Best new places to eat and drink in Canberra

Updated 10 Dec 2024

When it comes to new and exciting food and drink offerings, Canberra delivers in spades.

Canberra’s food and drink scene is buzzing with new venues popping up and promising to elevate your dining and drinking experiences. From cosy cafés to unique restaurants and vibrant bars, the city’s latest venues are making waves. Whether you're a coffee connoisseur, a fan of innovative cuisine, or someone who enjoys a classic hearty meal, these newly opened spots are worth getting on your radar.

Cafés

Café Sosta

A new spot in Yarralumla, Café Sosta brings a touch of Italian sophistication to your daily coffee ritual. This café is a perfect blend of comfort and class. Whether you’re stopping by for a morning pick-me-up or a relaxed afternoon coffee, Café Sosta offers a welcoming environment and a delectable menu to match.

Recess Coffee

From the creative minds behind Terra and Barrio, Recess Coffee has made its debut in the inner-south suburb of Griffith. This all-day dining spot is not just about the coffee—though their house-roasted beans are a standout feature. Think old-school breakfast classics as well as a solid lunch menu including wagyu rump steak, a charcoal roasted porchetta sandwich, and a potato and leek soup with truffle and goat cheese.

Good Neighbour

From the owners of the beloved, now-closed Gus’ Café in the city centre comes Good Neighbour in Kingston, a new hotspot that’s quickly gaining popularity for its delicious breakfast, brunch, and lunch classics. Joining the current matcha trend, Good Neighbour is standing out for its unique offering of iced strawberry matcha lattes, a rare treat in the café scene.

Restaurants

Yakitori 38

Inspired by the rustic, cosy bars of Osaka's nightlife, Izakaya-styled Yakitori 38 is located in the historic Melbourne Building in the city centre. If you’re usure where to start given the vast array of equally delicious options, we recommend the chef’s selection, which is perfect for any indecisive friends. The restaurant recently launched its new cocktail menu with something to suit every cocktail enthusiast’s palate.

Minima

Nestled in the heart of Yarralumla, Minima is an exciting new venue that delves into third-culture cuisine, blending Chinese and Southeast Asian influences. Founded by brothers Mork and Benn Ratanakosol, known for their award-winning, now-closed restaurant Morks, Minima brings to light their passion for innovative and heartfelt hospitality.

Azima

Azima offers a fresh take on Middle Eastern cuisine, right in the city centre, featuring a menu full of rich, aromatic dishes that celebrate bold flavours and traditional cooking methods. From share plates to sumptuous mains, Azima’s offerings are designed to be enjoyed with friends and family in a warm, inviting setting.

Med

A new contender in the fine dining scene, Med offers a menu inspired by Mediterranean flavours with a modern twist. Located in Barton, the restaurant’s emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients and artistic presentation makes it a standout choice for those looking to indulge in a culinary journey across the Mediterranean. Be greeted by a fusion of Greek, Lebanese and Turkish cuisine to tantalise your tastebuds.

Koto

Located at the new dining precinct The Lawns of The Lobby in Parkes, Koto offers an exceptional fine-dining journey for Japanese food enthusiasts. Emphasising fresh ingredients and traditional techniques, Koto's menu ranges from classic sushi rolls to inventive new dishes. The restaurant's stylish interior is a work of art in itself, making it a top choice for those who appreciate Japanese culture and cuisine.

Ballyhoo

Another restaurant joining Koto at The Lawns of The Lobby, Ballyhoo is set to impress. Led by beloved Canberra chef Dave Young, this new restaurant, due to open very soon, will offer laid-back, fun food with Mediterranean and South American influences.

Gaon Korean BBQ

If you’re craving Korean barbecue, Gaon Korean BBQ is the place to be. This restaurant offers a range of premium cuts and traditional Korean side dishes, allowing you to grill your own meats at the table. The vibrant atmosphere and flavourful dishes make it a must-visit for fans of Korean cuisine.

Bars

The Peacemaker Saloon

Step into The Peacemaker Saloon, a new establishment from the creators of the acclaimed Volstead Repeal. Located in Braddon, this bar combines American Southwest charm with a lively Canberra vibe. The Peacemaker Saloon offers a robust selection of fine Bourbons and Ryes, curated for both aficionados and newcomers.

Paloma’s

Adjacent to Hopscotch on the iconic Lonsdale strip in Braddon, this Mexican-inspired bar is perfect for embracing the warmer weather. Paloma’s serves relaxed Latin-style share plates, authentic Mexico City-style tacos, and, of course, palomas.