Best Bars in Canberra 2026 — Top Pubs & Venues

Canberra Pubs and Bars 2026 — Overview

Canberra's bar scene has grown significantly with the city's population and the development of Braddon, New Acton and the Kingston Foreshore precincts. The ACT government's liberalised liquor licensing from 2010 onwards catalysed a small bar revolution similar to Perth's. Here's a guide to Canberra's best pubs and bars in 2026.

Braddon

• Hopscotch — Lonsdale Street, Braddon. Canberra's most popular craft beer bar with 16 rotating taps. hopscotch.bar
• Molly — Lonsdale Street, Braddon. Natural wine and cocktail bar adjacent to the cafe strip.
• Smith's Alternative — West Row, Canberra CBD. Canberra's beloved bohemian venue — live music, politics, poetry and excellent craft beer.

Kingston Foreshore

• The Dock — Kingston Foreshore. Waterfront pub with Lake Burley Griffin views. Excellent pub food and an outstanding selection of craft beer. Very popular on sunny afternoons.
• Edgar's Inn — Corner Eyre and Tench Streets, Kingston. Popular Kingston pub with good craft beer selection.

New Acton and City

• Mocan and Green Grout — New Acton Nishi building. Wine bar with excellent cocktail menu and Art-Deco character.

Craft Beer and Breweries

• BentSpoke Brewing Company — 38 Mort Street, Braddon. Canberra's most acclaimed craft brewery — excellent IPAs, seasonal releases and a lively brewery bar. bentspoke.com.au
• Capital Brewing Co — 6 Dairy Road, Fyshwick. Popular Canberra craft brewery with a large outdoor beer garden. capitalbrewing.co

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