Where to eat in Canberra this winter: A food and dining guide

Canberra’s winter dining scene is thriving, with a mix of new openings and long-standing institutions drawing crowds despite the chill. This guide rounds up the best places to eat right now, from Civic’s bustling laneways to Braddon’s hip eateries and Kingston’s waterfront precinct.

New arrivals and old favourites

The past few months have seen several notable openings. In the city centre, the team behind the popular Mu Omakase has launched Kita, a Japanese-inspired izakaya on Bunda Street, offering small plates and sake flights from $45 per person. Over in Braddon, Lazy Su continues to draw queues for its Asian-fusion dumplings and bao buns, with a lunch special running weekdays until 2:30pm.

Kingston’s waterfront remains a reliable bet. Ottoman Cuisine on Trevillian Quay serves Turkish meze and grilled meats in a setting that feels a world away from the concrete of the parliamentary triangle. Meanwhile, The Boat House on Grevillea Park has just introduced a winter tasting menu at $95 a head, featuring slow-cooked lamb shoulder and roasted root vegetables.

For those after something more casual, the Fyshwick Fresh Food Markets are open seven days, with stalls selling everything from hand-made pasta to artisan cheese. The market’s Pasta Della Casa counter does a brisk trade in fresh ravioli at $12 per kilo.

Warm up with these winter specials

Several venues are leaning into the season with dedicated winter menus. Rizla, a cocktail bar in Civic’s Garema Place, now offers a hot toddy and mulled wine selection from 4pm to close. Morks Modern Thai in Kingston has launched a Winter Warmer set menu at $55, including a red duck curry and a dessert of sticky rice with coconut ice cream.

The Canberra Wine House in Braddon is hosting a series of Winter Wine Dinners every Thursday night through August. Each dinner pairs five courses with matched wines from local vineyards, priced at $120 per person. Bookings are essential, and the next event on July 20 features wines from Lake George Winery.

For families, The Jetset Southern Cross Club in Woden has a winter kids-eat-free deal on Sunday lunches, with one free child meal per paying adult. The club also runs a regular Roast of the Day special on Sundays for $18.

In the suburbs, BentSpoke Brewing Co in Braddon continues to serve its award-winning pale ales and seasonal stouts, alongside a menu of burgers and wings. The brewery’s Winter Warmer Stout is back on tap from July 15.

Whether you’re after a fine-dining experience or a quick bite, Canberra’s winter dining scene offers plenty of options to explore. Many venues recommend booking ahead, especially on weekends, and keeping an eye on social media for last-minute cancellations and walk-in availability.