This Is Canberra

A TRAVELLERS’ GUIDE TO DINING, NIGHTLIFE AND SHOPPING

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ll too often, this city is defined by the intrigues of the nation’s decision makers as they go about the business of governing. It goes without saying that Canberra was created to facilitate Federal Government and to accommodate the museums and monuments that define the nation, and this is the image that most Australians have of their capital. While it is true that this city has been planned to be the mantle piece of the nation, it is refreshing to discover unique precincts that have developed spontaneously to offer diverse experiences.

There are great places to eat—from the best in fine dining to quick and inexpensive bites—and many places to have a drink and unwind. Or if you are in need of a little retail therapy check out the unique local businesses that offer everything from great fashion and jewellery to gifts and home ware. Treat this book as your personal guide and you will soon be navigating this city like a local.

Alex Tricolas, Editor.

issn 1835-8640 (formerly known as Beyond The Hill) Š 2009 Australian Tourism Publishing Pty Ltd Publisher

Australian Tourism Publishing Pty Ltd

PO Box 3583 Manuka ACT Australia 2603

Tel +61 2 6295 5991 Fax +61 2 6295 5988

info@tourismpublishing.com.au www.tourismpublishing.com.au

Editor

Alex Tricolas

Creative Director Benjamin Zosanga Thomas Original Photography Benjamin Zosanga Thomas

Alex Tricolas Graphic designer Benjamin Zosanga Thomas Feature writer

Alex Tricolas

Additional editorial contributions

Kathleen Fisher Katherine Tricolas

To view this book online with additional downloadable content visit:

www.t his is c a nb e r r a . c o m . a u Editor's Note: You may notice that a particular leafy herb is referred to on many occasions throughout this book and that it is spelled in three different ways. This is not merely lazy copy editing. Instead, where no preference has been indicated, the editor has chosen to utilise the Anglicised spelling of rocket. However, where a restaurateur has voiced an unwavering preference for either the French or the fence-sitting hybrid, we have humbly acquiesced, as all three are correct.

All original photography and editorial in this publication is copyright to Australian Tourism Publishing Pty Ltd and is for the sole purpose of appearing in this publication, its companion website, or any relevant promotional material the publisher sees fit to distribute. All original content, including any part thereof, produced by the publisher for this publication remains the property of the publisher and is not available for sale or lease and may not be used in any other context by any other entity. All images and other content supplied by the advertisers is credited where it appears and is used with permission from the respective copyright holder/s.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the copyright owner.

All editorial in this publication is intended for promotional purposes. Every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this book is accurate and as current as possible at the time of going to press. All listing information has been supplied by the advertisers and may change over the course of the publications life span. The publishers do not accept responsibility for any harm or loss arising from the reliance on any content in this book.

contents

this is canberra 2009

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I'm looking for ...

Japanese cuisine

Pub Grub

Wasabi............................................... 76

All Bar Nun....................................... 40 Debacle............................................. 38 Edgar’s Inn......................................... 50 King O’Malleys................................ 119 Mooseheads..................................... 110 Sub Urban......................................... 42 Tongue & Groove............................... 24 The Uni Pub.................................... 108

Middle Eastern cuisine a CafÉ Babar Café & Bar............................... 30 Cream Café & Bar............................. 26 E.U. Café.......................................... 98 Fuel Café & Bar................................. 64 Gus’ Café........................................... 22 Kitschen............................................. 36 My Café............................................. 80 Tosolini’s Ristorante........................... 20 Verve Café & Bar............................... 78 The Wine & Cheese Providore.......... 74 Chinese cuisine China Plate........................................ 18 Ginseng............................................. 70 Madam Woo...................................... 90 Ruby Chinese Restaurant.................. 44 Sammy’s Kitchen............................... 28 a Family restaurant La Rustica Trattoria........................... 84 Le Rendezvous................................... 66 Greek cuisine O Stratos Greek Taverna.................... 34 Indian cuisine Jewel of India..................................... 68 Italian cuisine Belluci’s Manuka............................... 60 Belluci’s Woden............................... 102 Figaro................................................. 86 Firestone Pizzeria | Bar...................... 46 La Cantina....................................... 100 La Dolce Vita..................................... 88 La Rustica Trattoria........................... 84 Le Rendezvous................................... 66 Sub Urban......................................... 42 Tosolini’s Ristorante........................... 20

Mecca Bah......................................... 72 Saffron............................................... 58 modern asian cuisine Abell’s Kopi Tiam............................... 62 Ginseng............................................. 70 Madam Woo...................................... 90 Sammy’s Kitchen............................... 28 Modern Australian cuisine All Bar Nun....................................... 40 Alto Tower Restaurant......................... 8 Axis Restaurant.................................. 10 Babar Café & Bar............................... 30 Cream Café & Bar............................. 26 Debacle............................................. 38 Du Jour.............................................. 14 Edgar’s Inn......................................... 50 First Floor.......................................... 82 Flint................................................... 12 Fuel................................................... 64 Kingsleys Steak & Crabhouse............ 32 Kitschen............................................. 36 Pangaea.............................................. 56 Sage Restaurant................................. 52 Sub Urban......................................... 42 Tongue & Groove............................... 24 Verve Café & Bar............................... 78 Casino Canberra.............................. 106

Seafood China Plate........................................ 18 Kingsleys Steak & Crabhouse............ 32 O Stratos Greek Taverna.................... 34 Pangaea.............................................. 56 Ruby Chinese Restaurant.................. 44 Wasabi............................................... 76 Thai cuisine Thai Chiang Rai................................. 94 Vietnamese cuisine Huong Hao........................................ 96

a cocktail bar

Alto Tower Restaurant......................... 8 Benchmark Wine Bar......................... 16 E.U. Café.......................................... 98 Pulp Kitchen...................................... 48

The Bah........................................... 116 B Bar................................................ 114 Binara one........................................ 118 Knightsbridge Penthouse................. 117 Kremlin Bar..................................... 112 Tongue & Groove............................... 24 The Uni Pub.................................... 108

Portuguese cuisine

gaming tables

Vasco’s Portuguese Grill..................... 92

Casino Canberra.............................. 106

Modern European cuisine

live music

jewellery

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King O’Malleys................................ 119 Mooseheads..................................... 110 Sub Urban......................................... 42 Tongue & Groove............................... 24

B&G Handbags................................ 136 Bourgeois Pig................................... 130 Creations Jewellers.......................... 135 Furla................................................ 132 Redpaths.......................................... 129 Unit Concepts................................. 130

sixonethree....................................... 128 Unit Concepts................................. 130 womens fashion

Bamboozle....................................... 136

B&G Handbags................................ 136 Bellissima on Kennedy..................... 139 Department of the Exterior.............. 133 Nunie.............................................. 126 Sybil’s Closet................................... 139

pool tables

mens fashion

womens shoes & accessories

Mooseheads..................................... 110 The Uni Pub.................................... 108

Civic Shoes...................................... 129 sixonethree....................................... 128

a pub

mens shoes & accessories

All Bar Nun....................................... 40 Debacle............................................. 38 King O’Malleys................................ 119 Mooseheads..................................... 110 Sub Urban......................................... 42 The Uni Pub.................................... 108

Bourgeois Pig................................... 130 Civic Shoes...................................... 129 Redpaths.......................................... 129 sixonethree....................................... 128

Angelo’s Shoes................................. 138 B&G Handbags................................ 136 Bourgeois Pig................................... 130 Department of the Exterior.............. 133 Escala.............................................. 138 Furla................................................ 132 La Cobbler....................................... 127 Redpaths.......................................... 129

a nightclub Casino Canberra.............................. 106 Mooseheads..................................... 110 The Uni Pub.................................... 108

a wine bar Benchmark Wine Bar......................... 16

kids fashion & toys

perfume Bourgeois Pig................................... 130 Home Bed, Bath & Baby................. 134 Perfume Box.................................... 126 a shopping mall Canberra Centre.............................. 122 specialty food Belconnen Fresh Food Markets....... 124 Downtown Milkbar.......................... 131 unisex streetwear

art Asian Arts Manuka.......................... 137 Paintbox Fine Art............................. 131

Redpaths.......................................... 129 sixonethree....................................... 128 Unit Concepts................................. 130

homeware

watches

Asian Arts Manuka.......................... 137 Home by Creations.......................... 134 Slave To Luxury............................... 128 Unit Concepts................................. 130

Bourgeois Pig................................... 130 Creations Jewellers.......................... 135 Furla................................................ 132 Redpaths.......................................... 129

Northside Dining Indulge in a range of cuisines from around the globe or the best of local produce. Seek out hidden gems in the inner suburbs such as Ainslie or Dickson or go formal on the CBD’s west side. Enjoy panoramic views on Black Mountain or feel the buzz of the street with al fresco dining on Bunda Street’s North Quarter.

Grab a feast for breakfast in Canberra’s oldest café or enjoy smart and savvy Italian on London Circuit

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Alto Tower Restaurant Quick Facts Telstra Tower, Black Mountain Drive, Acton (see map page 140) Lunch Thu, Fri & Sun from noon Dinner Tue - Sun from 6pm For bookings Tel 02 6247 5518 www.altotower.com.au Modern European cuisine Starters from $21.00 Mains from $36.00 Desserts from $18.00 Sides from $8.00 Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Wine available by the glass Wheelchair access / Ample parking Recent Awards Restaurant & Catering Association (ACT) Winner New Restaurant 2007 Restaurant & Catering Association (AUS) Finalist New Restaurant 2007

S i n c e o p e n i n g it s d o o r s i n 2 0 0 6 , A lto h a s m a d e a p o i nt o f r e d e f i n i n g th e c o n c e p t o f th e r e v o lv i n g r e sta u r a nt and has gained a solid following from locals a n d v i s ito r s a l i ke

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ere is a restaurant that delivers a dining experience to match the sensational view, and certainly suggests that one is far better off seeing the sights at dinnertime with a delicious meal and a perfect glass of wine, rather than jostling with the masses during the day. Clean lines and minimalist white dĂŠcor hint that modern sophistication now reigns in the lofty heights of Black Mountain, and the food confirms it.

Chef and co-owner Kurt Neumann has created a modern Australian menu with innovative European influences.

Premium fresh, seasonal produce, sourced locally and regionally, shares the stage with international gourmet specialties such as French truffles, foie gras and sturgeon caviar. The extensive wine list features a solid selection of local, regional and international wines as well as some sumptuous sparklings and champagnes. Maitre d' and co-owner Mickey Gubas leads the knowledgeable, friendly and unpretentious staff in creating the perfect combination of culinary and visual bliss.

a modern Australian menu with innovative

European influences shares the stage with international gourmet specialties

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Axis Restaurant Great dining continues to appear amongst our national institutions — In this case at the National Museum of Australia

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nnovative Modern Australian cuisine is served either inside the sun lit dining room or on the wide deck, both of which boast expansive views over the lake. This is a contemporary restaurant, with a very smooth feel and one of the best views in Canberra. In typical Australian style the menu is influenced by Asia and Europe and utilises some of the best local ingredients. This is evident in the Salad of wagyu beef served with seaweed & petite leaves, seared spring bay scallops & baby cress with a green horseradish aioli. Or the very popular Creole spiced Bundawarra free range pork fillet resting on softened polenta with vanilla braised pork belly on savoy cabbage. Service is what you would expect from this type of establishment, with professional well informed and attentive staff on hand to make things run smoothly. An extensive wine list with some great Australian or local labels complements the fresh and seasonal menu, and the desserts are a cut above.

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This is a contemporary restaurant, with a very smooth feel and one of the best views in Canberra

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Quick Facts National Museum of Australia Acton Peninsular, Acton (see map page 140) Lunch Tue - Sun from noon Dinner Tue - Sat from 6pm Breakfast Sunday from 8:30am For bookings Tel 02 6208 5176 www.canberra.park.hyatt.com Modern Australian cuisine Starters from $15.00 Mains from $22.50 Desserts from $14.50 Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Recent Awards Restaurant & Catering Association (ACT) WINNER Informal Modern Australian Restaurant 2005

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Quick Facts New Acton Pavillion Unit 2, 15 Edinburgh Avenue, Canberra City (see map page 140)

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Tue - Sat noon - 10pm Sunday brunch 10am - 4pm For bookings Tel 02 6162 3350 enquiries@flint.net.au www.flint.net.au Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Starters from $15.00 Mains from$18.00 Woodfired pizzas $22.00 Sides from $7.00 Desserts from $10.00 Modern Australian cuisine

Flint Dining Room & Bar B e a u t i f u l ly r e s to r e d Ac to n H o u s e, n o w k n o w n a s N e w Ac t o n, i s th e s e t ti n g f o r o n e o f C a n b e r r a’ s fav o u r ite n e w e ate r i e s th at m a n a g e s to c o m b i n e th e r u st i c w ith th e r e f i n e d

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his smart and sophisticated bistro is located in Canberra’s newest dining destination of New Acton, and is the latest venture of well known (to Sydney diners at least) Grant and Spencer Kells, formerly of Kells Kitchen. Communal tables, which run the length of the dining room, share the space with more intimate settings for four or less. White marble blends easily with dark hardwood floors, timber and masonry walls and ornate cornices on the high ceilings. The open

kitchen allows the wood fired oven to send rustic and tempting smells drifting through the space, inviting mouths to water. Diners may choose to sit inside or in one of two outdoor spaces that dominate the beautifully restored exterior of this lovely old building. From the wood fired grill and oven, one can expect black Angus wagyu rib eye or Byron Bay Berkshire pork rib; or one of the interesting selection of pizzas such as pear and gorgonzola finished with fresh sage. From the pans come refined and

interesting offerings that show this eatery does far more than steaks and pizzas. Starters may include a mosaic of rabbit and pork belly with roasted hazelnuts, red onion jam and brioche; mains may be wild barramundi with carrot and ginger sauce, red capsicum and spring onions; sweets are not fussy, but of a high quality. Blood orange cheesecake, for example, is perfect with chocolate sorbet. A serious wine list covers France and Germany alongside most regions in Australia, including some good locals.

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Du Jour O n a n y g i v e n d ay, o n e can find simple and e le gant d i s h e s put t o g e t h e r w e l l , a r ti s a n b r e a d s a n d pa s t r i e s , and a pleasing European i n flu e n c e d yet m o d e r n s e l e c t i o n i n C a n b e r r a’ s n e w e st d i n i n g p r e c i n c t

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he Du Jour philosophy is simple. Fresh made and uncomplicated flavours rule the roost here in line with owner and chef Chris Ross' desire to get to the root of good cooking. It all begins at the source for Chris, and he continues to seek out quality produce in the local area to offer to his patrons.

Local free range eggs were chosen for his pastries and breakfasts only after he inspected the farms himself, and his sourdough took ten weeks to establish its character before he used it in his breads. The food here may be described as modern Australian but certainly draws more from Europe than Asia. Plates are medleys of two or three things matched well rather than overly fussy, and ingredient is king. Confit duck salad is a generous starter of a crispy duck leg atop poached pear slices and rocquette, asparagus and a poached egg; crispy skin snapper fillet comes with prawns and spaghetti, in a light seafood and herb broth; New York cut is a hearty sirloin topped with a mushroom bavaroise, accompanied by a confit potato and fresh tomato salad. Sweets are a cut above as the tassie de chocolat may testify: warm flourless chocolate pudding is served with vanilla cream and is divine with warm ganache poured over. A modest but well rounded wine list features South and Western Australian wines along with choice whites from New Zealand and a couple of good locals.

A comfortable and interesting dining room is complemented by ample outdoor seating in the beautiful courtyard at New Acton.

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Quick Facts New Acton Pavillion Unit 1, 15 Edinburgh Avenue, Canberra City (see map page 140) Open 7 days Breakfast 7am - 3pm Lunch 12 - 3pm Dinner 6 - 11pm For bookings Tel 02 6162 4588

Fully licensed Breakfast from $8.90 Starters from $13.50 Mains from $24.00 Pasta/risotto from $19.00 Dessert from $13.50 Sides $8.00 Modern Australian cuisine All eggs used at Du Jour are free-range and sourced locally

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Benchmark Wine Bar B e n c h m a r k o p e n e d it s d o o r s i n 2 00 3 p r o c l a i m i n g it s i nt e nt i o n t o o f f e r C a n b e r r a’s w i n e b u f f s th e m o s t i nt e r e s t i n g w i n e l i s t i n t h e c it y

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ith a selection of 300 old-world and new-world wines–100 of those available by the glass–it certainly seems to have achieved its goal. In 2005, Gourmet Traveller named Benchmark as one of the best wine bars in the country.

