Canberra Fine Dining Restaurants Worth Splurging On

Canberra is fast becoming one of the top foodie destinations in Australia, with a wealth of fine-dining restaurants to choose from.

Once known as merely the capital of Australia city, Canberra has proven critics wrong over the past decade, fast becoming known for its thrumming hive of creative, unique restaurants and, in particular, a fine dining scene to rival that of Sydney and Melbourne.

A visit to Canberra would not be complete without splurging on one of the many luxury dining experiences the city has to offer. From modern European cuisine to Japanese-style feasts, these are the best fine dining restaurants in Canberra.

1. Mu

a fresh oyster on a stone plate at Mu, Canberra — Dine on seafood in style. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Using the Japanese dining experience of Omakase (which translates to ‘leave it up to you’), at Mu you won’t be selecting your dishes – rather, the chefs create 11-course menus inspired by what produce and ingredients are best on the day.

Dining is tasting style, with plates starting with lighter fare and moving on to heavier courses. Premium sake pairings are available to really make a night of it, too.

Bookings go fast, so it’s worth locking down a spot in advance – there are two sittings between Tuesday and Thursday at 6pm and 7pm, with Friday and Saturday sittings at 5:45pm and 8pm.

Cuisine: Japanese

Atmosphere: Immersive

Address: 1 Constitution Avenue, Canberra ACT

2. Corella Restaurant & Bar

the cosy seating inside Corella Restaurant & Bar, Canberra — Settle in for a set menu complemented by a cosy ambience. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Corella Restaurant & Bar may only be a few years old, but it’s already renowned as one of Canberra’s best fine dining restaurants.

Inspired by native Australian flavours and ingredients, expect fresh fare and a cosy ambience, with good service and an extensive wine and cocktails list. Whether it’s date night or just dinner with friends, Corella is the perfect place to pop in.

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Atmosphere: Neighbourhood intimacy

Address: 14 Lonsdale Street, Braddon ACT

3. Pilot

a degustation-only menu at Pilot, Ainslie — Take delight in Pilot’s gastronomic menu. (Image: VisitCanberra)

This intimate 24-seater in Ainslie is all about experience. You won’t have to worry about fussing over a bunch of options and picking between two (or more) delicious dishes. The menu here is set, taking the onus off you and letting you sit back, relax and enjoy your meal.

There’s the $105 lunch menu, $150 Pilot menu and, if you want to splash out, the $195 extended menu. Each features an array of fresh produce with seasonal additions, plus a selection of Australian beverages. Pilot is a true hidden gem, and once you find it (hint: it’s tucked behind the local shops), you’ll be coming back for more.

Cuisine: Modern Australian with a quirky twist

Atmosphere: Immersive

Address: 1 Wakefield Gardens, Ainslie ACT

4. Capitol Bar & Grill

a gourmet dish at Capitol Bar & Grill, Canberra — The dishes at Capitol Bar & Grill are to die for. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Many of Canberra’s best hotels also house some of the city’s best fine dining restaurants. The QT Canberra is a perfect example, where you’ll find Capitol Bar & Grill . Local ACT and NSW produce is the hero on its extensive menu, which favours wood-fired grills and fresh ingredients.

Known for its prime meat cuts, it’s no surprise the steak is to die for, arriving cooked to your liking and perfectly juicy. You can also order fresh seafood and sides to enjoy, as well. Order a Canberran varietal from the carefully curated wine list by Sommelier Ashleigh Smith.

Cuisine: Modern Grill

Atmosphere: Vibrant

Address: 1 London Circuit, Canberra ACT

5. Monster Kitchen & Bar

Chances are, if you’re relatively across Canberra’s fine dining scene, you’ve heard of Monster Kitchen & Bar . A cavernous, moody space at Ovolo Nishi, Monster has long been known for its intriguing dishes and creativity.

Once 100 per cent plant-based, Monster is now “an omnivore", as their website puts it, with seasonal dishes share-style, like golden fried calamari with chilli and fennel salt, and steak frites with rich, creamy Paris butter. Don’t fill up too much though, the dessert options are also to die for.

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Atmosphere: Moody & cool

Address: 25 Edinburgh Avenue, Canberra ACT

6. Courgette

a gourmet dish at Courgette, Canberra — Courgette is a staple of Canberra’s high-end food scene.

Fine dining at its most classic is found at Canberra institution Courgette . Think opulent dining rooms, crisp white tablecloths and an intimate, unhurried experience, with modern European cuisine and premium wines.

Open for both lunch and dinner, Courgette is the perfect place for your next special occasion. You can dine via a three-course a la carte menu, a five-course degustation or the extensive, 100 per cent vegetarian degustation.

Cuisine: Modern European

Atmosphere: Sophisticated and refined

Address: 54 Marcus Clarke Street, Canberra ACT

7. Raku

the fine dining interior of Raku, Canberra — Delight in refined Japanese plates. (Image: VisitCanberra)

If you’re looking for the best Japanese in Canberra, head to Raku . Known for its sushi and sashimi dishes, you can sit around the central workspace and watch chefs deftly slice your fish before it reaches your plate.

