A TRAVELLER’S GUIDE TO DINING, NIGHTLIFE AND SHOPPING
CANBERRA’S PREMIER shopping attraction Myer and David Jones lead an outstanding collection of Australian and International fashion labels, along with a stunning range of specialty stores. Experience local and international cuisine at Canberra Centre’s North Quarter where dining and entertainment culture thrive day and night with an array of award winning restaurants and Premium Class Dendy Cinemas. Located in the heart of Canberra city. Canberra Centre - culture centre
Bunda Street, Canberra City. Ph: 6247 5611 www.canberracentre.com.au
fashion
Vine2Dine is an exclusive online wine club available only to members. Vine2Dine hand selects small and boutique vineyards, review wines from Australia and selected regions outside Australia. Wines are selected for their outstanding value for quality ratio and are sold online at wholesale prices. These wines typify their style and region, as well as food and wine matching. As a member, you can assess wines online, look at ratings, cellaring and drinking potential, background information, tasting notes, as well as intimate vineyard knowledge and history. As a member, you receive a membership card which can be used to log on and enjoy the beneďŹ ts of buying wine direct from the vineyard, delivered to your door. You can also access other beneďŹ ts online such as authentic Mediterranean recipes with step to step methods, special occasion planning and budgeting, wine cellaring tips and celebration catering and advice. There are also monthly prizes to be won and monthly wine tastings to be hosted in Canberra. For more information about the Vine2Dine as well as Privacy policy and Terms & Conditions please visit us at www.vine2dine.com
Enjoy the beneďŹ ts
and belong to a club that gives you more as a member!
FOUR BEAUTIFUL SEASONS TWELVE FANTASTIC MONTHS
ONE VERY BIG YEAR
CENTENARY OF CANBERRA 2013
TO FIND OUT MORE, VISIT CANBERRA100.COM.AU
A World of Entertainment Casino Canberra is centrally located on the eastern side of Canberra’s CBD adjacent to the National Convention Centre and close to the Canberra Theatre and Playhouse. The Casino offers all the popular casino games, bars, restaurant, an 80s nightclub, TAB, Foxsports, foreign exchange and more all in a safe and sophisticated environment. Restaurant booking can be made on 6257 7074.
n o t h g i R
rstep... o o d r you
Mission Australia 1300 858 858
YOUR STYLE OWN IT
Discover your style personality at Westfield CUE LORNA JANE PARLIAMENT SPORTSGIRL WITCHERY WITTNER
this is canberra
VOLUME VIII
issn 1835-8640 © 2012 Australian Tourism Publishing Pty Ltd Publisher
Australian Tourism Publishing Pty Ltd
Level 5, 131 City Walk Canberra ACT Australia 2601 Tel 1300 751 408 Fax 1300 751 407
info@tourismpublishing.com.au www.tourismpublishing.com.au
Editor Alex Tricolas Creative Director
Chantal Lesereau
Original Photography Alex Tricolas Chantal Lesereau Additional Matt Taylor Photographic Ben Z Thomas Contributions Graphic Designer
Chantal Lesereau
Feature Writer Alex Tricolas
A
s this city prepares to celebrate its centenary, it is interesting to note that it is still often 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 have a drink and unwind, have a great meal —from the best in fine dining to quick and inexpensive bites— all surprisingly close and easy to get to, in a city that rarely experiences traffic congestion. If you are in need of a little retail therapy or some pampering, check out the unique local businesses that offer everything from great fashion and jewellery to gifts, beauty treatments and massage. Treat this book as your personal guide and you will soon be navigating this city like a local. Alex Tricolas, Editor.
Additional Editorial Dimitri Tricolas Contributions Rafe Morris Advertising Enquiries Alex Tricolas 0419 638 728 Scott Meikle (Meikle & Co) 0404 318 888
To view this book online with additional downloadable content visit:
www.th is is c an b e rra. c o m. a u 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.
Cover Image
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.