More recently it took out the top prizes for Wine List and European cuisine in the 2007 Restaurant and Caterer’s Association awards for Canberra and Southern NSW. The seasonally updated menu sits firmly in the Modern European school with offerings such as seared scallops with Serano jamon,

rockmelon and fennel salad for starters; or oven roasted lamb rack with braised cabbage, paysan vegetables and rosemary jus for mains.

Dessert is typified by popular choices like chocolate and pistacchio fondant with vanilla ice cream. Owner Tasso Rovolis is always on hand to assist in the selection of the perfect drop to match diners' meals and share some of his extensive knowledge. A degustation course is offered with or without wines; but surely in a place such as this, sampling the many wines available seems the only sensible thing to do.

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Quick Facts 65 Northbourne Ave, Canberra City (next to Novotel hotel – see map pg 140) Mon - Fri noon til late Sat 5pm til late (will open Sundays for bookings of 10 or more) For bookings Tel 02 6262 6522 www.benchmarkwinebar.com.au Modern European cuisine Starters $17.00 Mains $28.00 Desserts $14.00 Tapas from $8.00 Wine flights from $15.00 Degustation $90.00 with wine $120.00 Fully licensed Recent Awards Australia's Wine List of the Year Awards 2008 – 3 glasses Restaurant & Catering Association (ACT) Winner European Restaurant 2008 Restaurant & Catering Association (ACT) Winner European Restaurant 2007 Restaurant & Catering Association (ACT) Winner Wine List 2007

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China Plate HERE IS A SHINY NEW C HINESE RESTAURANT IN THE HEART OF THE C ITY, OFFERIN G LI V E SEAFOOD AND HON G KON G STYLE DININ G WITH SMART SER V I C E AND MODERN SURROUNDIN G S

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hina Plate is the latest contributor to the Chinese food scene in Canberra, and is determined to bring some Hong Kong style to the capital. With senior chefs flown in from that vibrant metropolis, one can be assured that they will find an authentic indication of current directions in this mostly Cantonese cuisine. Yum cha-like starters such as har-gao are light as a feather while being packed with chunks of prawn. Lightly battered bean curd comes with a slice of crab meat and is wrapped in seaweed. Mustard king prawns have a wasabi-like kick, and are typical of the type of presentation favoured here. Live seafood is important in this restaurant, and is served simply with freshness being key.

Guests may choose their fish, then ask for it to be either steamed, pan or deep fried. Similarly, crustaceans such as lobster and crab are given a cooking style according to guests’ liking – and may include hot rock salt; garlic butter; or ginger and shallot. A good range of traditional Chinese dishes, house specialities, and some Aussie-Chinese favourites round out the carefully thought out menu. The fitout is modern and minimalist: simple cream walls are set off with muted brown ceilings; glossy black light shades cast a warm yellow glow; and embossed table cloths add to the upmarket feel.

Accoutrements such as napkin holders, chopsticks and rice servers have an attention to detail that hints at the gilded finery of imperial China, and waitstaff – dressed immaculately in smart grey Chinese collar shirts – give efficient and accommodating service.

Chinese cuisine Starters from $3.80 Soups from $5.20 Mains from $13.80 Live seafood market price Banquets from $22.80 Fully licensed

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Open 7 days Lunch 11.30am - 2.30pm Dinner 5 - 10.30pm | Fri & Sat til 11pm

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Melbourne Building, 41-43 Northbourne Ave, Canberra City (see map page 140)

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Tosolini’s Ristorante Quick Facts cnr London Circuit & East Row, Canberra City (see map page 140) Open 7 days 7.30am til late For bookings Tel 02 6247 4317 www.tosolinis.com.au Modern Italian cuisine Breakfast from $4.90 Light meals from $6.90 Starters from $13.90 Mains from $26.90 Pasta from $15.50 (e) / $20.50 (m) Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Food to Go If you can’t get to Tosolinis then have your meal delivered to you Italian style – on a Vespa. Check menus on the Tosolinis website or phone

Th i s s m a rt Ita li a n e ate ry wa s at th e f o r e f r o nt o f C a n b e r r a’s n e w wav e o f d i n i n g e sta b li s h m e nts i n th e e a r ly n i n e ti e s a n d c o nti n u e s to d o g r e at th i n g s to d ay

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wner Carlo Tosolini and chef Peter Spencer are always on hand to ensure that their patrons, who have come seeking those things that haven’t changed in over twenty years – such as great coffee and quality modern Italian cuisine – are well catered for in the funky surroundings.

The dining room is a palette of warm browns and muted reds, a lively mix of diners at the tables and coffee lovers on the leather lounges. The fireplace takes pride of place in the centre of the room and creates a warm and cosy atmosphere on those cold Canberra nights.

The outdoor area is lovely in the warmer months with

the mature trees acting as a perfect canopy. The menu features pasta such as house made gnocchi with gorgonzola cream sauce and tomato basil concasse, as well as modern dishes like chargrilled deep sea cod served on a warm fennel, leek and potato salad with a lemon and caper butter sauce.

Pizzas are served in traditional square-cut slices on wooden cutting boards.

Those patrons just after coffee and a cake should not go past the tiramisu which is made fresh by Carlo’s mother Valentina and has almost acquired legendary status in Canberra. It’s probably the best version of this traditional dessert in the city – or any where else, for that matter.

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patrons, who have come seeking those things that haven’t changed – great coffee and modern Italian cuisine – are well catered for in the funky new surroundings

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owner carlo tosolini

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Gus’ Café is highly regarded for its mix of great coffee and

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Gus' Café I n 19 6 8 th e n ow le g e n dary G u s Pete r s i lk a e stab li s h e d G u s’ Café, pi o n e e r i n g Can b e r r a’s m o d e r n café c u ltu r e by d e f yi n g th e d r ac o n ian r e g u lati o n s wh i c h pr o h i b ite d o utd o o r d i n i n g

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us’– Canberra's oldest outdoor café – has been highly regarded for its mix of great coffee and inner-city vibe for decades. Today this heritage listed café is managed by a vibrant young team – headed by siblings Stephen Rockmann and Janice Glenn – which has certainly taken the Gus' legacy to heart over the course of the last decade and a half. This is reflected in the care they take to maintain all that is great about this spot in busy Bunda street. The recent indoor refurbishment has re-interpreted elements of the original fit-

out, whilst giving a modern feel, and the two sprawling outdoor areas continue to dominate this corner of the city. The menu offers great coffee, hearty all-day breakfasts, and delicious toasted sandwiches that have made this place an institution, along with more substantial main dishes such as a sirloin steak topped with a prawn sauce and buttery vegetables, or a range of pastas, salads and risottos. For those after something sweet, don't go past their housemade banana bread with strawberries, cream and maple syrup.

Quick Facts Shop 8, Garema Arcade Bunda Street, Canberra City (see map page 140) Open 7 days 7:30am til late Tel 02 6248 8118 Modern Café Breakfast from $7.90 Starters from $7.90 Salads from $13.90 Pastas from $16.90 Mains from $18.90 Desserts from $6.90 Fully licensed

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Tongue & Groove Quick Facts Cnr Bunda & Genge Sts, Canberra City (see map page 140) Open 7 days 11am til late For bookings Tel 02 6230 4455 Modern Australian cuisine Light meals from $9.00 Mains from $15.00 Gourmet pizzas from $16.00 Desserts from $5.00 Fully licensed

INNER C ITY DININ G G ETS A WHOLE LOT G ROO V IER AT THIS BRAND NEW BAR AND EATERY ON BUSY BUNDA STREET

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ewly opened Tongue & Groove has some seriously big city attitude, looking part gallery, part warehouse. Décor is black on black with hints of gold giving an edgy sophistication to the cavernous space. Towering ceilings are adorned with space age light fittings that emit a golden glow. An amazing hand painted wall mural is mimicked by a hanging art installation, and giant concrete Y frames that make up the skeleton of the building stand unadorned in the centre of the room, adding an industrial touch. Communal tables fill the centre of the space and luxurious Victorian lounges on the perimeter are perfect for after dinner. Food is simple rather than fussy and focuses on freshness and quality. Gourmet pizzas

are expertly delivered from the wood fired oven and feature a classic selection along with some innovations. Light meals, often ordered to share, are certainly worth a sample – expect to find the sweetest bell peppers, filled with feta cheese and served with green olives and a white bean puree; or spatchcock, grilled, then roasted and served with a chickpea and jalapeño salad. Meatballs come with shaved parmesan and sit on a tangy tomato sauce; and salads may feature interesting combinations such as strawberries with goats cheese, watercress and a balsamic reduction. A well stocked bar takes pride of place at the lounge end, pushing out high quality beers, wines and spirits, as well as cocktails for the fashionable after dinner crowd.

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Food is simple rather than fussy and focuses on freshness and quality

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Quick Facts

Cream Café & Bar C r e a m s ta n d s o u t o n t h e c o r n e r o f N o r t h Q u a r t e r d i n i n g p r e c i n c t a s a c o n s p i c u o u s s tat e m e n t o f i n t e n t, s p e a k i n g v o l u m e s a b o u t t h e p h i l o s o p h y o f i t s c r e at o r s , S o c r at e s K o c h i n o s a n d O m a r M u s c at

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pend a moment with either of them and you can’t help but be impressed by the energy they pour into this venture. And like both of them, this establishment is no shrinking violet. White marble, stainless steel and ceramic come together in homage to art deco in the slick modern space. Here you see business types all hours of the day, either grabbing a Cream blend coffee to go, or meeting clients over a light lunch. Sunsets are greeted with after-work drinks just as diners arrive for chef David Black’s impressive menu of globally influenced contemporary dishes. The selection

includes wok fried bug and soft shell crab in XO chilli sauce with green papaya, snow pea sprouts and snake beans. Or a sage salted eye fillet on café de paris mash and broccolini, with muscat jus and a crispy slice of prosciutto. Those looking for a light meal may choose a barbecued atlantic salmon salad – Cream’s take on niçoise – with cos lettuce, tomato, green beans, potato and boiled egg. On weekends the brunch crowd descends, newspapers in hand, to take in the ambience.

At the front of house, Michael Nager is on hand with the funky and spunky floorstaff to ensure the satisfaction of all patrons.

Shop FG10, Canberra Centre Bunda Street Canberra City (see map page 140) Mon noon til late Tue - Fri 8am til late Sat 9am til late Sun 9am - 5pm Tel 02 6162 1448 www.creamcafebar.com.au Modern Australian cuisine Breakfast from $9.00 Light Meals from $9.00 Starters from $5.00 Mains from $19.00 Desserts from $12.00 Cocktails from $13.00 Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only WiFi network access available Recent Awards AHA Awards for Excellence (ACT) Winner Best Casual Dining (100+ guests) Outincanberra People’s Choice Awards Winner Best Restaurant

fit-out images supplied by cream

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famous for simple high quality Chinese and Malay cuisine with a focus on traditional favourites

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his bustling restaurant is a brand new version of the previous Sammy’s, which was located across the road and famous for simple high quality Chinese and Malay cuisine with a focus on traditional favourites.

Many Canberrans would rate Sammy’s when discussing where you can find the city’s best laksa or hawker noodle dishes like char kway teow.

Also extremely popular here are a number of chef ’s favourites that include Shan Tung chicken – deep fried and shredded with cucumber, garlic and peanuts; or the Sammy’s Kitchen special – marinated pork, chicken, calamari, scallops and

broccoli in oyster sauce. Seriously worth a try are some of the range of Malaysian curry dishes like gulai ayam – boneless chicken with potatoes and fragrant curry. Owner Sammy Chui is a veteran of the Canberra food industry, having been a partner in the famous Timmy’s Kitchen in Manuka – which he still owns – for many years until opening Sammy’s sixteen years ago.

Recently, he made the decision to relocate across the road and be part of the North Quarter dining precinct, and hence Sammy’s is now bigger and brighter, but obviously busier than ever with locals and visitors alike.

Lunch Mon - Sun 11:30am - 2:30pm Dinner Mon - Thu 5 - 10:30pm Fri - Sat 5 - 11:30pm Sun 5 - 10pm For bookings Tel 02 6247 1464 Chinese & Malaysian cuisine Starters from $3.60 Soup from $4.50 Mains from $10.00 Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only

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Babar Café & Bar a d a i ly p r o c e s s i o n o f o f f i c e tr u a nts i n search of a coffee f ix, m o v i e b u f f s a n d a li v e ly c r o w d o f a f te r-w o r k d r i n ke r s, a r e a ll lu r e d by th e e xte n s i v e m e n u, w e ll sto c ke d ba r a n d g r e at c o f f e e

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he menu at Babar features a solid choice of café style meals which include an interesting pizza selection — diners can choose something as simple as the Pesto, with tomato, pesto and bocconcini, to a more involved affair like the Seafood, with prawns, mussels, calamari, roquet lettuce and lemon aioli. Pasta and risotto are well represented as are salads and bread products such as club sandwiches or BLTs. Further up the food chain, one can choose a beef and guinness pie, osso bucco, or lamb dansahk. Steak can be a char-grilled rump with garden salad, fries and a red wine jus, or a New York sirloin with dijon mustard sauce, fries and a salad.

The brightly lit cake display continues the tradition of featuring an amazing selection of house-made sweets, synonymous with the Babar name.

Their signature cakes are cute little single serves such as blueberry or mars bar cheesecake; a warm sticky date pudding; or one of the many chocolate truffles. To complement the regular breakfast, lunch and dinner menus, light snacks are available all day. For those that may be venturing into Canberra’s southern suburbs, Babar’s Woden establishment opens seven days a week, with a unique breakfast menu on weekends.

Mon 8am - 5pm Tue - Sat 8am til late Tel 02 6162 1702 Fax 02 6162 1703 www.babar.com.au Modern CafĂŠ cuisine Breakfast from $5.40 Pastas from $14.90 Pizzas from $14.90 Mains from $16.40 Desserts from $7.90 Handmade truffles from $1.90 Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Indoor / outdoor seating

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North Quarter, Bunda Street Canberra Centre, Canberra City (see map page 140)

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Kingsleys Steak & Crabhouse K i n g s l eys Ste a k & C r a b h o u s e o p e n e d it s d o o r s i n 2 007 w ith a v i e w t o i ntr o d u c i n g C a n b e r r a to th e ta st y fa r e e n j oy e d f o r y e a r s

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eminiscent of the great American steakhouses, with comfy booth seating, dark timber detailing, a bar and small private dining room, Kingsleys keeps it simple, forgoing the urge to overdress in favour of focusing on quality steak and seafood. Seasonal starters include salt and pepper squid, Louisiana crab cakes or Asianstyle Alaskan king crab salad. Those looking for a quick lunch should try the Tajima wagyu minute steak, Berkshire pork ribs with spicy Georgia sauce and warm American coleslaw, or beer battered barramundi fillet with chips and tartare sauce. Steaks are a speciality, and guests have a choice of over half a dozen cuts. The 180 gram petite eye fillet is popular with ladies, and weights go all the way up to the 650 gram rib on the bone. Scallop carpet bag is an original take on the classic oyster carpet bag; there are also two Queensland wagyu steaks available – a 300 gram striploin and 400 gram rib-eye. The crab selection includes Australian mud crab - best served Singapore chilli style; Australian snow crab – recommended with salt, pepper, ginger and garlic; and Alaskan king crab, prized for its salty, sweet bright white meat with coral red highlights. Head chef Marcus Irwin adds a personal touch with specials such as wagyu carpaccio and whole baked baby barramundi.

Sweet offerings may be dark vanilla chocolate tart with King Island double cream, key lime pie or brioche summer pudding with vanilla bean anglaise. French and Australian cheeses are served with water crackers, dried Persian figs and quince paste. The extensive wine list includes international and Australian labels, complementing the menu with twenty wines by the glass.

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Tel 1300 KINGSLEYS (1300 546 475) www.kingsleys.com.au Modern Australian cuisine Starters from $13.90 Sides from $5.90 Mains from $13.90 Steaks from $22.90 Crabs seasonal pricing Fully licensed

Kingsleys keeps it simple, forgoing the urge to overdress in favour of focusing on quality

steak and seafood

this image supplied by kingsleys

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O Stratos Greek Taverna Quick Facts 9 Lonsdale Street, Braddon (see map page 140) Lunch Tue - Fri from noon Dinner Mon - Sat from 6pm For bookings Tel 02 6257 8200 Greek cuisine Starters from $8 Mains from $15 Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only

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wner Stan Daglis has created a relaxed and unpretentious setting – polished concrete floors, boldly painted walls and bi-fold doors that open up inviting the sounds of the street into the colourful space in the warmer months.

Traditional favourites such as Moussaka feature prominently on the menu and the grill works overtime turning out souvlaki skewers of lamb, pork or chicken, or lamb cutlets. Seafood lovers should be aware that whole fresh fish, grilled and basted with lemon and olive oil, are what this Lonsdale Street eatery does best, and there is always a good selection to choose from on the blackboard. Meze style dishes of octopus and calamari are always good and vegetarians are well catered for with dishes such as Dolmades (rice rolled in vine leaves) or Yemista (oven baked stuffed vegetables).