Order your dishes individually or choose from one of two tasting menus, priced between $120 and $170. If you’re in town on a weekday, you can get the less leisurely (but equally as delicious) experience with their $60 express menu. Go the extra mile and order something from the wine or dessert menus; perhaps both. Raku also has a dedicated gluten-free menu with extensive options.

Cuisine: Japanese

Atmosphere: Upscale

Address: 148 Bunda Street, Canberra ACT

8. OTIS

a truffle dish at OTIS — Indulge in truffle decadence at OTIS. (Image: VisitCanberra)

OTIS technically aligns itself with ‘fine-casual’ dining. Still, with head chef Damian Brabender’s stellar CV filled with Michelin-starred London restaurants and acclaimed Aussie resorts, OTIS will give you the fine dining experience you’re seeking.

The menu here is fresh, creative and seasonally-led, and all guests share the same selections. Choose from either the classic three-course menu, or the extensive degustation, then go all-out with paired wines for a truly luxurious experience.

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Atmosphere: Relaxed

Address: 29 Jardine Street, Kingston ACT

9. Rubicon

Cosy, private and surprisingly laid-back, Rubicon is a Griffith icon, and well worth a visit if fine dining is your love language. The contemporary Australian restaurant has a menu packed with flavour, like cognac prunes and pistachio-stuffed pork fillet, and Canadian scallops with bacon jam.

We love Rubicon’s layout – four intimate dining rooms that offer seclusion and romance.

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Atmosphere: Intimate

Address: 6A Barker St, Griffith, ACT

10. Wilma

food and drinks on the table at Wilma, Canberra — The menu at Wilma leans into Southeast Asian and Chinese cuisines. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Classifying themselves as a “progressive Asian BBQ that is fun and approachable", you can probably guess that a visit to Wilma is about having a good time. The menu is broken up into small and large plates, with a heavy emphasis on the grill, like wood-roasted John Dory with charred lime and the “Wilma Snag Sanga", which is absolutely nothing like what you might pick up at a kid’s footy game.

Cuisine: Asian BBQ

Atmosphere: Fun

Address: 1 Genge St, Canberra, ACT

11. The Boat House

the fine dining interior of The Boat House, Canberra — The award-winning fine diner delivers stunning waterfront views. (Image: The Boat House)

Sometimes, fine dining is really about the atmosphere, and The Boat House delivers on this and then some. Tucked away inside Grevillea Park and overlooking Lake Burley Griffin, the Modern Australian menu is sourced impeccably, with barramundi from the Northern Territory’s Humpty Doo region, pork from NSW’s Northern Rivers and Sydney rock oysters to chow down on.

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Atmosphere: Bright and outdoorsy

Address: Grevillea Park, 7 Menindee Drive, Barton, ACT

12. Water’s Edge

Speaking of atmosphere, another Lake Burley Griffin jewel in the fine dining scene is Water’s Edge, one of Canberra’s most famous restaurants with arguably the greatest view. Topping TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Awards three years in a row, the menu options celebrate Australian produce and change with the seasons, plus you can expect special occasion menus, so it’s a great choice for celebrating.

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Atmosphere: Classically refined

Address: Grevillea Park, 7 Menindee Drive, Barton, ACT

The wild, otherworldly beauty of The Grampians offers a perfect place to unwind, slow down and relax.

Not all holidays yield the same result; some are bustling, with endless things to do, events to book and places to see. All great things, but they leave you feeling more tired than before. Then, there are destinations that help you slow down, making real connections and participating in self-care.

Destinations like The Grampians : surrounded by untouched nature, allowing a chance to reconnect with yourself and loved ones at a slower pace.

Discover six science-backed ways to enjoy a holiday and feel restored at the end of it.

1. Practice mindfulness

Hamilton Gallery, the grampians — Be present at Hamilton Gallery. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Mindfulness – the practice of tuning into the present moment – has been found to help in reducing stress, anxiety and depression. One way to practice this art is by immersing yourself in art.

Hamilton Gallery has been in operation for over 60 years, and is not only home to many significant art pieces but also runs workshops and events for all ages to expand their awareness and understanding of art. The gallery is also the custodian of the largest collection of Gunditjmara artefacts held on country.

If you prefer to practice mindfulness through movement, visit Halls Gap Zoo to feed the meerkats – who wouldn’t feel better after focusing on these little guys? Or visit The Grampians Horse Riding Centre for an unforgettable morning ride through 10 kilometres of bushland. Enjoy the soothing movement of the horse and experience the bush anew.

2. Indulge in self-care

two people swimming in the Venus Baths, the grampains — Take an immersive bath in nature on the Venus Baths loop walk. (Image: Visit Victoria)

While the term self-care might conjure up images of indulgent bubble baths or a soothing massage, there’s more to it than pampering. Self-care is any action that protects your physical, emotional and mental well-being.