Peach chiboust with white chocolate and raspberries from Dieci e Mezzo (see pages 10-11)
EAT DRINK NORTHSIDE p08 - p49
SHOP & Indulge
EAT DRINK SOUTHSIDE
p104 - p121
p50 - p89
GUIDES & MAPS
EAT DRINK region
p122 - p127
p90 - 103
INDEX p128
Dieci e Mezzo 10-11 // Alto Tower Restaurant 12-13 //Sage 14-15 // Boat House by the Lake 16-17 // Benchmark Wine Bar 18-19 // Soju Girl 20-21 // Jewel Of India 22-23 // Iori 24-25 // The London 26-27 // Cream Cafe Bar 28-29 // Sammy’s Kitchen 30-31 // Blu Ginger 32-33 // Digress Restaurant & Lounge 34-35 // Coo Japanese Izakaya 36-37 // Cafe Pronto 38-39 // Suburban 40-41 // Ruby Chinese Restaurant 42-43 // Joey’s Kitchen 44-45 // City Labor Club 46-47 // Kremlin 48 // Transit Bar 49 //
eat&drink
NORTHSIDE
ADDRESS Actew AGL House Corner Bunda & Mort Streets Canberra City (see northside map)
TEL 02 6248 3142 www.dieciemezzo.com..au
OPENING HOURS Lunch Mon - Fri 12 - 2:30pm Dinner Wed - Sat 6 - 10pm
CUISINE TYPE Modern Italian
PRICE RANGE Appetisers $4.0 - $19.0 Starters $19.0 - $24.0 Pasta $20.0 - 36.0 Mains $29.0 - 48.0 Desserts $14.0 - $15.0
LICENCE Fully licensed No BYO
10
NORTH S I DE
Located in the sleek ground floor of ActewAGL’s Bunda street building, this smart and stylish restaurant confirms Canberra’s CBD as a destination for fine dining.
C
hef Adam Bantock – returning to Australia from some of Asia’s most prestigious kitchens, most recently M on the Bund in Shanghai – continues to innovate and refine the sophisticated and contemporary take on Italian cuisine at Dieci e Mezzo. Whilst the foyer of an office building may not initially come to mind as the location for a restaurant of such quality, once inside it all works. The space is light, open and airy, yet surprisingly intimate, with a minimalist theme that highlights the quality of the finishes. Polished terrazzo floors, a white marble bar and Robert Foster light fittings all add to the sense of inner city style. From the kitchen, Bantock embraces a philosophy of quality ingredients and considered flavour combinations that show the spirit of Italian cuisine. Appetisers are perfect teasers that may be luscious salt cod with olives and sourdough; or oysters shucked to order with chardonnay vinegar and eschallot. A salad of fresh figs, buffalo mozzarella, pickled white beetroots and pine nuts is beautifully presented and typical of simple flavours complementing each other. Fresh pasta is a focus here; classic yet rarely utilised bottarga adds a perfect savoury lift to a spaghettini with prawns, lemon, cherry tomatoes and chilli. For main course, a slow cooked leg of duck and smoked breast comes with silver beet, raspberries and blueberries; and a 450 gram Cape Grim rib eye is served with mushrooms, herb butter and watercress. Dessert may be a simple affogato featuring homemade icecream; a lemon tart with Eden blueberries and blueberry icecream or beautifully presented peach chiboust with white chocolate and raspberries. From the cellar, the extensive wine list features some very special labels, carefully selected from the great regions of Italy and Australia, with plenty of interest by the glass.
NORTH S I DE
11
Taking in broad panoramic views of Canberra, Alto stands triumphant at the peak of the city, its clean angular decor echoing a Kubrik vision of the future. Redefining the revolving restaurant, here is a bistro that has gained a steady following of locals and visitors alike.
A
lto 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 decor hint that modern sophistication reigns in the lofty heights of Black Mountain, and the food confirms it. With a new menu created by well respected head chef Darren Perryman, Alto offers a modern cuisine with a firm nod towards the European bistro. To start – expect a refreshing basil marinated Buffalo mozzarella salad with roasted peppers, vine-ripened tomato and red wine vinegar. For mains, crispy skin pork belly is accompanied by roasted apple, Vichy carrots and celeriac remoulade, and a roasted market fish of the day is carried by brocollini, chermoula and lemon. For dessert try coconut rice pudding with poached dried fruits or a refreshing strawberry pannacotta with black olive caramel. The extensive wine list features a solid selection of local, regional and international wines as well as some sumptuous sparklings and champagnes, and a bar and lounge area allows diners to enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail or one of the local or imported beers while taking in the view. At the front, maitre d’ Zeljka Seselja leads the knowledgeable, friendly and unpretentious staff in creating the perfect combination of culinary and visual bliss.