Those adventurous souls wishing to try Greek wine – other than Retsina – will be pleasantly surprised by good quality reds like the Boutari Syrah or Xinomavro (merlot) and crisp whites such as Santorini or Kretikos.

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I n a c ity with m o r e t h a n i t s fa i r s har e o f Tu r ki s h, Ita l i a n , C h i n e s e o r T h a i r e s ta u r a n t s , O St r at o s G r e e k Ta v e r n a i s o n e o f th e f e w p l a c e s where Greek food can b e fo u n d, an d i s c e r ta i n ly t h e c lo s e st to a r eal tav e r n a e x p e r i e n c e o n e wo u ld g et i n th e n at i o n ’ s c a p i ta l

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Seafood lovers should be aware that whole fresh fish, grilled and basted with lemon and olive oil, are what this Lonsdale Street eatery does best, and there is always a good selection to choose from on the blackboard

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Kitschen J u st a b l o c k away f r o m b u sy N o rth b o u r n e Av e n u e, th i s f u n a n d c a s u a l e ate ry i s w ith i n wa l ki n g d i sta n c e to m a ny o f th e n o rth s i d e's h ote ls

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raddon's Lonsdale Street is typical of one of those formerly industrial streets that are situated just outside a city's CBD which reinvent themselves to cater to quirky boutiques, quality art galleries and interesting eateries. Here you will find Kitschen, a dining destination located at the roundabout where Lonsdale street meets Elouera street. This establishment does breakfast, lunch and dinner and gets its fair share of coffee loving business types through the day. The atmosphere at Kitschen is casual, with friendly service the theme.

The food has an emphasis on quality, with freshness paramount to new chef Michael Bradford's philosophy. The menu has moved away a little from the Mediterranean and towards a modern Australian style since his arrival. Typical dishes may now include salmon fillet with roasted garlic mash potato, grilled asparagus and a lemon and chive burnt butter sauce; or tender eye fillet wrapped in bacon and topped with oven roasted mushrooms, sitting on a bed of chat potatoes and a red wine jus. A good selection of sweets include a very tempting "strawberry kisses", meringue filled with fresh strawberries and cream, and service reflects the management's philosophy of friendly hospitality rather than intimidating formality. A well priced wine list rounds things up very nicely and an easy walk home to your hotel makes this an appealing choice.

Breakfast Mon - Sat 8 - 11am Lunch Mon - Sat noon - 2.30pm Dinner Tue - Sat 6 - 9.30pm For bookings Tel 02 6247 2946 Modern Australian cuisine

Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Recent Awards Australian Hotels Association (ACT) Best casual dining under 100 seats 2006

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Starters from $10.90 Salads from $15.90 Pasta from $15.90 Mains from $24.90 Tapas from $9.90

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Quick Facts 30 Lonsdale Street, Braddon (see map page 140) Mon - Fri 9am til late Sat - Sun 8:30am til late For bookings Tel 02 6247 1314 Modern Australian cuisine Tapas from $6.90 Mains from $15.90 Salads from $8.90 Pizzas from $11.50 Fully licensed

his buzzing establishment on Braddon’s Lonsdale street is casual, funky and understated, and adds to the streetscape along with quirky retailers and art galleries in this semi industrial setting. Debacle opens for breakfast lunch and dinner, three hundred and sixty three days a year, and chef Katherine Brown’s menu features a wide choice of dishes that range from a Greek-style lamb burger with minted yoghurt to beer battered flathead fillets with chips, home made tartare and green salad. A large range of gourmet pizzas feature prominently and tapas are also available, alongside an ever-changing daily blackboard menu. Typical are offerings like pan-fried haloumi, marinated in lemon and thyme, with wild rocket; or grilled quail with speck, radicchio, red onion and lentil salad. Breakfast is another Debacle specialty. It may be as simple as spicy fruit bread with home made jams or a massive Debacle Recovery Breaky, which includes fried eggs, tomato, baked beans, bacon, rosti, snags, mushrooms, and a coffee. The focus on fresh produce here borders on the obsessive – there isn't even a freezer on-premise. Those just after a drink will be tempted by one of the seventy imported beers or thirty wines available by the glass.

On the floor, charismatic floor managers David and Danny keep things moving along smoothly, ensuring the lively crowd of after-work professionals and hungry locals are well looked after.

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A large range of gourmet pizzas feature prominently and tapas are also available

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All Bar Nun SET IN A LEAFY C ORNER AT O’C ONNOR SHOPS, THIS WELL KNOWN AND LOVED PUB DELIVERS CASUAL AND AFFORDABLE DININ G IN AN AC C ESSIBLE AND FRIENDLY ENVIRONMENT

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ver the last decade or so, All Bar Nun has set the trend for the kind of relaxed gastro-pub establishments that have become popular in Canberra’s inner north. Here you will find a casual outlook in a local pub that serves simple and unpretentious fare such as gourmet pizzas, chicken burgers, antipasto and salads. Match that with one of Canberra's largest selections of international and domestic beers and you realise why this venue is so popular amongst the locals. Gourmet pizzas are interesting

combinations such as spinach & bacon with mushrooms, feta cheese and olives; or a vegetarian option like mushrooms, Spanish onion and blue cheese. Mains may be one of the range of burgers, such as the falafel burger with guacamole and beer battered chips, or a Thai beef salad of mixed lettuce with toasted pine nuts, rice sticks & a sweet chilli, lemon and coriander dressing. A good range of tapas may be starters or just a quick bite. Expect thinly sliced chorizo sausage or salt and pepper calamari, along with pizza

bread with dips. After work drinks, lazy lunches and casual dinners are the main focus here during the week, and Sunday afternoons remain popular with the young and hip during warmer months. All Bar Nun is well known for its affiliations with many sporting groups, and provides large screen viewing of the big sporting events.

Remote broadband access is also available for customers to study, work or just play around on the internet. Enjoy the weekend with a cool drink and good friends.

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Quick Facts O’Connor Shops, Macpherson Street, O’Connor (see map page 140) Tel 02 6257 9191 Open Mon - Fri 8am - 10pm Sat - Sun 8am - 11pm www.allbarnun.com.au Modern Australian cuisine Tapas from $7.00 Pizzas from $14.90 Mains from $12.90 Remote Broadband access available free of charge Sixteen beers on tap Sports loving venue Regular art exhibitions on display

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Sub Urban by Belluci’s D i c ks o n’s a l r e a dy e sta b l i s h e d W o o l l ey str e e t h a s j u st g o n e u p a f e w n ot c h e s w ith th e o p e n i n g o f t h i s st y l i s h a n d s p e c ta c u l a r p u b a n d r e s ta u r a nt

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t the Cape street end of Woolley street you will find Sub Urban, sitting conspicuously on the art-deco styled corner it calls home. This brand new establishment is actually on the site where the well known and loved Belluci’s has traded for the past fifteen years, but it seems that the old place has just received a massive makeover to come back bigger and bolder, catering to the inner north’s love of pubs that also serve top nosh.

The gorgeous new fitout features classic timber panelling in the restaurant end, giving it the feel of a New York grill, whilst the pub end keeps it ultra cool with a masterpiece island bar and art nouveau touches. You can’t miss the 1930’s feel of the interior, and certainly get the impression that this is a tribute to classic Canberra – think OPH. The classic theme continues on the menu with the standard Belluci's Italian inspired fare now sharing the bill with a range of steaks – served with chips or jacket potatoes – or pork ribs with a choice of smokey barbecue or spicy asian sauces. Other mains feature pollo porto – chicken breast with king prawns and a creamy port reduction sauce – that can certainly be described as comfort food. Finish with a tiramisu or a New York cheesecake and wander over to the bar to make a night of it.

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Quick Facts Cnr cape & Woolley Sts Dickson (see map page 140) Open 7 days 11am til late For bookings Tel 02 6257 7788 www.sub-urban.com.au Modern Australian cuisine Starters from $10.90 Pizzas from $10.90 Mains from $18.90 Desserts $12.90 Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only

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Ruby Chinese Restaurant Ruby is one of those Chinese restaurants that reminds you of a classic Chinatown eatery and rightly so. Located in Canberra’s version of Chinatown in Dickson, it is famous for its live seafood, boasting an impressive looking wall of tanks full of lobster, crabs, fresh and saltwater fish, and occasionally abalone and prawn

Quick Facts Ground Floor 18 Woolley Street, Dickson (see map page 140) Lunch Thu - Tue noon - 2pm Dinner Thu - Tue 5pm - 11:30pm For bookings Tel 02 6249 8849 Live seafood and Cantonese cuisine Starters from $5.50 Mains from $15.80 Desserts from $6.00 Banquets from $35.00 per head Fully licensed

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t is not uncommon to see delegations from a number of Canberra’s embassies using one of its many private rooms to entertain, and the newly refurbished main dining room still busy with diners til quite late – Ruby opens its kitchen a lot later than most Canberra restaurants. Its five chefs are trained in Hong Kong, have worked in Sydney and Melbourne’s biggest restaurants, and can whip up some 180 dishes. Whilst the dining room has lifted a gear since its recent makeover –

it truly feels like a big city Hong Kong eatery – it has managed to maintain its casual charm and is still a place where the waiters call their regulars by name and happily recommend dishes. Owner manager Amy Chan continues the tradition of running this family business first set up in 1982 by parents Jimmy and Suzie. “Our family has a long history of running restaurants in Canberra” says Amy, “ we’ve been here forever and people love our food because it’s authentic”.

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owner manager amy chan

Firestone Pizzeria|Bar Wh i lst it’s tr u e that D i c ks o n’s Wo o lley str e et has b e e n n i c knam e d th e C h i natown o f Can b e r r a, i n actual fact th i s we ll kn own eat str e et cate r s to a vast ar r ay o f taste s, i n c lu d i n g I n d ian, Eth i o pian, Thai, Tu r ki s h an d o f c o u r s e Italian

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pened mid 2007, pizza bar Firestone sits comfortably in this eclectic smörgåsbord of flavour, with its Italian inspired menu that features wood-fired pizzas – as the name may suggest. The restaurant has a fresh and hip feel.

Plush bench seats run the length of the long narrow space and dark timber furniture sits on a polished concrete floor. Staff are young and cheerful, and the feeling is casual and light. Woodfired pizzas are perfectly crisp, and calzones may be stuffed with traditional fillings like mozzarella, pepperoni or artichoke. A wide selection of sharing and caring plates of tidbits such as calamari, haloumi or swimmer-crab risotto balls feature alongside the expected offerings of pastas, risottos and other main meals to round out the savoury. The sweet, however gets quite novel. A range of sweet pizzas such as strawberry, marshmallow and white chocolate give a twist on dessert that works surprisingly well.

A good selection of Australian wines and imported and local beers cover the beverages quite well.

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Quick Facts Shop 1, 14 Woolley Street, Dickson (see map page 140) Lunch Tue - Sun noon - 2.30pm Dinner Mon - Sun 5.30pm - 10pm For bookings Tel 02 6247 4447 www.firestonepizzeria.com.au Modern Italian cuisine Pizzas from $9.90 Sharing plates from $6.90 Pastas & risottos from $14.90 Mains from $24.90 Desserts from $10.90 Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only

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Pulp Kitchen V i s i t o r s t o C a n b e r r a w h o d e c i d e to ste p o u t s i d e t h e u s u a l r e s ta u r a nt p r e c i n c t s w i l l t r u ly b e r e w a r d e d i f t h ey m a ke th e i r w ay t o A i n s l i e ’ s n e w e st d i n i n g d e st i n at i o n , P u l p K i tc h e n

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ere is an inner north eatery with an unfussed atmosphere– slightly distressed café chairs and tables, polished concrete floors and muted browns create the landscape in which unpretentious waiting staff navigate the room, always friendly yet non intrusive. The open kitchen shares the space with the diners, in a way communicating the fact that this is no show pony.

Having done his time in some of the finest restaurants around the world, owner and chef Christian Hauberg now outright rejects million dollar fitouts in favour of rustic simplicity; and shuns haute cuisine in favour of real, flavoursome food and masterful technique. The menu highlights all that is good about European food by staying close to its rural roots.

One may find octopus braised in red wine, with asparagus, kipfler potatoes and dill; or rare beef salad with basil ricotta, burnt lemon and chilli.

Heartier dishes may include braised lamb shanks with parsley puree and red onion confit. A great selection is also available on the blackboard and almost always features a perfect dry-aged sirloin. Desserts get a little more urbane with offerings such as bitter chocolate terrine on a pistachio and vodka milkshake. Most dishes are available in either entrée or main, and prices can only be described as sensible. A small and interesting wine list features local labels and complements the menu.

Quick Facts Shop 1, Wakefield Gardens, Ainslie shops, Ainslie (see map page 140) Lunch Tue - Fri noon - 2pm Dinner Tue - Sat 6 - 9.30pm For bookings Tel 02 6257 4334 www.pulp-kitchen.com.au European cuisine Starters from $12.00 Mains from $18.00 Desserts from $10.00 Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only $4.00 corkage per person

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Edgar’s Inn E d gar’s I n n d e live r s a n e i g h b o u r h o o d pu b expe r i e n c e matc h e d with q uality fo o d i n th e leaf y i n n e r n o rth s u b u r b o f Ai n s li e

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ore and more these days, Canberrans are sticking to their own local shops when looking for a bite to eat, and little wonder as places like Edgar’s provide friendly and inviting dining options to enjoy. This bright and sunny little corner pub is located well within reach of most of the city’s northside hotels and offers a great selection of eclectic dishes that borrow from traditional pub fare as well as Asia and Europe for their inspiration. One may find a good selection of burgers or lightly battered fish and chips as expected. Bangers and mash are generous and served with sweet potato mash and a balsamic onion and tomato chutney. Garlic lamb skewers are tender and flavoursome and sit atop Greek-style salad and hummus. Tapas are always available and ever changing, and may include spring rolls with sweet and sour sauce, a mezze plate to share or homestyle meatballs with Napoli sauce. With an unpretentious atmosphere full of locals, good cold beer, great wines and an outdoor area that buzzes in the summer months, Edgar’s Inn is well worth a visit for breakfast, lunch or dinner, or just a quiet drink with friends.

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Quick Facts 1 Edgar Street Ainslie Shops, Ainslie (see map page 140) Open Mon - Fri 9.30am til late Sat - Sun 9am til late Tel 02 6257 5488 Modern Australian cuisine Snacks from $6.00 Mains from $14.00 Desserts from $9.00 Breakfast from $8.50 (weekends and public holidays only) Fully licensed

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Sage Restaurant C ANBERRA’ S RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR C AN BE FOUND RI G HT NEXT TO THE C ITY, IN ONE OF THE C APITAL’ S OLDEST BUILDIN G S , OFFERIN G A REFINED MENU OF IMMA C ULATELY PRESENTED C ONTEMPORARY AUSTRALIAN C UISINE

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eritage listed Gorman House is the home of Sage, a sophisticated little restaurant with a smart dining room for around forty, and shady courtyard for sunny days and warm nights. Owner and chef Kyle Prowse has been working the pans here since this restaurant won a Chef ’s Hat (then as sous chef), and resists the temptation to deviate too far from a winning formula. That said, since buying the place he has introduced his own style and flair to great success, taking

out a number of awards– including Restaurant Of The Year. His “Sage Signature Series” is a clever way for diners to create their own personal degustation from any item on the menu. Starters, mains or desserts may be selected, and the emphasis here is definitely on immaculate presentation regardless. Typical dishes include seared scallops and sauteed squid, with macadamia milk and delicately scattered black pearl caviar; or roasted Riverina lamb with celeriac puree, sage macaroons,

ashed goat’s cheese and a delightful mint and apple jelly. Sweet tooths may be sated by a pineapple panacotta with coconut sorbet, orange powder and mojito. Whilst Kyle and his team have high ambition – ensuring that Sage takes its place among the city’s best– the menu is very reasonably priced and the feel is comfortable and accessible. Floor staff are knowledgeable and inviting, so expect attentive service to complement this exciting and innovative menu.