Like taking an immersive ‘bath’ in nature. Do just that on the Venus Baths loop walk – ideal for less experienced hikers or those walking with kids – stopping at freshwater-filled rockpools to cool down along the way.

Serious hikers (we’re talking some rock hopping and traversing slippery tracks) can tackle the Wurgarri, or Mount Sturgeon walk, which rewards the effort with panoramic views from the summit.

For those whose idea of self-care leans more towards arts and culture, a visit to WAMA is a must. Australia’s first national centre for environmental art is home to exhibitions that explore the natural world through film, installation, painting, performance and more.

3. Embrace nature

Boroka Lookout, the grampians — Soak in incredible views over Halls Gap at Boroka Lookout. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Spending time in nature is the ultimate way to soothe your body and mind. It’s been proven to help with all manner of things, from reducing stress to boosting cognitive function. And there’s no better place to enjoy it than among the raw sandstone, wildflowers and native creatures of The Grampians.

Rocklands Reservoir, spanning 6700 hectares, is an ideal spot. Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the view over Grampians National Park. Cast a line, hire a canoe or follow nature trails along the water’s perimeter. How’s the serenity?

To appreciate nature’s imposing power, head to Splitters Falls. Here, find unrivalled tranquillity. Spring is the best time to visit, when bouquets of native spring flowers greet visitors.

Those with limited mobility will appreciate Boroka Lookout, a viewing platform surrounded by breathtaking views over Halls Gap and the eastern Grampians. Come early to witness a sunrise you’ll never forget.

4. Prioritise Rest

outdoor bathtub at Nook On The Hill — Recharge at Nook on the Hill. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Above all else, a holiday should be an opportunity to recharge, and there’s no better way to do it than to get a good night’s sleep. We don’t need to tell you how essential sleep is, for everything from mental health to strengthening the immune system.

Try Wanderlust Glamping , where guests fall asleep to the soothing sounds of nature after an evening relaxing around the fire pit and wake to your very own green oasis.

For pure luxury in the foothills of the Grampians National Park, look no further than Nook on the Hill – a handcrafted tiny house surrounded by rewilded, lush native Australian bush. It might be small, but Nook on the Hill has everything needed to unwind in style, including an outdoor bath for balmy nights.

For a modern farm stay, book at Mount William Station in the foothills of The Grampians. The station combines old-world charm with modern amenities and easy access to everything this region has to offer.

5. Engage Your Senses

Salingers Cafe, destinations that help you slow down — Indulge in a meal at Salingers. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Few human senses are as fun to indulge in as taste. A meal at Salingers in Great Western is the ultimate treat, and not only for the taste buds. The food is excellent, but Salingers’ really unique attraction is the bustling beehive that lives within the walls of the historic building.

For an expertly smoked burger, ribs, or beef brisket, head to Flame Brothers in Halls Gap. Tuck into delicious food while you enjoy the view.

If you prefer your senses heightened by the pump of adrenaline, Grampians Soaring Club offers an eagle-eye view of the Grampians National Park and Pyrenees Ranges from a glider. Take in the sights with a cross-country flight, ridge soar, or altitude wave flight.

6. Connect and reconnect

The Dimboola Imaginarium, Wimmera Mallee victoria — Step into the whacky Dimboola Imaginarium. (Image: Denis Bin)

Making shared memories is a wonderful way to reconnect with old friends or make new ones. These unexpected finds make it easy to discover something new in The Grampians.

Amateur geologists will delight at the Kanawinka geotrail, which covers 60 sites over Australia’s most extensive volcanic province. Visit the Penshurst Volcano Discovery Centre to learn more about volcanic activity in The Grampians, or head to nearby Mount Napier State Park for a trip into the Byaduk lava caves.

Pop in to the Ros McArthur Art Studio to peruse the gardens full of native and exotic plants and flowers that serve as the subjects of Ros’s still life paintings.

For a shopping experience like no other, head to the Dimboola Imaginarium . Far more than a shop, the Dimboola Imaginarium is an immersive experience where you’ll find all manner of quirky bits and pieces. Expect the unexpected.

Put these science-backed holiday benefits to the test during a trip to The Grampians. Plan your peaceful getaway at visitgrampians.com.au.

12 fine dining restaurants in Canberra worth splurging on

Canberra is fast becoming one of the top foodie destinations in Australia, with a wealth of fine-dining restaurants to choose from.

1. Mu

2. Corella Restaurant & Bar

3. Pilot

4. Capitol Bar & Grill

5. Monster Kitchen & Bar

6. Courgette

7. Raku

8. OTIS

9. Rubicon

10. Wilma

11. The Boat House

12. Water’s Edge

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Your guide to feeling rested and reconnected after your holiday

The wild, otherworldly beauty of The Grampians offers a perfect place to unwind, slow down and relax.

1. Practice mindfulness

2. Indulge in self-care

3. Embrace nature

4. Prioritise Rest

5. Engage Your Senses

6. Connect and reconnect