12
NORTH S I DE
ADDRESS Black Mountain Drive Acton (see northside map)
TEL 02 6247 5518 www.altotower.com..au
OPENING HOURS Lunch Fri & Sun 12 - 2:30pm Dinner 7 nights from 5:30pm
CUISINE TYPE Modern European
PRICE RANGE 2 Courses $65.0 3 Courses $75.0 Degustation $105.0 with wine $155.0
LICENCE Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Corkage $15.0 per bottle
NORTH S I DE
13
ADDRESS Gorman House Arts Centre Batman Street, Braddon (see northside map)
TEL 02 6249 6050 www.sagerestaurant.net.au
OPENING HOURS Lunch Tue - Sat 12 - 3pm Dinner Tue - Sat 6 - 10pm
CUISINE TYPE Modern European
PRICE RANGE 2 courses $65.0 3 courses $80.0 8 course tasting menu $120.0
LICENCE Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Corkage $15.0 per bottle
14
NORTH S I DE
Just one block from the city, heritage listed Gorman House is the home of Sage, a sophisticated little restaurant that is becoming known for its innovation and vision.
O
ver the last couple of years, owners Peter and Michael Harrington have transformed Sage into an award winning restaurant that is gaining a reputation amongst foodies nationwide as a place to watch. The brothers have recruited some well respected talent, assembling what is arguably one of the best kitchen teams in the country. Chef Clement Chauvin – originally from France, and having worked at restaurants such as three Michelin starred Pic, Nicolas La Bec, and Gordon Ramsay’s Claridges – is now joined by chef pattissiere Jean Charles Sommer – formerly head pastry chef at Sydney’s renowned Bilson’s and Banc. These two passionate young masters are creating a buzz with their exciting creations, pushing the envelope with artistry on plates that expresses a desire to communicate with the senses in a way that perhaps has never been seen before in the capital. This is food as theatre, with taste and texture the stars. A dessert of “autumn scenery” consists of chocolate twigs, a chestnut log, pastry leaves, malt soil and apple sauce; a starter of ‘beetroot variations’ sees smoked trout and freeze dried mandarine sharing a plate with beetroot as powder, or meringue, or fresh and sliced, and complemented by baby coriander and nasturtium. Apart from the obvious talent in the kitchen, this restaurant is championing the produce of the region, with up to seventy percent of ingredients coming from Sage’s own six hundred acre farm, just eight kilometres out of town. The dining room is smart and cosy – with fashionable striped walls and floral banquette seating, plush chairs and napery – and opens onto a covered deck overlooking a garden bar that is gaining a reputation for its adventurous and enticing cocktails. All this has not gone unnoticed by the local industry, with Sage being named the Restaurant & Caterer’s Association’s “ACT Restaurant of the Year” and the Australian Hotel Association’s “ACT Best Prestigious Dining 2012” over the last twelve months.
NORTH S I DE
15
As you approach the Boat House by the Lake, you’ll be impressed by one of the best outlooks of Lake Burley Griffin and key monuments such as the Carillon and Parliament House.
S
itting only metres from the water, it’s hard to imagine this restaurant was redeveloped from a delapidated rowing pavilion. It’s certainly come a long way, becoming one of Canberra’s most popular wedding venues, a favourite with the city’s diplomatic community and winning several local and national hospitality awards. The interior is simple and tasteful – white linen on the tables, a smattering of artworks and old world wood panelling separating the dining rooms – allowing the view to be the star. On the floor, owner and manager James Souter keeps things humming along with his efficient and knowledgeable team. From the kitchen, choose from a selection of impeccably plated modern Australian dishes that match the elegance of the surroundings. Expect a starter of pressed pork jowl terrine and crispy pig’s ears with a soft quail egg and sauce gribiche; or Western Australian sardines with horseradish, sprouts, smoked octopus, créme fraiche and sourdough. For mains, confit duck leg and breast share the plate with speck, amaranth, zucchini and toasted barley; and the best fish bought at the markets comes with chorizo, cuttlefish, samphire, capsicum and Persian fetta. Dessert may be bitter chocolate mousse with toasted white chocolate, pear and peanut brittle ice cream; or a vanilla parfait sandwich with salted caramel and cocoa sorbet. The extensive wine list features a sizeable selection of Canberra region wines, alongside great labels from Australia’s best regions, and an impressive list of French champagnes that indicate a “big night out” approach here.