Open Tue - Sat Lunch noon - 2.30pm Dinner 6 - 9.30pm For Bookings Tel 02 6249 6050 www.sagerestaurant.net.au Modern Australian cuisine Starters $18.00 Mains from $32.00 Desserts $14.00 "Signature Series" Degustation $12.00 per course Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Recent Awards Restaurant & Catering Association (ACT) Winner Restaurant of the Year 2008 Winner Contemporary Australian Restaurant 2008

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Gorman House Arts Centre Ainslie Avenue, Braddon (see map page 140)

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Southside Dining Experience the village atmosphere of Kingston by night. Join the locals in conversation over authentic Italian, Thai, Portuguese or Chinese. Go a little more formal with modern Australian overlooking Green Square. Watch the world go by on Manuka’s Franklin Street while sharing delicious meals from around the world. Explore a range of flavours such as Indian, Moroccan, Chinese, Thai and more. Head into the inner south suburbs or to Woden for relaxed and efficient dining with quality in mind

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Pangaea

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When all the plates were one, the world’s land mass was known as Pangaea. This popular Manuka restaurant of the same name takes this philosophy to heart, and expresses it in the international fusions served simply in the form of unique dishes known as Plates of Pangaea

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lates, which make up the bulk of the menu, are delicious little creations specifically designed to share, and are available all day. Whilst Pangaea does serve a limited range of decidedly high quality mains, mainly focused on pasta and fresh seasonal seafood, diners are encouraged to embrace the idea of sharing – think yum cha, meze or tapas – so its not uncommon to see a procession of these dishes head to tables, either as courses in a range of set menus, or simply ordered at diners’ discretion. International influences are evident when perusing the

selection: Spring rolls are filled with prawns and Vietnamese mint and served with a tamarind chilli sauce; wagyu beef carpaccio is served with cornichon batons, baby capers and black truffle dressing; seared haloumi cheese is perfect with olive tapenade and Spanish onion salsa; crispy pork belly is lifted by an apple and star anise chutney. The fit-out is warm and inviting with an exotic touch that fits the international flavour.

Al fresco dining is hugely popular within the large and well designed outdoor area perfect for enjoying scrumptious barbecued seafood with live music on Sundays.

Corner Franklin and Furneaux Streets, Manuka (see map page 142) Open Wed - Mon (closed Tue) noon til late For bookings Tel 02 6232 6600 www.pangaearestaurant.com.au Modern Australian cuisine Sides from $7.00 Tasting plates from $10.00 Pizzas $18.00 Mains from $26.00 Tasting banquets from $35.00pp Seafood Sundays barbecue and live music all day Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Indoor/outdoor seating

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Saffron It i s i nte r e sti n g to n ote th at th i s p o p u l a r r e sta u r a nt o n F r a n kl i n str e e t b i l l s it s fa r e a s e a st M e d ite r r a n e a n. W h e n c o n s i d e r i n g th e f l a v o u r s o f L e b a n o n, G r e e c e a n d T u r key a r e s o c l o s e ly a l i g n e d t h ey c o u l d a l m o st b e pa s s e d o f f a s o n e c u i s i n e, e a st M e d ite r r a n e a n it i s!

Quick Facts Franklin Street, Manuka (see map page 142) Open 7 days Lunch noon - 2pm Dinner 6 - 10pm For bookings Tel 02 6295 7068 www.saffronrestaurant.com.au East Mediterranean cuisine Starters from $10.90 Mains from $19.90 Desserts $10.90 Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Recent Awards Restaurant & Catering Association (ACT) Winner Middle Eastern Restaurant 2008 Restaurant & Catering Association (ACT) Finalist Specialty Restaurant 2007 Restaurant & Catering Association (ACT) Finalist Wine List 2007 Restaurant & Catering Association (ACT) Winner Specialty Restaurant 2006

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rothers Max and Marvin Azize have been involved in the food industry for quite some time and are well known in Canberra for their hospitality. With Saffron, their mission over the last four years has been to create a refined dining experience that pays tribute to their roots and embraces all that is shared with the cuisines of this particular part of the world. That the philosophy works is confirmed by the flavours that dominate the menu.

For Starters, mushrooms are cooked in olive oil, garlic and fresh herbs. Scallops

dressed with white wine, garlic and coriander. Feta cheese and herbs are rolled into delicate filo and freshly baked.

Mains include dishes like Castalita–lamb cutlets with tomato puree, red wine, chilli & olive oil; or Sujuc–a hearty baked foil parcel of Armenian salami and vegetables. Service is genuinely warm and wine matching is well executed for those in unfamiliar territory. The dining room is a simply decorated, light and cheerful space with linen on tables keeping it smart, and outdoor dining is also available.

a refined dining experience that pays tribute to their roots and embraces all that is shared with the cuisines of this particular part of the world

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Belluci’s Manuka M a n u k a’s m o st p r o m i n e nt c o r n e r l o c ati o n s e e s B e l l u c i’s w e l c o m i n g a l l t o d i n e o ut o n th e i r a cc e s s i b l e Ita l i a n c u i s i n e i n t h i s b u stl i n g i n n e r s o ut h e ate ry

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f you haven’t noticed Belluci’s as you come in to Manuka, it’s the busy to overflowing restaurant on the corner of Furneaux and Franklin streets with the giant neon lit “B” . Hard to miss, but more so because of the almost always near capacity crowd that gathers here most nights to enjoy pizzas, pastas and a few eclectic creations of chef and part owner Frank Kochinos. Frank’s menu is completely accessible, with many items firmly in the Italian classic range familiar to many, or Aussie favourites, seasoned and cooked beautifully as his experience truly comes to the fore. For example, Chicken Caesar is bursting with flavour, the chicken breast chargrilled to perfection; Linguine Oceana is a medley of balmain bugs, prawns, pancetta and spicy herb tomato sauce; Zucchini flowers are stuffed with delicate prawn mousse and a veal cutlet is grilled and stuffed with camembert, walnuts and apple and tender as can be. This is one for those who like a little bustle over dinner, or a leisurely weekend lunch. The interior features distressed brick walls and mock fresco motifs, and floor to ceiling windows let in the sunshine and allow diners to watch the world go by.

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Abell's Kopi Tiam W h e n l o o k i n g f o r g o o d q u a l it y A s i a n f o o d i n M a n u k a, it i s g o o d a d v i c e to o v e r l o o k b u sy F r a n k l i n S tr e e t. I n s t e a d, h e a d t o t h e q u i e t e r F u r n e a ux Str e e t, w h e r e y o u w i l l f i n d A b e l l’ s Ko p i Ti a m

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erving a modern style of Chinese and Malay cuisine, this bright and friendly little restaurant has been doing a consistently solid trade since it opened its doors ten years ago. Owners Abell Ong and Lorna Sim have managed to combine the tastes of their Malaysian and Chinese origins with an array of unique and innovative dishes and offer them on a menu that also features traditional

favourites. The formula has proven so popular that booking ahead is advisable even on the quieter nights. The dining room is colourful and informal and there is ample seating outside for those wishing to dine al fresco. That said, the food is what this place packs them in for, and the menu is exemplified by dishes such as "My mum's laksa", bee hoon noodles with coconut curry flavours and served with chicken

or seafood – one of the best in town; or sand whiting, tempura battered and accompanied by a nashi pear salad. Tofu is crisp fried and comes with a sweet chilli and peanut sauce; and crispy skinned chicken may be served with coriander and a soy dipping sauce. Finish with a black sticky rice pudding and you will truly feel satisfied.

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Quick Facts 7 Furneaux Street, Manuka (see map page 142) Lunch Tue - Sun 11.30am - 2pm Dinner Tue - Sat 5.30pm - 10pm Sun 5.30pm - 9pm For bookings Tel 02 6239 4199 Modern Asian cuisine Starters from $3.60 Mains from $13.90 Desserts from $6.90 Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Recent Awards Restaurant & Catering Association (ACT) Winner Best Asian Restaurant 2007 Winner Best Asian Restaurant 2006 Winner Best Asian Restaurant 2005 Finalist Best Asian Restaurant 2004 Winner Best Asian Restaurant 2003 Winner Best Asian Restaurant 2002

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Fuel Café Bar Quick Facts The Lawns Bougainville Street , Manuka (see map page 142) Breakfast Sat - Sun 8.30 - 11am Lunch Mon - Fri 11.30am - 2.30pm Sat - Sun 11am - 3pm Dinner Mon - Sat 6pm - late Coffee & cakes available all day For bookings Tel 02 6239 4422 Fax 02 6295 6639 www.thisiscanberra.com.au/fuel Modern Australian cuisine Breakfast from $8.90 Starters from $12.90 Mains from $19.90 Desserts from $9.90 Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Awards Australian Hotels Association (ACT) Winner Best Café Style Restaurant 2008 Restaurant & Catering Association (ACT) Finalist Contemporary Australian Restaurant – Informal 2008 Restaurant & Catering Association (ACT) Finalist Contemporary Australian Restaurant – Informal 2007

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perating for the last twelve years under its previous name The Tryst, this restaurant is owned and operated by the well respected Dave Hocking, and remains as popular as ever, name change or not. International chef Derek Brown's menu is slanted towards upscale and contemporary cafĂŠ fare, and typical of the modern Australian tendency to place the flavours of Europe and Asia side by side in the culinary landscape. Starters include house made Turkish dips and bread, or flash fried whitebait with rocquette salad and lemon aioli. Mains are typified by a fragrant Thai chicken curry with coconut rice, pappadums and minted cucumber yoghurt; or Tuscan braised lamb shanks. Pasta may be chicken, prosciutto and sage gnocchi in a creamy white wine sauce, or a linguine with either seafood or carbonara sauces. If we notice a pattern here it is that almost every one of these dishes can be described as a modern classic, so it is fair to say that one will find something to sate their tastebuds as well as their hunger. A good wine list features well chosen Australian and NZ wines plus a good selection of locals. Coffee is very important and is available, along with desserts, between food service. In the dining area, boldly coloured wrought iron sculptures feature alongside high quality Australian hardwood details, and beautiful timber framed windows open up to invite the ambience in during warmer months.

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Le Rendezvous FOR OVER FOUR DE CADES THIS MANUKA RESTAURANT HAS BEEN FEEDIN G THE FAMILIES OF THE INNER SOUTH WITH ITS FAMOUS PIZZAS AND ITALIAN INSPIRED C OMFORT FOOD. NEW C HEF BRAD Wo LTER ADDS SOME FLAIR TO TAKE IT TO A NEW LEVEL

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his restaurant continues to win awards and has cemented its place as one of Canberra’s most loved dining destinations for young and old. The reason has been the emphasis on looking after the whole family, and this means that the staff and management will go out of their way to make little ones feel at home with nice gestures like handing out colouring-in paper and crayons, leaving mums and dads to enjoy their evening without being frowned upon for bringing the kids.

The team have recently welcomed new partners Brad and Janine Wolter, formerly of Rocksalt. Chef Brad brings with him a new dimension to the menu which shows that family dining can be as refined as

the best of them; so alongside the pizzas and pastas that have been the mainstay in this restaurant for over forty years, expect to find oven roasted salmon topped with salsa verde butter, served with baby potatoes, calamari and artichoke. Or perhaps a chargrilled eye fillet with garlic potato mash, goats cheese-filled mushrooms, greens and a beef jus.

Wines are sensibly priced and a good range of beers is available. There is ample seating both inside and in the atrium area, and an island kiosk sits at the front of the restaurant ensuring all are contented at the end of their meals with gelati and slushies for the kids and coffee for the grownups.

Quick Facts Manuka Court Bougainville Street, Manuka (see map page 142) Lunch Mon - Fri from noon Dinner Mon - Sat from 5:30pm For bookings Tel 02 6295 9763 Italian cuisine / Family restaurant Starters from $15.00 Mains from $19.00 Desserts from $8.50 Pizzas from $11.00 Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Recent Awards Restaurant & Catering Association (AUS) Winner Best Family Restaurant 2003 Restaurant & Catering Association (ACT) Winner Best Family Restaurant 2008 Winner Best Family Restaurant 2007 Finalist Best Family Restaurant 2006 Winner Best Family Restaurant 2005 Finalist Best Family Restaurant 2004 Australian Hotels Association (ACT) Finalist Best Family Restaurant 2008 Winner Best Family Restaurant 2007 Winner Best Family Restaurant 2006

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With beautifully presented slow cooked standards and a banquet menu of unlimited serves, the menu certainly delivers

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ith beautifully presented slow cooked standards and a banquet menu of unlimited serves, the menu certainly delivers. Scorching southern flavours and the north's aromatic fare are given equal standing by owner Venkatesh Ramachandran. A fiery, yet flavoursome, Vindaloo is his hallmark.

"It's not tongue-burning hot," he explains. "It's a head rush that comes from a mix of aromatic and heated spices". Kadhai dishes – wok fried

and served on a sizzling platter – are also popular, stealing the scene every time they're served. Of course, the menu includes a variety of choices, including mild curries for those who prefer to protect their taste buds, scores of vegetarian delights and Tandoori breads baked to order.

Plus, any dish can be adapted to suit special diets or individual tastes. Australian wines are available, along with Indian beers, such as Kingfisher and Taj Mahal.

Lunch Mon - Fri noon- 2pm Dinner 7 nights 6pm- 10pm For bookings Tel 02 6295 7037 or 02 6295 6277 www.jewelofindia.com.au Indian cuisine Starters from $7.50 Mains from $15.90 Desserts from $7.00 Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only

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W i t h v i e w s o v e r B o u g a i n v i l l e Str e e t a n d a w e l c o m e at m o s p h e r e , J e w e l o f I n d i a i s c o n s i d e r e d o n e o f th e m o r e g e n t e e l d e s t i n at i o n s s e r v i n g a uth e nti c I n d i a n cuisine in Canberra

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15 Flinders Way Manuka (see map page 142) Lunch 7 days 11:30pm - 2.30pm Dinner 7 nights from 5pm

G i n s e n g h a s n o w w o n t h e A C T R e sta u r a nt & C ate r i n g a w a r d f o r C h i n e s e r e s ta u r a nt f o r th e f i f th ye a r i n a r o w – o n e o f t h o s e b e i n g th e 2 007 n ati o n a l awa r d – t h e r e b y c o n f i r m i n g t h e i r p o s iti o n a s a m u st v i s it s p o t f o r h u n g r y tr a v e l l e r s

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he secret of success here is an uncomplicated Chinese menu with hints of Western technique employed by owner and chef Rockie Cheung in this lively double storey restaurant with Flinders Street views. Rockie is a Canberra boy, completing his apprenticeship locally, before working at Sydney's Opera House and Radisson Plaza. If he spends more time overseeing his other venture at the Hellenic Club in Woden these days, his father Tung Shing, a traditional Chinese chef with many years of experience in the local industry, makes things happen in the kitchen, whilst coowner Judy Tran is on hand to make things run

smoothly at the front. The result is a refined and scrumptious menu that impresses sufficiently with dishes such as chicken, sausage and beancurd hotpot; or prawn, ginger and shallot with baby bok choy. Some other Asian flavours creep into the menu with great success, such as a very delicately flavoured wasabi steak or one of the very good laksas.The mix of cuisines means a unique serving style – both individual starters and mains, and some 80 dishes for sharing are options. The dining rooms have recently been made over and now feature relaxed cream and brown interiors along with glass windows on both floors which fold open for al fresco dining in the warmer months.

For bookings Tel 02 6260 8346 Fax 02 6260 8347 Modern Chinese cuisine Starters from $3.40 Mains from $12.80 Desserts from $7.00 Vegetarian dishes from $10.80 Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Recent Awards Restaurant & Catering Association (AUS) Best Chinese Restaurant 2007 Restaurant & Catering Association (ACT) Best Chinese Restaurant 2008 Restaurant & Catering Association (ACT) Best Chinese Restaurant 2007 Restaurant & Catering Association (ACT) Best Chinese Restaurant 2006 Restaurant & Catering Association (ACT) Best Chinese Restaurant 2005 Restaurant & Catering Association (ACT) Best Chinese Restaurant 2004

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Mecca Bah fa n s o f m o r r o cc a n an d m i d d le easte r n flavo u r s wi ll n ot b e d i s a p p o i n te d i f th e y h e a d t o t h i s st y l i s h a n d o p u l e n t e at e r y at t h e a p e x o f man u k a te r r ac e

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or the past three years Mecca Bah has been creating a menu reliant on adventurous use of exotic herbs and spices to create distinctive flavour combinations. Under the watchful eye of head chef James Rivard, the subtle flavours and fragrant spice combinations are drawn together with quality Australian produce to create a modern interpretation of Moroccan and Middle Eastern cuisine. The innovative menu encourages guests to taste a range flavours in an informal, communal dining experience. Meze are served in hand made serving dishes from Tunisia and include Turkish kofte with yoghurt and mint sauce and kataifi pastries filled with Middle Eastern cheeses.

Award-winning Turkish pizzas, such as roast pumpkin, chilli, pomegranate jam and feta, and classic tagines, including lamb with preserved lemon, green olive and harissa, are always popular menu choices. A stunning water feature beckons invitingly out the front of Mecca Bah’s alfresco dining area. Warm colours, soft cushions, and Middle Eastern trimmings, such as rows of colourful tagine pots and intricate mosaic wallpaper, decorate the restaurant with deep banquette lounges, allowing guests to soak up the ambience.

