: Lazy Su)

Address: 1/9 Lonsdale Street, Braddon ACT

11. Monster Kitchen & Bar

Have you got a few vegetarians in the family? Monster Kitchen & Bar is the in-house vegetarian restaurant at Ovolo Nishi and will have something to suit, regardless of how rampant a carnivore you are.

Expect generous portions, pretty plating and fantastic service. The restaurant has big windows looking out onto the leafy street, a statement chandelier and clubby panelling. In short, it has a rebellious, fun spirit that will please the pickiest of eaters.

Monster Kitchen at Ovolo Nishi in Canberra — Kids will love the parmesan churros. (Image: Ovolo Nishi)

Address: 25 Edinburgh Avenue, Canberra ACT

As the cooler weather rolls in, head to this popular Sunshine Coast destination to enjoy stunning natural beauty, culinary wonders and mild temperatures.

As southern Australia’s weather starts to cool – the frost visiting every morning and the evening chill descending at dusk – you might reach for your thickest cable knit sweater and warmest blanket. But why not reach for your suitcase and sunglasses and book a ticket to Noosa in winter instead?

Sure, it’s a favourite destination for sun-seeking summer travellers. But as locals will readily tell you, winter is the best time to uncover hidden gems across the region – not only is the weather mild and enjoyable, but the beaches and hinterland are picture-perfect, too. You might even spot a whale or two if you visit from June to September.

Discover how to spend your winter surrounded by Noosa’s stunning natural beauty.

Noosa Rivermouth And Main Beach — Make the most of mild temperatures of Noosa in winter.

Where to eat in Noosa

Known for its dynamic cuisine, Noosa is an overflowing foodie destination. Whatever your tastebuds fancy, the region has it covered.

There are the classic eateries, like lively beachfront Bistro C (try the caramelised pork belly), popular Season Restaurant on Hastings Street (order the spanner crab pasta) and stylish Locale (our pick is the slow roasted White Pyrenees lamb shoulder).

There are also chic new restaurants offering tasty dishes, like the Mediterranean fare at Pelis , Cantonese-inspired dim sums at Sabrosa , organic sourdough pizza from El Capitano , traditional recipes and tequila at Dona Cocina Mexicana and modern Italian-Australian creations from Lucio’s Marina .

diners at Lucio's Marina in noosa in winter — Taste modern Italian-Australian at Lucio’s Marina. (Image: Nickolas May)

Where to stay in Noosa

Once you’re full, you’ll need to find a place to lay your head, and Noosa has no shortage of accommodation options. From five-star resorts with palm-fringed lagoon pools to self-catered apartments and family-friendly budget options, stays in the heart of the action on Hastings Street to sleeping steps from the beach or in more spacious and relaxed accommodation along the river, Noosa offers something for everyone.

There’s the laid-back luxury of Netanya Noosa overlooking Noosa Main Beach, which offers studios, two- and three-bedroom apartments, or the family-oriented Ivory Palms Resort in Noosaville, with its three pools, jumping pillow and playground. Guests also love the versatile RACV Noosa Resort and its numerous pools, waterslides and tennis courts.

For a wildlife experience, hop on a ferry and travel to the eco-friendly Senses Noosa North Shore . Surrounded by 16 hectares of native bushland, the beautiful architect-designed property blends indoor and outdoor living and offers three stunning pools and a spa. Guests can even spot kangaroos and rainbow lorikeets from shaded verandahs.

a beachfront swimming pool at Netanya Noosa — Gaze over Noosa Main Beach at Netanya Noosa. (Image: Lumea Photo)

Things to do on land

There’s no denying it, the main beach – with its creamy-coloured sand, consistent breaks and epic coastline views – is Noosa’s shining star attraction. Bordering this is the wildly popular Noosa National Park, where you can explore over 15 kilometres of walking tracks, including options like the Coastal Walk, Tanglewood Walk and Palm Grove Walk.

A short stroll away is busy Hastings Street, which is full of life during the day and long into the night. Enjoy a little shopping, a late brunch, dinner out and a cocktail as the sun goes down.

Climb onto a fully electric tuk tuk with Noosa e-TukTuk to get an insider’s tour of the region. For a more in-depth exploration, book a bespoke tour with Joel’s Journeys and head to the lush green hinterland, or discover the rugged landscapes of Great Sandy National Park with Sunny Jeeps to spend the day with the wind in your hair and sand underfoot.

woman enjoying the view after hiking through Noosa National Park, noosa in winter — Take in views of the beautiful Noosa Hinterland. (Image: Demy Gavin)

Things to do in the water

Noosa isn’t just about the beach, the national parks and shopping; one of the most popular ways to embrace winter is to explore on water.

You could brave the waves on a surfboard, explore the languid Noosa River on a stand-up paddleboard or even head to the Noosa Everglades for a day adventuring on a boat, canoe or kayak.

Enjoy the winter sunsets aboard the newly launched HV Stillwater , a luxury, hybrid-powered catamaran that glides silently along Noosa’s waterways. You can also book a table on the only floating restaurant on the river – Noosa Cruiser – and dig into freshly cooked cuisine.

For a little more adventure, head out with Kingfisher Safari Co and cruise around the Noosa River Inlet and Lake Cootharaba. Or search for whales and dolphins (from June to September) on a small charter boat tour with WhaleSongs Noosa ; with an onboard researcher to explain what you’re seeing, as well as a hydrophone, you’ll be able to listen to the haunting songs of some of the world’s biggest animals while enjoying a winter’s day in the sun.

women kayaking through Noosa everglades noosa in winter — Explore the gorgeous Noosa Everglades. (Image: Emily Redfern)

Book your winter getaway in Noosa at visitnoosa.com.au.

The top 11 family restaurants in Canberra