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Smith's Alternative

Band onstage at Smith's Alternative in front of an audience
Band onstage at Smith's Alternative in front of an audience

Overview

Smith's Alternative is a cafe and art gallery by day, with fine coffee, teas, in-house baked treats, and hand-made toasted sandwiches.

By night it's a cosy bar and performing arts cafe, with a good selection of wines, beers, cider, the odd cocktail and events most nights. Including all genres of music, comedy, poetry, cabaret, burlesque, performance art, anything that Canberra's and the world's creative community throws up, they'll host it.

Open from midday till at least 9pm (later if there's a gig on, which there usually is!) every day.

76 Alinga St, Melbourne Building, Canberra City, Australian Capital Territory, Australia

TripAdvisor Traveller Rating

TripAdvisor ratingBased on 30 reviews

“Alternative and nicely entertaining”

TripAdvisor ratingReviewed 1yr ago by MelibeeB

The Smith's Alternative is a really great bar! Varied and underground concerts, quality shows, the performance hall and decor are original, welcoming and comfortable Quality products served (eating...

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“The Ukulele Man - A fabulous rendition of George Formby's fabulous career”

TripAdvisor ratingReviewed 1yr ago by StephenR285

We went to Smiths to watch a show called the Ukulele Man. It was the first and only performance in Canberra prior to debuting at the Sydney Fringe Festival and it was excellent. A few first night...

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“Alternate- Yes”

TripAdvisor ratingReviewed 3yrs ago by Wollundry

Good coffee, pleasant staff. Lots of quirky objects occupying different spaces. The band playing was Gypsy Jazz styled on the Django sound of the 30's- 40's. Small venue, right up close to the...

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Facilities
  • Bar
  • Entertainment
  • Family Friendly
  • Gallery / Museum
  • Live Music
  • Non Smoking
  • Outdoor Dining Area
  • Pet Friendly - Enquire
Cuisines
  • Bistro/Cafe/Deli
Wine Prices
  • Between $20 and $40
BYO Licences
  • Fully licensed
Restaurant Prices
  • Under $20