An intimate private dining room offers some privacy for larger groups, with exquisite lead-light lanterns adding to the illusion of a traditional Moroccan eating house. all images supplied by mecca group

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Quick Facts 25-29 The Terrace, Cnr Franklin Street and Flinders Way, Manuka (see map page 142) Open Mon Fri Lunch noon - 3pm Dinner 6 - 10pm Sat - Sun noon - 10pm For bookings Tel 02 6260 6700 www.meccabah.com Moroccan & Middle Eastern cuisine Meze from $4.80 Mains from $16.30 Desserts from $8.80 Fully licensed

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The Wine & Cheese Providore F r o m th e p e o p le th at b r o u g ht yo u M e cc a Ba h, th i s o n e sto p s h o p f o r f i n e w i n e s a n d a rti s a n p r o d u c e i s c r e ati n g a b uzz at th e to p o f M a n u k a Te r r a c e. G r a b a c o f f e e to g o, o r s it a n d r e l a x w ith a c h e e s e p l ate a n d yo u r fav o u r ite d r o p

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he Wine & Cheese Providore in Manuka is a must visit for lovers of fine wine, artisan cheeses and excellent produce. This gorgeous cafĂŠ, specialty grocer and bottle shop offers fabulous produce driven breakfasts, drawing on much of the specialty product available in store. Open from early morning seven days a week, the good food continues all day with a cafĂŠ menu and fresh sandwiches, baguettes, salads and cakes to take away that have all been made on the premises.

Inside, one is surrounded by the delicious aromas of premium local and imported artisan cheese, fresh bread and great coffee. The mezzanine

level offers intimate seating inside the store, alongside the action of the open kitchen and cheese display. The bottle shop, staffed with friendly knowledgeable assistants, stocks a variety of wines from the everyday tipple to rare and unusual bottles for cellaring and special occasions.

Those with time to relax can have a seat and enjoy a coffee or a glass of wine, or create their own sumptuous cheese, antipasto platter or a simple charcuterie platter with crusty baguette. On your way out, browse the shelves for great gift ideas, or pick up some great pasta, pasta sauce and ingredients for a quick and healthy dinner.

Quick Facts Shop 9-10 Manuka Terrace Flinders Way, Manuka (see map page 142) Open 7 days a week Providore open 7am - 6pm Bottle shop Open Sun - Thu 10am - 9pm Fri - Sat 10am - 10 Tel 02 6134 6682

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Wasabi Manuka Quick Facts Shop 7 / 18 Flinders Way, Manuka (see map page 142) Lunch Tue - Sun noon - 3pm Dinner Tue - Sun 6pm - 11pm For bookings Tel 02 6295 8777 Japanese cuisine Starters from $19.90 Mains from $24.90 Sides from $6.90 Sushi from $7.90 Sashimi from $18.00 Teppanyaki a la carte from $25.90 Teppanyaki set menu from $33.90 Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only

Flinders way is slowly gaining ground on the more well known Franklin street when it comes to good dining options in Manuka. Wasabi, located at The Terrace is one of the newer establishments making it happen, and finally bringing Japanese cuisine to this popular inner south dining destination

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ollowing in the footsteps of its sister restaurant in Dickson, Wasabi delivers a quality experience for lovers of Japanese food on the southside. At the front of the dining room, teppanyaki grills surrounded by communal benches proclaim the speciality here.

But this restaurant does much more than practice this well known and loved food theatre. Sit away from the grills – in a more intimate setting – and order off the menu and you won’t be disappointed as the intricacies of this particular cuisine are well represented here. Spiny lobster

tail, for example, is hibachi charcoal grilled, then tossed with yuzu citrus and garlic sauce and served on a wakamu seaweed salad; or the most tender eye fillet is stuffed with scallops and pan fried with a cracked black pepper glaze. The Sushi and sashimi platter is certainly a triumph of presentation: a medley of sashimi, nigiri sushi and maki sushi, all delicately enhanced with wasabi or soy sauce and vinegared ginger. Wasabi has indoor and outdoor seating, or if you want to avoid the bustle, an impressive looking private room is also available for group bookings.

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Verve CafĂŠ & Bar C a s u a l d i n i n g a n d a l l d ay c o f f e e a r e th e h a l l m a r ks o f th i s v i b r a nt M a n u k a r e sta u r a nt a n d c a fĂŠ. D r o p i n o n a s u n ny w e e ke n d f o r a r e l a xe d b r u n c h o r o n a ny e v e n i n g f o r d i n n e r w ith e v e ry th i n g

Quick Facts Cnr Franklin Street & Flinders Way, Manuka (see map page 142) Lunch 7 days noon - 2:30pm Dinner 7 days 6pm - 10pm Breakfast from 9am Coffee all day from 10:30am weekdays from 9am weekends For bookings Tel 02 6239 4666 www.vervecafebar.com.au Modern Australian cuisine Starters $11.90 Mains $20.90 Pastas & Risottos $17.90 Breakfast from $9.90 Light meals from $11.90 Fully licensed Good vegetarian and gluten-free options

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n the sun-soaked corner of Franklin street and Flinders way, you will find Verve, a busy and bustling restaurant that has won a solid following of Canberrans and visitors looking for a fun place to get together. Whilst the menu is fresh and creative, and the service eager, the reason so many keep coming back is that they may simply enjoy the overall ambience of the place. It may be the large window fascia that allows them to see the world go by even when dining within the modern dining room, or it may be that they enjoy catching up with friends around the gorgeous stone fireplace, coffee or cocktails in hand. The Verve menu is billed as Modern Australian, with Asian and Mediterranean influences dominating the eclectic and wide ranging choices.

Starters may be pan fried scallops served in a rocket and grape salad with crispy prosciutto and finished with a fresh pomegranate and sumac dressing; mains may feature rosemary and garlic crusted eye fillet on olive oil roasted kipflers with jus and piquant tomato salsa, or bouillabaisse with green peas, jasmine rice and crostini. The wine list is wide ranging and cocktails are a speciality, whilst brunch is popular every day of the week.

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Whilst the menu is fresh and creative, and the service eager, the reason so many keep coming back is that they may simply enjoy the overall ambience of the place

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My Café For over 15 years, My Café has been one of Canberra’s most well known meeting places And for more reasons than one.

Surrounded by the inner south’s most popular bars and cafés, My Café takes in vast views of Manuka’s lively Franklin Street

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ffering a wide selection of restaurant quality food at café prices, the modern Australian menu has a touch of the Mediterranean but owner Angelo Petrides sums it up in two words: “comfort food”. Old favourites such as Caesar salad, sirloin steak and hearty burgers rule the menu here, almost always accompanied by chips or wedges. The lamb jumbuck, however, remains the biggest seller. Lamb tenderloins marinated in bush herbs are served on a bed of salad and topped with home-made tomato and basil

sauce. Almost as popular is the chicken breast fillet baked with Tasmanian brie, pine nuts and spinach, with a berry glaze. My Café is also a popular breakfast spot and serves its breakfast menu until 5pm every day. The outdoor area is bustling all day long, especially on sunny Canberra days. In winter, outdoor heaters keep the al fresco devotees warm and toasty and allow for Manuka's favourite pastime of people watching to continue uninterrupted. All in all, here is a place where you can easily lose track of time as you watch the world go by.

Quick Facts Franklin Street, Manuka (see map page 142) Sun - Wed 8am - 10:30pm Thu 8am - 11pm Fri - Sat 8am - midnight Tel 02 6295 6632 Modern café cuisine Breakfast from $9.50 Light meals from $6.00 Lunch mains from $9.80 Dinner mains from $16.50 Desserts from $8.00 Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only

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My Café takes in vast views of Manuka’s lively Franklin Street and offers a wide selection of restaurant quality food

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First Floor B u zz i n g a n d m e tr o p o l ita n — th e e s s e n c e o f F i r st F l o o r i s f i n e d i n i n g i n a n i n d u str i a l s e t ti n g , w h e t h e r f o r r o m a n c e o r f u n c ti o n s

Quick Facts Jardine Street Green Square Kingston (see map page 142) Lunch Tue - Fri noon - 2pm Dinner Mon - Sat from 6pm For bookings Tel 02 6260 6311 Fax 02 6260 6363 www.firstfloor.net.au Modern Australian Starters from $13.90 Mains from $18.90 Desserts $14.90 Soup from $12.90 Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Recent Awards AHA (AUS) Best Restaurant 2008-09 AHA (ACT) Best Restaurant 2008 AHA (ACT) Best Restaurant 2005

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pstairs and over-looking Green Square, it’s the perfect place to survey Kingston’s action, especially in warm weather when the windows fold open for a balcony effect. Locally trained and with experience in some of Canberra and Sydney’s best restaurants, owner and executive chef Darren Perryman creates simple and tasty food, with award-winning results. The Golden Calamari is a crowd pleaser, dusted with chilli salt, as are the melt-in-the-mouth Lamb Shanks, slow braised and set on creamy mash. The real delight is that most meals come in entrée and main sizes. Not that First Floor is only for diners — there’s plenty of room at the bar for drinks. In fact, cocktails are a specialty and various entrées double as bar snacks.

There’s also a superb selection of Australian wines, including a few from the Capital region. Darren has also been busy recently with the opening of his café, Double Shot, in Deakin, so if you find yourself in the area drop in for a quality espresso or light meal.

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La Rustica Trattoria

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Quick Facts 35 Kennedy Street, Kingston (see map page 142)

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Italian / Family Restaurant

Lunch Mon - Fri noon - 2pm Dinner Mon - Sun 6pm- 10pm For bookings Tel 02 6295 0152

Starters from $14.90 Mains from $18.90 Desserts from $10.90 Pizza from $13.90 Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Recent Awards MIX106.3 & ACT Tourism Best Of In Canberra – Winner Canberra’s Best Restaurant 2005

F r o m t h e wa r m r u sti c f it-o ut to t h e fa m i l i a r a r o m a s o f f r e s h g a r l i c, b a s i l a n d r o s e m a ry, L a R u s ti c a f e e l s a b it l i ke a h o l i d ay i n s o uth e r n Ita ly — Th e c u i s i n e i s a uth e nti c

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family run business, La Rustica has been indulging Canberra taste buds for 15 years with a huge selection of reliably good Italian dishes including pasta, homemade gnocchi, veal, chicken, beef and of course, pizza. The chefs emigrated from the stunning Calabrian coastline of Mare Ionico, bringing with them the region’s culinary secrets. The simple Gnocchi Sorrento - rich tomato and basil sauce - is somehow perfect without all the fuss, while the Spaghetti Pescatore - fresh seafood, garlic, white wine, chilli and tomato sauce - gives marinara the edge. Seafood dishes are common in Calabria so expect a good selection here. La Rustica’s casual environment makes it a great family venue, reminiscent of a neighbourhood trattoria. Like the menu, La Rustica’s wine list is big. It offers Australian, New Zealand and Italian wines and helps make lunch or dinner the complete Italian dining experience.

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La Rustica’s casual environment makes it a great family venue and the combination of popular and regional dishes ensure there’s something for everyone

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Figaro It ’ s a j o y t o f i n d a r e s ta u r a nt th at b a l a n c e s a wa r m a n d f r i e n d ly a m b i e n c e w i t h g r e at f o o d , a n d t h at i s e x a c tly w h at F i g a r o o w n e r J o h n B a r o n e h a s m a n a g e d to a c h i e v e

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e is, however, the first to give credit to his team. Manager Jemma Gundry makes one immediately comfortable by her genuine warmth, effortlessly chatting with everyone from local families to some of the most influential figures in business and government. In the kitchen Chef Nino Pagano – a true artisan – works with passion, combining decades of experience in the kitchens of Rome with fresh local ingredients, creating classic tastes rarely found in such an accessible setting. Simple things are done well.

Pastas such as fettucine and gnocchi are made in house, with sauces that cannot hide their origins. Traditional Genovese style pesto, for

example, is teamed with sun-dried tomatoes and served with any pasta that diners choose. But a look at the menu or blackboard confirms that seafood and meat dishes are truly the drawcard here. Swordfish and salmon feature prominently, as does veal in typical Italian style.

Popular choices also include lamb cutlets and char grilled beef dishes.

A good wine list is offered, along with a selection of Italian liqueurs and desserts to finish.

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Quick Facts 17 Kennedy Street, Kingston (see map page 142) Lunch Wed - Fri 11:30am - 2pm Dinner 7 nights from 6pm For bookings Tel 02 6232 6922 Italian / Family Restaurant Starters from $15.90 Mains from $22.90 Desserts from $10.90 Pizza from $22.90 Takeaway available $17.00 lunch special available weekdays Earlybird special Mon - Thu 20% off before 7pm Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only

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La Dolce Vita Ov e r th e ye a r s, L a D o lc e V ita h a s b e c o m e a n i n stituti o n i n th e le a f y i n n e r s o uth s u b u r b o f Ki n g sto n. D i n i n g h e r e f o r th e f i r st ti m e, o n e m ay s e n s e a fa m i li a l wa r mth i n th i s r u sti c e ate ry

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any patrons will know the menu off by heart – and the waiting staff by name. Many will have frequented a number of restaurants, over the past twenty years or so, operated by charismatic owner and chef Salvatore. Certainly, this restaurant has not escaped the attention of neighbourhood regulars, or high ranking pollies when parliament is sitting. Plate-sized pizzas are always good with ingredients such as prosciutto or ham off the bone, fresh mushrooms or artichokes. Pastas range from standards like

Spaghetti Marinara, an ample serve with fresh seafood done in tomato or cream, or specials of the house such as the Penne Mosco Vita, a great tasting combination of vodka, smoked salmon and cream. The standout, however, is the ricotta filled ravioli. Made fresh daily by Salvatore’s mother Anna, a forty-year veteran of the restaurant game, it is served with a simple sauce of tomato and basil and should not be missed.

Mains include a number of traditional dishes such as Saltimbocca – a stack of pan-fried veal and bacon with a bay leaf sauce.

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Quick Facts 34 Giles Street, Kingston (see map page 142) Lunch Tue - Fri noon - 2pm Dinner 7 nights from 6pm For bookings Tel 02 6295 7877 Italian cuisine Starters from $11.90 Mains from $21.90 Desserts from $9.90 Pastas from $16.90 Pizzas from $17.50 Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only

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An i mag i native approach to food is what own e rs Jacky an d Ru by Woo de live r i n th is colou rfu l an d fri e n dly restau rant. Jacky an d h is ch e fs conti n ually re fi n e th e Woo fam i ly reci pes that make th is restau rant so popu lar

Quick Facts 38 Giles Street, Kingston (see map page 142) Lunch Tue - Fri noon - 2.30pm Dinner Tue - Sun 5 - 10pm Closed Mondays For bookings Tel 02 6100 6582 or 02 6232 6932 www.madamwoo.com.au Modern Asian cuisine Starters from $6.00 Mains from $14.80 Desserts from $7.50 Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only

Traditional Woo family recipes are refined to complement the climate and the wide variety of wines and beers that are enjoyed in Australia

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he philosophy behind Madam Woo’s cuisine that makes it unique is that “each continent has its own distinct flavour, therefore the food must be adapted to suit its environment”. Traditional Woo family recipes are refined to complement the climate and the wide variety of wines and beers that are enjoyed in Australia. Madam Woo offers dishes of mostly Malaysian, Thai, Singaporean, Chinese, and Vietnamese origins, such as coconut lime chicken, red curry prawns, along with laksa, which they are becoming well known for. On the floor, efficient and cheerful service is managed

by Jacky’s wife, Ruby. Whilst the restaurant looks quite small from the street, there are two distinct dining areas here. Out the back a rustic looking space is ideal for larger groups while the fit-out at the front is vibrant and funky and, like the food, adds its own distinct flavour to the dining scene of Kingston.

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Vasco's Portuguese Charcoal Grill Va s c o 's P o r tu g u e s e C h a r c o a l G r i l l , o n Ki n g s t o n’s G i l e s St r e e t, i s o n e o f th e f e w r e sta u r a n t s o f f e r i n g a u t h e nt i c P o rt u g u e s e c u i s i n e i n C a n b e r r a. Th e m e n u f e at u r e s a g r e at s e l e c ti o n o f g r i l l e d s e a f o o d a n d m e at d i s h e s, a n d o f c o u r s e , b a r b e c u e d c h i c k e n s e r v e d w it h t h e q u i nt e s s e nt i a l P i r i-P i r i s a u c e

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utterflied, marinated and grilled, it fills the restaurant with a mouth watering aroma, ensuring that it is the most popular dish on the menu. Platters are also available to share, and seem to be the best way to enjoy this kind of cuisine if one is dining with a sizeable group, allowing

diners to sample much of what is good here.

