Neighbourhoods to Know: Fyshwick, Pialligo & Majura

Barton, once known for its office blocks, is now one of the city’s hottest places to eat, with Vincent among those championing refined small plates and European wines. The Realm precinct, featuring Hotel Realm and Burbury Hotel & Apartments, with its rooftop bar Leyla, also helps make the National Circuit an after-hours hangout.

Stay in the Realm precinct for a meal at Cantonese restaurant Chairman & Yip and a nightcap at Ostani. In the AM, Maple + Clove pulls a weekend crowd with its nourishing smoothies and savoury spelt waffles. This cool concrete pocket of town is also an oasis of wellness: bliss out with a massage ritual at Mudd The Spa or book in for a high-performance facial at the nearby Hale Spa.

A 15-minute walk away, Manuka village sets a chilled pace. You could spend an afternoon browsing beloved bookstore Paperchain, shopping for fashion by labels such as Alémais, Trelise Cooper and Kitx at Momento Dezigns or reading the paper at Manuka Lawns, ducking in to Urban Pantry for a burger when the mood strikes.

Neighbouring Kingston mixes the modern with the historical. Kingston has its charm of heritage homes and Canberra Railway Museum but head down to the foreshore and you’ll find a vibrant mix of parks and eateries.

If you’re still around after sundown, wander into the backstreets of Kingston to discover its restaurants and bars, including Queenies  where they serve a “sweet and spritzy” Marilyn cocktail made with pink gin and rosemary, along with live jazz and an entirely gluten-free menu. A local crowd brings the good times.