That said, a selection of tapas dishes are slowly making their way onto the menu as Vasco’s embraces this casual and fun style of dining, as is evidenced by choices like sardines escabeche or chourico sausage served flamed with Portugal’s version of grappa, aguardente.

Also worth a try are a range of surprisingly good wines from the Iberian peninsular which complement the food beautifully, along with a list of premium Aussies. Soft blue and yellow tones, along with some rustic touches to the décor, help create a dining space with an unpretentious and relaxed atmosphere.

Portuguese cuisine Starters from $10.00 Mains from $22.00 Desserts from $10.00 Fully licensed Recent Awards Restaurant & Catering Association (ACT) Finalist European Restaurant 2007 Restaurant & Catering Association (ACT) Finalist European Restaurant 2006 Restaurant & Catering Association (ACT) Winner European Restaurant 2005

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amed after Chiang Rai, a region in the north of Thailand, Thai Chiang Rai has consistently offered authentic and sometimes unique dishes that have impressed enough to see it win awards for Thai cooking in the ACT on a number of occasions.

Whilst many lovers of this cuisine are drawn by the usual, and very well executed, array of green and red curries, or the ever popular pad thai, those in the know come seeking owner and chef Noy Phachantharong’s list of house specials.

Although he recently took over the restaurant from long time owner Nat Chaiyabam, he has been running the kitchen for the last six years

and been a major factor in its success. Typical to his repertoire are duck legs cooked in herbs and spices and served with figs and steamed asparagus; or scallops stir fried with basil, mild chilli, onion, shallots and snowpeas and topped with macadamia nuts; chicken fillets grilled and served with a Thai paw-paw salad and may be served with the traditional Thai sticky rice. The interior is surprisingly warm and cosy for such a large space. Ceilings are high and interior details are painted in blue and yellow with bold touches of red, and walls are adorned with the occasional authentic item, such as a gorgeous handmade golden tapestry.

48 Giles Street, Kingston (see map page 142) Lunch Mon - Sat noon - 2:30pm Dinner Mon - Sun 5 - 10pm For bookings Tel 02 6232 6999 www.thaichiangrai.com.au Thai cuisine Starters from $8.90 Mains from $15.90 Desserts from $5.90 Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Recent Awards Restaurant & Catering Association (ACT) Finalist Thai Restaurant 2008 Restaurant & Catering Association (ACT) Finalist Thai Restaurant 2007 Restaurant & Catering Association (ACT) Winner Thai Restaurant 2006 Restaurant & Catering Association (ACT) Winner Thai Restaurant 2005 Restaurant & Catering Association (AUS) Finalist Thai Restaurant 2006 Restaurant & Catering Association (AUS) Finalist Thai Restaurant 2005

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Hoang Hau HOAN G HAU IS A C HEERFUL NEI G HBOURHOOD PLAC E THAT HAS BUILT UP A LOYAL FOLLOWIN G OF LO CALS DUE TO ITS UNPRETENTIOUS ATMOSPHERE AND G REAT VIETNAMESE FOOD

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overs of fresh Vietnamese flavours such as basil, mint, coriander and lemongrass will not be disappointed here, and this restaurant, run by Simon and Ann Lam, is one of the few places that get it right with this cuisine. Classic Pho is perfect: rare beef strips and fresh basil share the limelight with rice noodles in a delicious clear broth, with a touch of chilli. Chargrilled and marinated meatballs are served with a small boat of peanut sauce to

dip, as are stuffed crispy skin chicken wings.

Main dishes may be a roast duck and paw paw salad, crispy, fresh and summery with a touch of coriander. A rich beef stew with thick red sauce and lemongrass shoots is more European in flavour, with the inclusion of tomato an indication of Vietnam’s French colonial past.

Service is warm and accommodating in the way that one would expect from a restaurant of this nature. The interior is simple and colourful,

and large sheets of coloured paper, stuck to the walls advertising specials, are a cute touch.

Vegetarians are well catered for and will find a page on the menu dedicated to them. The wine list is concise and reasonably priced, featuring drops from South Australia, Victoria and Western Australia; and those who believe that beer goes best with these flavours will have a number of Asian beers to choose from, including a malty ‘333’ from Vietnam.

Quick Facts Lunch Mon - Sat 11am - 2.30pm Dinner Mon - Sat 5pm - late For bookings Tel 02 6295 0318 Vietnamese cuisine

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E.U. Café Quick Facts Griffith Shops Barker Street, Griffith (see map page 142) Breakfast Tue - Sun 7 - 11am Lunch Tue - Sun 11.30am - 2.30pm Dinner Tue - Sun 6 - 10pm Coffee & cakes Tue - Sun 7am - 10pm For bookings Tel 02 6295 6915 www.eucafe.com.au Modern European cuisine Breakfast from $9.00 Lunch from $12.00 Dinner from $16.00 Starters from $9.00 Desserts from $12.00 Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Gluten free and vegetarian needs well catered for

Th e u n ite d f l av o u r s o f E u r o p e a r e to b e f o u n d i n th i s h i g h q u a l it y c a fÉ i n o n e o f th e i n n e r s o uth’s fa v o u r ite s u b u r b a n e at s t r e e t s

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hilst it has been the trend lately for restaurants or cafés to locate to the quieter local shops in the inner suburbs, Barker street at Griffith shops has been known for years as a dining destination.

Just a kilometre away from Manuka and home to half a dozen eateries, it is here you will find E.U. Café. The energy, passion and experience that has come with a young and dynamic new ownership team are evident from one’s first visit. Executive chef and co-owner Shane Delamont has created a refined menu of European cuisine that is expertly prepared and crafted by his youthful team. Dishes that would be suited to more formal premises are nonetheless appreciated by locals who enjoy the casual neighbourhood café atmosphere. The food is complemented by polite, friendly and enthusiastic front-of-house team, led by co-owner Ryan Davies. Open six days a week for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or simply a great coffee and dessert, E.U. Café is well suited for any occasion from a Sunday brunch through to a romantic dinner for two.

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La Cantina OLD AND NEW ARE C OMBINED IN A UNI Q UE SETTIN G, WITH RUSTI C ITALIAN FOOD PERFE C TLY FRAMED BY C LASSI C V ISUAL C UES IN THIS NARRABUNDAH RESTAURANT

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ou could be forgiven for thinking this restaurant has been here for a hundred years, but that is testament to the vision of food veterans Domenic and Ornella Celestino. Their brand new venture has just opened at Narrabundah shops – down the road from most inner south hotels – and is promising to deliver a classic Italian experience both in food and atmosphere. The fitout is vault-like, with imported salvaged bricks used extensively in the formation of walls and arches, giving an almost subterranean feel to this mediterranean noshery. Heavy framed baroque artworks adorn the wine coloured walls; and parquetry floors, deep brown bench seats and mood lighting complete the picture. Cuisine is straight from the Italian countryside, and aromas from the wood fired oven drift freely through the restaurant. Whilst crusty and mouth watering pizzas are certainly the main product of the oven, expect to see it turning out traditional roasts like goat, lamb or pork, matched with

simple and fresh ingredients. Typical is the roasted pork loin with lemon and thyme, served with baby broad beans and a sweet balsamic and red Tropea onion jam. Pastas are house made and include duck filled ravioli with cherry tomatoes and basil in a light cream sauce.

‘La Cantina’ means cellar in Italian, so in keeping with the theme, pick a Penfolds Grange or a Brunello Di Montalcino from the glass walled wine cellar which stocks vintage wines from Australia and Italy – some up to forty years old. The passion for coffee is also evident here with the Celestino's own label, personally selected and grown in Vietnam, sold to drink or take home.

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Quick Facts Narrabundah Shops, 4 Iluka Street, Narrabundah (see map page 142) Lunch Mon - Fri noon - 2.30pm Dinner 7 nights 6 - 10.30pm For bookings Tel 02 6239 5556 Italian cuisine Starters from $13.50 Mains from $27.00 Pastas & Risottos from $18.00 Pizzas from $18.00 Desserts from $12.00 Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Celestino brand coffee available for retail

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Belluci’s Woden Quick Facts Corner of Launceston and Irving Streets Woden (see map page 142) Lunch Mon - Fri Noon - 2.30pm Dinner 7 nights 6-10.30pm For bookings Tel 02 6282 1700 www.bellucis.com.au/woden Modern Italian cuisine starters from $12.90 pizzas from $17.90 mains from $18.90 desserts $12.90

C a n b e r r a’s m o st recognisable r e sta u r a nt n a m e c o nti n u e s to pa c k th e m i n o n th e s o uth s i d e w ith it s ta ke o n Ita l i a n c u i s i n e i n a s m a rt an d cas ual s etti n g

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elluci’s Woden resides on the ground floor of a beautiful purpose built building in the Woden area, and caters to those diners who are looking for a little more than just a quick bite in this part of town. Not far from most hotels in the inner south, the quick drive or taxi ride will not go unrewarded if you wish to explore a little further than the usual Manuka or Kingston eat streets. The menu may include starters such as an Italian crispy skinned quail dish on spinach and mushroom risotto with an orange ginger glaze or an antipasto platter for two, with calamari, prosciutto and olives, alongside decidedly non-Italian dips with Turkish bread. Pizzas can be as simple as a Margherita, with its tomato, mozzarella and basil, or the Belluci's special – smoked chicken, bacon, avocado, spanish onion and caesar dressing. Mains feature an array of tantalising veal and chicken dishes, and there is always an impressive “fish of the day” on the blackboard. The atmosphere is smart and casual in this lovely building that takes its cue from historic Canberra buildings like the Sydney and Melbourne Buildings in the city, and the space caters equally well to intimate tables for two or large groups.

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Not far from most hotels

in the inner south, the quick drive or taxi ride will not go unrewarded if you wish to explore a little further than the usual Manuka or Kingston eat streets

Nightlife On the northside, try one of the major multi-levelled pubs in the city, or go for something a little more intimate with cool grooves in Braddon. Experience the Craic on City Walk, come in from the cold war on Northbourne or make a night of it at the casino. On the southside, get a little exotic in Manuka, or mix with the in-crowd in Kingston

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Casino Canberra Quick Facts Glebe Park, 21 Binara Street Canberra City (see map page 140) Open 7 days 12:00pm - 5:45am Dining facilities a la carte 12 - 9pm snacks 12pm - 5:45am Nightclub 9pm - 3am Live entertainment every Friday and Saturday night Tel 02 6257 7074 www.casinocanberra.com.au

Casino Canberra has re-vamped its entertainment, dining and gaming services to offer something for everyone

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o start with, live music is back, and big time, with the best live musicians Canberra has to offer, handpicked by renowned musical director, Ian McLean. You’ll hear world class jazz, sultry Latin, or sizzling swing, all free of charge. The live entertainment is staged just next to the Main Bar, with a superb range of beers, wines, cocktails and spirits on hand. It’s a great place to relax and unwind with sensational live sounds on Fridays and Saturdays from 9pm. The Party Pit is great place to get into casino gaming, and offers great new games (like Three Card Poker) as well as casino classics like Blackjack. It’s designed as a fun, welcoming place with no pressure and lots of friendly staff.

And for all us social players, games like Roulette have very low minimum bets. If you are after a good value meal before heading out on the town,

The Grill Restaurant offers delicious options for lunch and dinner, seven days a week. Select from a range of great entrées, move into mouthwatering mains, and a dessert menu to die for.

Bookings are recommended as this restaurant has become extremely popular. For those watching the poker tournaments on television, there’s a place to try your hand at the game for real.

Casino Canberra has opened a new, expanded poker lounge featuring more tables and more chances to play. To play Texas Hold ‘em, a great way to start is by entering one of the regular tournaments. Casino Canberra strongly believes that it is not just a place just for serious gamers, but a place where everyone is welcome and catered for. It’s warm, welcoming, great fun and one of the best value nights out in town, so put it on your list as a must visit.

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The casino is warm, welcoming, great fun and one of the best value nights out in town, so put it on your list as a must visit

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The Uni Pub W h at d o y o u d o w i th a h e r i ta g e l i s t e d f o r m e r b a n k b u i l d i n g i n th e h e a r t o f C a n b e r r a’s p r o f e s s i o n a l a n d l e g a l p r e c i n c t ? T u r n i t i nto C a n b e r r a’s b i gg e st pu b o f c o u r s e!

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he Uni Pub, located on the corner of University Avenue and London Circuit, is a venue that excites through its sheer ambition.

Australia’s only five storey pub opened just before Christmas 2006 with a view to catering to the growing number of professional workers, uni students and residents on the west side of the expanding CBD, and is certainly worth a visit for thirsty travellers in the city. Each level of this multi storey complex has a fully equipped bar with beer on tap and a great selection of wines & spirits. Each

level is beautifully fitted out in a classic style and each has its own purpose: On street level you will find the Pub Bar, opening out to the street with plenty of outdoor tables for patrons enjoying an after work drink. The first floor offers a restaurant, specialising in grilled pub fare; the second floor is dedicated to pool tables; the third is a lounge bar with a very exclusive feel and the top floor is a nightclub. Canberra’s biggest and newest pub is a great experience for those looking for a place that caters to a number of tastes and activities.

Quick Facts cnr London Cct & University Ave, Canberra City (see map page 140) Open Mon - Fri 11am - late Sat noon - late Tel 02 6247 5576 unipub.com.au Ground Floor – Pub Bar 1st Floor – Bar & Grill 2nd Floor – Pool & Bar level 3rd Floor – Lounge Bar 4th Floor – Elevated Nightclub

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The Uni Pub is a venue that excites through its sheer ambition

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The street and basement levels are laid back and pub style, the top two levels are club dedicated, with sleek

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Mooseheads With fo u r leve ls, an d a d ive r s e c r owd o f p r o f e s s i o n a l s , s p o r t i n g h e r o e s a n d stu d e nt s — M o o s e h e a d s i s o n e o f C a n b e r r a’s m o st i m p r e s s i v e a n d a wa r d - w i n n i n g p u b s a n d n i g ht c l u b s

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ith four levels, and a diverse crowd of professionals, sporting heroes and students — Mooseheads is one of Canberra’s most impressive and award-winning pubs and nightclubs. The street and basement levels are laid back and pub style, with pool tables and comfortable seating. Framed sporting memorabilia reveals a long history supporting local teams.

The bistro serves hearty pub favourites — including steak, fish and chips, and hamburgers — as well as salads, focaccia,

pasta and pizza. Prices will delight and all meals are prepared from scratch. Cover bands and DJs pump up Fridays and the odd weeknight with rock ‘n’ roll classics. The top two levels are club dedicated, with sleek industrial styling. DJs get the dance floor spinning with Top 40 dance and R&B tunes, while ample booths allow chill-out time over classic cocktails or modern spirits, including Jagermeister, Alize or Absinthe. Private and mezzanine, the top floor is perfect for cool functions, from birthdays to launches.

Quick Facts 105 London Circuit, Canberra City (see map page 140) Downstairs opening hours Mon - Wed 11:00am - 3:00am Thu - Sat 11:00am - 5:00am Upstairs opening hours Thu - Sat 9:00pm - 5:00am Mon - Wed available for functions Tel 02 6257 6496 www.mooseheads.com.au

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Kremlin Bar LO CATED AT STREET LEVEL ON CANBERRA’S MAIN DRAG, NORTHBOURNE AVENUE, YOU WILL FIND THIS FUNKY C OLD-WAR INSPIRED BAR. ENJ OY A VODKA MARTINI, STIRRED OR SHAKEN, AND BE SURE TO BRIN G YOUR SHOE PHONE

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ip young things looking to relax with friends over a cool cocktail should make their way to Kremlin Bar and immerse themselves in the plush soviet era red of this busy nightspot. Velvet curtains, crystal chandeliers, dark polished floors and gold leaved furniture all add to the eastern-bloc mystique, and the massive mural on the wall gives a nod to socialist propaganda posters of a now lost era. Russian beers and vodka are the drinks of choice, as is the extensive list of cocktails, mixed expertly by the smartly uniformed staff. Music is smooth and chilled on weeknights, to complement Kremlin Kocktails on Wednesdays or Kremlin Happy Hour on Fridays. A regular procession of locally known DJs keep this funky split level space more upbeat on Saturday nights with Kremlin Spin. With easy access and within walking distance of most of the northside’s hotels, Kremlin Bar is well worth a visit to meet some groovy locals, or just to confirm that it’s better to be red than dead.

Quick Facts Ground Floor, 65 Northbourne Ave, Canberra City (see map page 140) (In the Novotel Hotel complex between the Qantas Travel office and the Jolimont Centre entrance)

Tel 02 6257 7779 www.kremlinbar.com.au Open Wed - Thu 5pm til late Fri 4pm til late | Sat 7pm til late Closed Sun - Tue (available for private functions) Wednesdays - Kremlin Kocktails Cocktail specials 5pm to 7pm Fridays - Kremlin Happy Hour Be happy from 5pm to 7pm Saturdays - Kremlin Spin Resident and guest DJs mixing it up from 9pm till late

Russian beers and vodka are the drinks of choice, as is the extensive list of cocktails,

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B Bar L o c at e d i n K e n n e d y St r e e t K i n g sto n, B B a r i s o n e o f C a n b e r r a’ s p r e m i e r n i g h t l i f e v e n u e s

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eeknights kick off at around 3pm with a great selection of delicious tapas sized bites available as accompaniments to the great range of bottled and tap beers and well respected wines that have made this bar a favourite destination for the after work crowd in the inner south. Temptation Tuesdays feature complimentary tapas from 6pm. A great selection of cocktails may include such treats as Berry Balsamic, a fusion of strawberries, vodka and balsamic vinegar; or Sam’s Sour, with Absolut Citron, Cointreau and sugar. As the weekend

beckons, hip young things and partygoers infiltrate. An impromptu dance space rules the centre of the room as DJs play funky house beats to the enthusiastic crowd. The modern bar space is subtle – olive and metallic décor, smart light fittings, groovy ottomans – and the heated courtyard area in the rear is one of the biggest outdoor drinking spaces in Canberra, great in summer and winter. On Sundays – between 4pm and 9pm – $6 Coronas and two for one bubblies feature with DJs or live bands providing entertainment.

Quick Facts 21 Kennedy Street, Kingston (see map page 142) Open 7 days 3pm til late Tel 02 6295 1949 www.bbarkingston.com.au Temptation Tuesdays Complimentary tapas from 6pm

An impromptu dance space rules the centre of the room as DJs play funky house beats to the enthusiastic crowd

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The Bah Th e p o p u l a r M e cc a B a h r e s ta u r a nt i s n o w j o i n e d by Th e B a h, a n i nti m ate a n d st y l i s h b a r th at i s s i tu ate d o n Th e Te r r a c e, d i r e c t ly o p p o s it e M e cc a B a h l o o ki n g o u t o v e r M a n u k a

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he Bah offers diners an ideal spot to meet a group of friends before dinner at Mecca Bah, a drink before the movies, or just as a sophisticated, cosy space to enjoy the smart cocktail list, exceptional wine list and ambient music. Mecca Bah provides a modern interpretation of Moroccan and Middle Eastern cuisine and The Bah continues on the theme, with a small bar menu featuring Middle Eastern flavours available throughout the day and

night including Mecca Bah’s award-winning Turkish pizzas. The Bah offers a vast array of beverage options. Exotic cocktail pitchers such as Rosewater and Berry punch, or large format beers for two or more people to share, as well as a range of interesting wines, both international and domestic. The style is similar to Mecca Bah with warm colours, soft cushions, and exotic Middle Eastern furnishings, yet has its own unique twist and is a hot new destination in its own right.

Quick Facts Located in front of Mecca Bah 25-29 Manuka Terrace, Flinders Way, Manuka (see map page 142) Open 7 days a week noon - 1am Tel 02 6260 6700 www.meccabah.com

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Knightsbridge also features a funky and intimate back courtyard spray painted by some of Canberra’s best

graffiti artists

Knightsbridge Penthouse N o m i n at e d a s o n e o f A u s t r a l i a’s b e st c o c kta i l b a r s, K n i g ht s b r i d g e P e n t h o u s e i s s i m p ly c o o l , b l e n d i n g t h e b e st o f m o d e r n a n d o l d -t i m e B o h e m i a n s t yl e

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eating is ample and cosy, mirroring the feeling of a stylish lounge room.

Chandeliers, candles and fibre optics lighting is intimate and equally eclectic.

Knightsbridge also features a funky and intimate back courtyard. Spray painted by some of Canberra’s best graffiti artists, it is perfect for a sunny afternoon or a warm evening. Quality is the essential ingredient in all drinks, with top shelf or boutique spirits, and cocktails based on fresh ingredients. Australian wines also feature, including some of Canberra best drops. With tunes being spun from an upright piano converted into a DJ booth never too loud,

funk and soul - from Nina Simone and James Brown to the latest tunes - are delivered with excellence by some of Canberra’s and Australia's best DJ's. Thursday night sees $10 cocktails, while Friday Happy Hour boasts a free barbecue from 5pm-8pm. Check out “Silver Sundays” for a chance to view locally produced films and discuss industry topics with film industry experts, free of charge. Starting at 5pm, here is a great way to spend a lazy Sunday afternoon. If you like Knightsbridge Penthouse, check out its sister bar Parlour Wine Room in the New Acton development, corner of Marcus Clarke Street and Edinburgh Avenue.

Quick Facts 34 Mort Street, Braddon (see map page 140) Tel 02 6262 6221 Opening hours Summer (1st Oct - 31st Mar) Tue - Wed 5pm - 12am Thu 4pm - 1am Fri 4pm - 4am Sat 2pm - 4am Sun 2pm - 10pm Opening hours Winter (1st Apr - 30th Sep) Tue 6pm - midnight Wed 5pm - midnight Thu 4pm - midnight Fri 4pm - 3am Sat 3pm - 3am Sun 3pm - 10pm

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Binara One

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ontemporary and stylish is the best way to describe Binara one, modelled on European-style bars in international centres such as New York, Paris and Milan. The back-lit bar, long lounge area and modern designer furnishings help to create the perfect spot for after-work drinkers to congregate on weeknights, or the young and the hip on weekends. An upmarket setting with great cocktails, Binara one opens daily from 4pm until late, has an outdoor terrace with seating for the warmer months, and provides funky DJs and vocalists several nights a week.

Quick Facts 1 Binara Street, Canberra City (see map page 140) Open 7 days 4pm til late Tel 02 6247 8999

The back-lit bar, long lounge area and modern designer furnishings help to create the perfect spot

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The King's Snug. The warmer months are best enjoyed in the outdoor beer garden where patrons can soak in the city activity. A pub named after one of the city's founders needs to share in some history, and a fantastic collection of artefacts that date from the 1800s, including a pennyfarthing and a plate from a furfey water cart, are on display. King O'Malleys contributions to the local community have seen it become a hub for Canberrans celebrating the biggest annual events such as St Patricks Day, Movember, and the Leukaemia Foundation's World's Greatest Shave for a Cure, so grab a beer, enjoy the sunshine and meet the locals.

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Open 7 days from 11am Tel 02 6257 0111 www.kingomalleys.com.au

You can catch a live band most nights of the week

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ver ten Irish and Australian beers are available on tap, including Guinness, Kilkenny, Coopers and Bulmer's Cider. There's also a cocktail menu and the finest scotches, including Johnny Walker blue label. Meals are available all day, and include the popular wicklow wedges, BBQ prawns and beef and Guinness pie. You can catch a live band most nights of the week, and on Sunday nights, Irish folk musicians gather round a 100 year old bluegum table to play traditional Irish music. A wonderfully decorated interior has many areas to discover, each with their own unique character and charm, such as the Brewery Room, Blarney Room and

131 City Walk, Canberra City (see map page 140)

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Shopping Head for some retail therapy in the flagship of Canberra’s shopping scene. Find a food market in Belconnen that will impress with quality produce. Explore the city’s boutiques and find urban streetwear, high fashion or designer jewellery. Head to Braddon for quirky and offbeat retailers alongside art galleries. In the inner south Manuka and Kingston are the destinations for boutique shopping with a touch of glamour. Find unique retailers along beautiful tree-lined streets with plenty of spots to grab a coffee

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Canberra Centre Bunda Street, Canberra City Tel 02 6247 5611 Fax 02 6257 5232 customerservice@canberracentre.com.au www.canberracentre.com.au Core Trading Hours Mon - Thu 9.00am - 5.30pm Friday 9.00am - 9.00pm Saturday 9.00am - 5.00pm Sunday 10.00am - 4.00pm Public holidays 10.00am - 4.00pm Please note that some retailers trade outside these hours.

Please consult stores directly.

Major retailers David Jones, Myer, Target, Big W Supabarn Supermarket, ALDI, Dick Smith Powerhouse and Dendy Cinemas

M o r e th a n a s h o p p i n g c e ntr e, C a n b e r r a C e ntr e i s a w o r ld c l a s s, c o nte m p o r a ry a n d i n n ovati v e r e ta i l a n d le i s u r e d e sti n ati o n. C a n b e r r a C e ntr e’s p r e m i u m o f f e r i n c lu d e s th e c r e a m o f A u str a li a’s fa s h i o n r e ta i le r s, a state o f th e a rt e nte rta i n m e nt a n d d i n i n g p r e c i n ct, a lo n g w ith a n u n r i va lle d g o u r m e t f r e s h f o o d p r e c i n ct

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ome to major department stores including David Jones, Myer, Big W, Target and Supabarn, Canberra Centre also boasts over 280 specialty retailers, over 150 of which are unique to the centre. With names such as Saba, Sportscraft, French Connection, Napoleon Perdis, Herringbone, Veronica Maine, Mollini, Peter Alexander, Seduce and Rodd & Gunn, to name a few. Canberra Centre also boasts the city’s only nine-screen cinema – Dendy – offering moviegoers an enticing choice of art house, luxurious premium class

and mainstream cinemas, showing the latest Hollywood blockbusters and independent releases. The centre’s glamorous alfresco streetscape dining precinct – North Quarter – can’t be missed. It features a tempting selection of high quality cafés, fine dining and family restaurants, presented in a relaxed contemporary setting. Canberra Centre has an exciting mix of stores presented in an award winning modern design, with unrivalled visual connections to its surroundings. By all accounts Canberra Centre is a must see destination.

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an exciting mix of stores presented in an award winning modern design, with unrivalled visual connections to its surroundings ‌

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Belconnen Fresh Food Markets A l l o w y o u r s e l f t o e x p l o r e n e w ta s t e s e n s at i o n s w i t h a v a r i e t y o f f r e s h , wh o le s o m e an d o rgan i c pr o d ucts s o u rc e d fr o m all ove r th e co nti n e nt an d th r o u g h o ut th e wo r ld

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he Belconnen Market’s thirty speciality stores offer an array of products with competitive prices and of course, friendly service. There is a range of takeaway and sit down restaurants, so why not relax and try some authentic Tuscan cuisine from Beppe’s or a delicious seafood meal from Fin’s. For gourmet food lovers and entrepreneurs the cooking school, Cooking Co-ordinates offers a range of cooking classes to suit a range of expertise. The cooking school is frequented by such leading chefs as Rick Stein, Margaret Fulton, Geoff Jansz and Elizabeth Chong. On

the weekends the marketplace is bustling with life and vitality with spruikers, great specials and taste testings. The festive atmosphere is enhanced as you enter the Piazza Area, often filled with song, music and dance. The Belconnen Markets is home to Australia’s only Giant Mushroom Adventure Playground.

The playground is a Sunsmart initiative of the markets, supported by the Australian Cancer Society. The mushroom is 6 metres high and has a roof diameter of 15.6 metres covering a total area of 190 square metres. Your kids will enjoy all the features of the playground,

allowing them to play all year round. Parents can supervise their children romping in the playground from the balcony of Fins Seafood Café, whilst enjoying a delicious seafood platter for two or Kilpatrick oysters with a glass of wine. You might even spot Broc the Broccoli, the latest member of the Belconnen Markets team, roaming around and always happy to pose for a photo or interact with the kids (and kids at heart). Visit the Belconnen Markets and experience culture, value and quality.

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Quick Facts Lathlain Street, Belconnen (off Benjamin Way) Tel 02 6251 1680 Open Wed – Sun 8am – 6pm Some stores open 7 days www.belconnenmarkets.com.au

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Perfume BOX “The world’s designers in one box.” Located on Bunda Street, in the heart of the city, you will find Perfume BOX – Canberra’s number one perfumery. This funky little shop stocks the world’s leading designer fragrances for men and women and offers them for less than retail. Exclusive and hard to find brands are their specialty. They are Canberra’s only stockist of the complete range of La Coste, Trussardi and Salvatore Ferragamo. Perfume BOX are exclusive stockists of Salvadore Dali fragrances in the Canberra Region and also stock the complete range of Serje Louis Alvarez SLA Paris cosmetics.

106A Bunda Street, Canberra City Opening Hours Mon - Thu 9.30am - 6pm | Fri 9.30am - 9pm Sat 10am - 5pm | Sun 11am - 4pm Tel 02 6257 7110 Fax 02 6248 9767

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Nunie The girls at Nunie believe that your style is your personal statement. What’s more, they are professionals who know what flatters you, the look that suits you and how to keep your look contemporary. They want to help you feel good and look great! Nunie has been established for over thirty years and boasts Canberra’s widest selection of Australian, New Zealand and European labels with a selection of sizes 8-20. In stock are over 100 designer labels, amongst them Verge, Mela Purdie, Didier Parakian, Marco Polo, Vertice, VSSP, Kathleen Berney, Visage, Lisa Law, Ping Pong, Mosaic, Meredith, Rene Dehry, Philosophy and Seven Sisters.

Canberra House Arcade, Cnr Alinga & Moore Sts, Canberra City opening hours Mon - Thu 9am - 5:30pm Fri 9am - 7pm | Sat 9:30 - 3pm Tel 02 6248 5353

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La Cobbler Shoes Express yourself with a visit to La Cobbler, a gallery of exclusive women’s footwear in the heart of the city. Labels include Alan Pinkus for fabulously fresh cocktail wear, bridal and after five, and Hogl for everyday comfort. Amada brings you Colombian leather shoes and boots bursting with attitude and colour.

Shoes can be coordinated with handbags to create delicious duos, hats & jewellery show style a-plenty and are available in an elegant and pressure free setting.

Shop 8, Centrepoint Petrie Plaza, Canberra City Opening Hours Mon - Thu 9:30 - 5:30pm Fri 9:30 - 8pm Sat 9:30 - 4pm Tel 02 6247 4855 photography by nina lange

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Slave to Luxury Birthdays, weddings, engagements or simply as a treat for yourself — Slave to Luxury offers affordable and irresistible giftware. From vessels and tableware to original art and water features, items are arranged by colour for easy selection. Owners Kelly Sault and Mark Neilsen personally source many items from Asia and provide free gift-wrapping.

Shop ag23, canberra centre, canberra city

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SixOneThree SixOneThree is a premium sneaker & streetwear store with a philosophy based on creating an easy going atmosphere where customers can browse at their leisure without the pressure.

SixOneThree specialises in mens' and womens' streetwear and footwear, offering the latest exclusive products from top labels from around the world. In store you’ll find footwear labels such as Nike, Onitsuka Tiger, Asics and Gravis – along with clothing and accessories from Nixon, Analog, Nikita, WeSC, Merle & Maud, T-Luxe, Lifetime Collective, Spy Optic, Addict, Huffer and Obey. With a comprehensive range from each — more than you would expect in a store of its size — SixOneThree is committed to its labels and creating a unique shopping experience.

Shop 2, Garema Arcade Bunda St, Canberra City Opening hours Mon - Thu 10am - 5:30pm | Fri 10am - 8pm Sat 10am - 5pm | Sun 11am - 4pm Tel 02 6247 0515 www.sixonethree.com.au

Opening Hours Mon - Thu 9.30 - 6pm | Fri 9.30 - 9pm Sat 9.30 - 5pm | Sun 11am - 4pm Tel 02 6249 7997 redpath’s direct brand depot – canberra airport tel 02 6249 6277

Civic Shoes Civic Shoes provides stylish footwear for business, tough work and casual wear. From conventional to edgy — men’s business shoes pack a youthful punch. Italian label Brando features, including sought-after designs in snake, emu and crocodile skin. Work shoes, including Baxter and Dr Martens, offer cool high performance. While casual footwear for either sex, including labels from Italy, Spain and Germany – including Merrell, Brando, Elite, Giorgio Vertucci, Karandonis and Bernard. There is also an instore shoe repair service with quick turnaround for those unexpected emergencies.

Shop 3, Baileys Arcade, London Cct, Canberra City Opening Hours Mon - Thu 8am - 5:30pm Fri 8am - 7pm | Sat 9am - 3pm Tel 02 6248 7032

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Redpath’s may be one of the oldest stores in Civic, but its attitude is pure youth. From European imports to up-to-the-minute designs — all shoes are a knock out, whether casual, street or dress-up. Quality and comfort is as important as looks, and Diesel is a speciality, including shoes, satchels and accessories.

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Let your personality shine at Unit Concepts through homeware, giftware, music and novelties. Chic meets cheek at this emporium of crazy gifts and objects from $2 to $10,000. Its quirky, its fun and its unusual. iitalla, Alessi & Marimekko feature, along with Boda Nova, Eva Solo and Menu - and the Moomin Trolls live here! Also available is an eclectic mix of contemporary homeware which includes bean bags from Fatboy; Nambe crystalware; retro-styled Tivoli Audio; Royal Doulton; and gallery objects from Artecnica.

28 Lonsdale Street, Braddon Opening Hours Tue - Wed 10am - 5pm Thu - Fri 10am - 6pm Sat 10am - 5pm Sun noon - 4pm Tel 02 6230 0943

fashion accessories / braddon / shopping

www.unitconcepts.com.au

Bourgeois Pig This little piggy went to market – and has brought back some of the most gorgeous personal accessories to share.

Step in to this corridor of indulgence and discover the earthy Demeter fragrance library which includes candles, body oils and perfumes. Womens’ accessories include Pratten purses and bracelets and charms from Pandora and Trollbeads. Men are catered to with a large range of cufflinks and accessories, including wallets, watches and sunglasses. Bourgeois Pig exclusively stocks designer Kidada Jones’ range of Disney Couture jewellery. Also stocked here are Nancy Bird bags, jewellery from Thomas Sabo and NAJO, eyewear from Dita and watches and accessories from Storm.

28 Lonsdale Street, Braddon Opening Hours mon 11am - 5pm | tue - Thu 10am - 5:30pm fri 10am - 6pm | Sat 10am - 5pm | Sun 12pm - 4pm Tel 02 6262 8607

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The Downtown Milkbar & Coffee Lounge in Manuka Arcade is one of the last vestiges of the old-school milkbar. First opened in the 1950s, Downtown Milkbar continues the tradition of good service and great value. Best known for its extensive range of mouth-watering, hand-made truffles and specialty chocolates, (perfect for Easter, Valentine’s or Mothers Day gifts), Downtown also has delicious thickshakes, gourmet sandwiches and ample outdoor seating for a short coffee break or a long lunch.

Shop 12, Manuka Arcade, Manuka Tel 02 6295 8034 Open 7 days 8am - 7.30pm

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Situated amidst the buzz of the boutiques and bars in Lonsdale Street and just a short walk from the city centre, Paintbox Fine Art sells paintings and drawings from award-winning artists across Australia. Paintbox artists have been finalists in the country's most prestigious art competitions including Archibald, Sulman, Wynne and Fleurieu prizes. Prominent amongst our artists are a number of emigrĂŠ Chinese artists who settled in Australia after the tumultuous events in Tianenmen Square in 1989. These artists have brought a new vigour to artistic life in Australia. A visit to Paintbox is a must for art enthusiasts.

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Furla Furla stocks an exclusive range of luxurious, yet affordable leather goods and accessories. Classic, feminine handbags are the mainstay, along with elegant and matching shoes, jewellery, wallets, sunglasses and scarves. Furla invites customers to delve through cutting-edge displays and see-through drawers for the perfect gift or self-indulgence.

Bougainville Street, Manuka Opening Hours Mon - Thu 10am - 5.30pm Fri 10am - 7pm | Sat 10am - 4pm Tel 02 6232 6004 | furlaact@bigpond.net.au

Owner Susan Taylor’s commitment to quality Australian design continues to introduce fresh labels and ideas to the local fashion scene. Labels stocked exclusively in Canberra by Department of the Exterior include Munk, Ess.hoshika, High Tea With Mrs Woo, ammo, United Constructions, dogstar, Obßs and Mild Red (NZ).

New to the store in 2009 are Melbourne labels materialbyproduct, Strange & Strange and Fibre Red. Accessories include bags by nancybird and jewellery by Elk, kearnsie and local labels Love Your Work and Grazed Youth. Visit Exterior to be refreshed by the experience of innovative, distinctive and wearable clothes, complemented by art displays and jazz-inspired sounds.

Shop 1, Ground Floor, Manuka Court 11-17 Bougainville Street, Manuka Opening Hours Mon - Wed 9:30 - 6pm Thu - Fri 9:30 - 7pm Sat 10am - 5pm Tel 02 6239 4225

dress eternal safari | photo ash scott | model marina dojchinov

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Home Bed, Bath & Baby An emporium of indulgent body care and bathroom luxuries that will arouse your senses. Specialties include an extensive range of L’Occitane en Provence, Gianna Rose Atelier carved soaps, Bod’s chemical free aromatherapy range for babies, Voluspa scented candles, Marimekko clothing & accessories, Italian cashmere blankets and luxurious bathrobes & sleepwear. Find fabulous baby gifts to indulge your special little one. Spoil yourself or your loved ones from the many gift ideas or create your own gift basket.

Shop 3, Style Arcade Franklin Street, Manuka Opening Hours Mon - Thu 9am - 5:30pm Fri 9am - 6pm Sat 9am - 5pm Sun 11am - 4pm Tel 02 6295 2255

Home

by Creations Owned and operated by the people from Creations Jewellers, Home by Creations is a gallery of superb and practical homewares designed to make everyday household tasks a sheer pleasure.

Leading homeware brands from the likes of Marimekko, Stelton, Lalique, Magpie, Menu, Mud, Alessi, iittala, Rosendahl and Fink are all beautifully presented in this gorgeous store and guaranteed to enhance your home. Take advantage of Home’s gift and bridal registry.

Shop 8, Style Arcade Franklin Street, Manuka Opening Hours Mon - Thu 9am - 5:30pm Fri 9am - 8pm Sat 9am - 5pm Sun 11am - 4pm Tel 02 6295 1985

Shop 5, Style Arcade Franklin Street, Manuka Opening Hours Mon - Thu 9am - 5:30pm Fri 9am - 6pm | Sat 9am - 4pm Tel 02 6295 1763 www.creationsjewellers.com.au

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Creations provides exceptional modern jewellery, crafted in-house and designed to be worn, both every day and for occasions. Their designs with pearls have made them award winners in the field. Discover the best Australia has to offer including an extensive selection of Autore South Sea Pearls, coloured diamonds, unusual gemstones and stunning sterling silver. Find unique, hand-made diamond rings, Australia’s perfectly cut Passion 8 diamonds and Pandora. The friendly staff consists of designers, gemmologists and a team of creative jewellers.

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Bamboozle Bamboozle has been providing parents and grandparents of Canberra with a fantastic range of children’s clothes and gifts for four years. They have a great selection of clothing from birth to five years, including brands such as Pure Baby, Koby (Aust made), Run Scotty Run, and Early Bird (premmie range) to name just a few. If it is a gift you are after they have a great range of toys from Kaloo and TOLO, as well as rag dolls by Kate Finn and Tip Toey Joey shoes. Other gift ranges include Branberry blankets as well as a great selection of accessories and toys for your special little ones.

2/14 Furneaux Street, Manuka Opening Hours Mon - Thu 10am - 5.30pm | Fri 10am - 6pm Sat 10am - 4pm | sun 11am - 3pm (from Floriade until Xmas) Tel 02 6239 4533 | bamboozle@netspeed.com.au

B&G Handbags B&G Handbags is situated inside the warm and inviting atmosphere of Manuka Village and provides a vast collection of Italian designed leather handbags, comfortable, colourful shoes, Swarovski Crystal jewellery, watches, casual wear and special occasion dresses. Stylish bags and accessories such as wallets, shoes, shawls, hats and scarves are also available. The friendly staff will be happy to assist you with choosing the right bag or accessory for the occasion.

Shop 4 Manuka Village Bougainville Street Manuka Opening Hours Mon - Thu 9:30 - 5:30pm | Fri 9:30 - 7:30pm Sat 9:30 - 5pm | Sun 11am - 4pm Tel 02 6295 1151

Shop 5-6 Manuka Village Furneaux Street Manuka Opening Hours Mon - Fri 9:30 - 5:30pm Sat 9:30 - 3:00pm Sun 11:30 - 2:30pm Tel 02 6232 6199 Email asianarts@webone.com.au

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Asian Arts Manuka provides affordable Oriental furniture and homewares which are sourced regularly from various countries.

Classical cabinets and sideboards, often with hand-finished detail, evoke past elegance. Smaller treasures include blue and white porcelain, ceramic miniatures, Japanese crockery, trinket boxes and vintage Kokeshi dolls. Free gift-wrapping is provided.

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Angelo’s Shoes 6 Flinders Way, Manuka Opening Hours Mon - Thu 9:30 - 5:30pm | Fri 9:30 - 6pm Sat 9:30 - 4pm | Sun 11am - 3pm Tel 02 6295 1358

The owner of award-winning Angelo’s Shoes, Anne Rendina, has a passion for fashion and a great love of beautiful footwear. Angelo’s carries exclusive brands that are a perfect fit for special occasions, as well as corporate, comfort and casual wear. The store stocks international labels—such as Naot, Hispanitas, Piazza Grande and Marian— which Anne carefully selects on buying

trips in Spain, Italy and Portugal. The quality of leather and attention to detail in the design and production of the shoes and accessories Angelo’s carries is a step up from the rest. This year, for the second time running, Angelo’s took out the top accolade in the ACT and Rural NSW Small Business Awards. Angelo’s was also a state finalist in the NSW Small Business Awards.

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image supplied by angelo’s shoes

Escala If you ask Escala owner Gail Lubbock about shoes, she will tell you that they are not simply what one wears on their feet, but rather, a source of expression, a statement and a passion. Gail and her staff understand that shoes say a lot about a woman, and are on hand to give genuine advice along with warm and friendly service. Well known international labels Thierry Rabotin, Stuart Weitzman and Sara Navarro are stocked in this impressive and commanding premises on the Lawns, Manuka. Handbags and accessories coordinate with shoes, as do hats by talented local milliners Rachael Hanson and Cynthia Bryson. Escala is well worth a visit, if only to confirm what most women already know – that fabulous shoes are a joy!

Shop 1, the lawns 21 bougainville street, manuka Opening Hours Mon - fri 10am - 6pm Sat 10am - 5pm Tel 02 6232 7666

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11 Kennedy Street, Kingston Opening Hours Mon - Thu 9:30 - 5:30pm Fri 9:30 - 6pm | Sat 9:30 - 4pm Tel 02 6232 6361

image supplied by sybil’s closet

Sybil’s Closet A visit to Sybil’s Closet will tickle the fancy of even the most jaded shopper. Choc full with Australian and international labels that have all passed the owner, Danielle’s four-point test – great fabric, meticulous attention to detail, easy-to-wear and affordable – no you haven’t died, but you are in heaven. Sybil’s Closet is a sumptuous refuge for the extravagant shopper – without the inflated price tags. You will find an utterly va va voom range of party and formal wear, fun and flirty dresses, Danielle’s own label of divine lounge wear, and a huge selection of the best of Australian swimwear, including Jets, Lisa Ho, Baku and Ginja.

Shop 9 Andrew Arcade, 42 Giles St, Kingston opening hours Mon - Fri 10am - 5pm | Sat 10am - 2pm Tel 02 6162 1185

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Bellissima on Kennedy is a light and airy boutique on Kingston’s leafy Kennedy street that caters to the mature lady with an eye for style. Bellissima on Kennedy stocks a number of interesting and exclusive labels from Australian and New Zealand designers, precious stones and amber jewellery. Dresses and outfits range from corporate to casual or that perfect dress for a special night out.

Stylish hats and accessories are also available.

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Guide Map North Canberra NORTHSIDE HOTELS & ACCOMMODATION (locations numbered in green on map)

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ON

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DINING (continued)

areas of interest (locations numbered in red on map) 1

TO BELCON

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Debacle......................................................................F5 Du Jour......................................................................D7 Edgar’s Inn................................................................. H3 Firestone Pizzeria | Bar..............................................G1 Flint...........................................................................D7 Gus’ Café....................................................................F6 Kingsleys Steak & Crabhouse.....................................F6 Kitschen......................................................................F5 O Stratos Greek Taverna.............................................F6 Pulp Kitchen.............................................................. H3 Ruby Chinese Restaurant..........................................G1 Sage Restaurant.........................................................G6 Sammy’s Kitchen........................................................F6 Sub Urban.................................................................G1 Tongue & Groove........................................................F6 Tosolini’s Ristorante....................................................F6

1

nightlife

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2 3 4 5 6

Dining All Bar Nun................................................................E4 Alto Tower Restaurant............................................... B5 Axis Restaurant..........................................................D9 Babar Café & Bar........................................................F6 Benchmark Wine Bar..................................................F6 China Plate.................................................................F6 Cream Café & Bar......................................................F6

shopping Belconnen Fresh Food Markets.........................(see B3) Bourgeois Pig..............................................................F5 Canberra Centre.........................................................F6 Civic Shoes.................................................................F6 La Cobbler..................................................................F6 Nunie.........................................................................F6 Paintbox Fine Art........................................................F5 Perfume Box...............................................................F6 Redpaths.....................................................................F6 sixonethree..................................................................F6 Slave To Luxury..........................................................F6 Unit Concepts............................................................F5

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Binara one..................................................................G7 Casino Canberra........................................................G7 King O’Malleys...........................................................F6 Knightsbridge Penthouse............................................F5 Kremlin Bar................................................................F6 Mooseheads................................................................F6 The Uni Pub...............................................................E6

C

Breakfree Apartments................................................. 3 Canberra City Accommodation.................................. 7 Canberra Rex Hotel.................................................... 17 Capital Executive Apartment Hotel............................ 15 City Gate Hotel.......................................................... 20 City Walk Hotel.......................................................... 8 Clifton On Northbourne............................................. 16 Crowne Plaza Canberra.............................................. 5 Diamant NewActon.................................................... 2 Mantra on Northbourne............................................. 12 The Marque Hotel...................................................... 14 Medina James Court................................................... 11 Novotel Canberra....................................................... 10 Olims Hotel Canberra................................................ 13 Pavilion On Northbourne........................................... 18 Quality Hotel Dickson................................................ 19 Quest Canberra.......................................................... 9 Rydges Eaglehawk Resort........................................... 21 Rydges Lakeside......................................................... 4 University House........................................................ 1 Waldorf Apartment Hotel........................................... 6

Telstra Tower / Black Mountain..................................

New Acton..................................................................

Central Business District............................................

O'Connor Shops.........................................................

Ainslie Shops..............................................................

Dickson......................................................................

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areas of interest (locations numbered in red on map) Manuka Shopping District..........................................

Kingston Shops / Green Square..................................

Griffith Shops.............................................................

Narrabundah Shops....................................................

Phillip / Woden Shopping District..............................

CAR

GLEN

Bentley Suites............................................................. 6 Best Western Embassy Motel .................................... 22 Best Western Motel Monaro....................................... 17 The Brassey Of Canberra........................................... 3 Broadway Apartments................................................. 18 Country Comfort Tuggeranong................................... 24 Country Plaza Queanbeyan........................................ 25 Forrest Inn And Apartments....................................... 7 Garden City Motel..................................................... 20 Griffin Hotel Canberra............................................... 13 Hotel Heritage............................................................ 21 Hyatt Hotel Canberra................................................. 1 Kingston Court Apartments........................................ 11 Kingston Terrace Apartments...................................... 15 Kurrajong Hotel.......................................................... 2 Manuka Park Serviced Apartments............................. 9 Medina Classic Canberra........................................... 10 Oxley Court Apartments............................................. 16 Pinnacle Apartments................................................... 14 Quality Hotel Diplomat.............................................. 19 Quality Hotel Woden.................................................. 23 The Realm.................................................................. 4 Rydges Capital Hill..................................................... 5 Telopea Park Motor Inn.............................................. 8 York Apartments.......................................................... 12

Figaro......................................................................... H4 First Floor.................................................................. H4 Fuel...........................................................................G5 Ginseng.....................................................................G5 Huong Hao................................................................ H4 Jewel of India.............................................................G5 La Cantina...................................................................I7 La Dolce Vita.............................................................G5 La Rustica Trattoria................................................... H4 Le Rendezvous...........................................................G5 Madam Woo.............................................................. H4 Mecca Bah.................................................................G5 My Café.....................................................................G5 Pangaea......................................................................G5 Saffron.......................................................................G5 Thai Chiang Rai......................................................... H4 Vasco’s Portuguese Grill............................................. H4 Verve Café & Bar.......................................................G5 Wasabi.......................................................................G5 The Wine & Cheese Providore..................................G5

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visit www.thisiscanberra.com.au to vi ew th e c o nte nts o f th i s bo o k o n li n e w ith a d d iti o n a l d o w n l o a d a b l e e x t r a s

Spend some time in Canberra and discover a city with a vibrant culture all its own. Within the pages of this book you will discover great places to eat and some of the best places to have a drink and unwind. Or, if you are in need of a little retail therapy check out the unique local businesses and find fashion, jewellery and giftware.

THIS IS CANBERRA 2009 I S S N

1835- 8 64 0

Volume 05 | Feb 09 - Feb 10 Š Australian Tourism Publishing Pty Ltd

RRP AUD$39.95 GST INCLUDED

www.thisiscanberra.com.au