16
NORTH S I DE
ADDRESS
CUISINE TYPE
Grevillea Park Menindee Drive Barton (see northside map)
Modern Australian
TEL 02 6273 5500 www.boathousebythelake.com..au
PRICE RANGE 2 courses $65 3 courses $80 3 courses with fromage $90 7 course degustation $110
OPENING HOURS LICENCE
Lunch (Functions by Arrangement) Dinner Mon - Sat 6.30 - 9pm
Fully licensed No BYO
NORTH S I DE
17
ADDRESS 65 Northbourne Avenue (see northside map)
TEL 02 6262 6522 www.benchmarkwinebar.com..au
OPENING HOURS Mon - Fri 12pm - late Saturday 5pm - late Open Sundays for bookings of 10 or more
CUISINE TYPE Modern European / Tapas
PRICE RANGE Light dishes/Tapas $10.0 - $19.0 Main dishes $38.0 - $42.0 Desserts $17.0 Cheese selection $28.0 - $58.0 Set menu (min 10pp) 3 course $60.0pp with wines $75.0pp Wine flights $16.5 - $18.5 Degustation 8 course $105.0pp with wine $155.0pp
LICENCE Fully licensed No BYO
18
NORTH S I DE
With an impressive wine list and a strong European menu, Benchmark Wine Bar offers a gastronomical adventure of the palate in this cosy yet lively bistro.
W
ith a selection of 500 old-world and new-world wines–100 of those available by the glass–it certainly has cemented itself as the city’s premier wine bar, and as many Canberra establishments take a more and more sophisticated approach to wine, Benchmark remains a place where an intimate knowledge of, and passion for wines – and their relationship to food – has been a constant. The seasonally updated menu has always subscribed to the Modern European school here, though starters have recently taken the odd successful sojourn into Asian territory. Whilst ortiz anchovies, rabbit cassoulet, or iberico jamon with shaved manchego cheese and cornichons are typical of what regular diners here may expect, more surprising are cuttlefish with a Thai pomelo salad, or scampi in rice paper with a Vietnamese dressing. No such fusion reigns in the short but solid list of mains. Expect confit duck leg with toulouse sausage and braised fennel, lamb rack with seasonal ratatouille and rosemary jus, or a 500 gram t-bone with sweet potato chips and seeded mustard sauce. Desserts may be a simple selection of truffles, a trio of house-made sorbet or a Tahitian vanilla creme brulee, but this is a wine bar after all, and one gets the impression that desserts make way for an impressive cheese selection that spans Australia, France, Italy and Spain. For those wishing to sample a range of dishes, a degustation is offered with or without wines, and 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.
NORTH S I DE
19
SOJU GIRL Located in the historic Melbourne building, on the city’s main thoroughfare, Soju Girl delivers city slicker style and excellent South East Asian flavours in a vast arty space that is part bar, part restaurant and part lounge.
E
nter Soju Girl and discover an establishment that is at once a combination of corporate cool and urban grit. The vast space is partitioned to cater for casual diners, drinkers and more formal lunch and dinner patrons. A backdrop of graffiti in the bar hints at the youthful passion here, the carefully set tables in the dining room counterbalancing with a more mature air. From the kitchen, chef Derek Brown really gets a chance to deliver food that inspires him. His global experience has helped create the underlying philosophy that dominates the menu. Derek believes that the palate needs to be refreshed and cleansed to allow the diner to appreciate the protein component, hence the wide use of acidic ingredients such as citrus or vinegars. Lime, orange and little known natives such as finger lime are catalysts to flavour creation. Perfectly crispy soft shell crab sits on a som tom salad of mint, basil, chilli and lime tossed through julienned papaya; and a tiradito of king fish shares a plate with yuzu, white soy, radish and those little pearls of finger lime. A large plate may be whole baby snapper with chilli jam and Thai herbs; or a tataki cut sirloin served two ways: seared and cut in half, the one half char-grilled, the other half cooked Chicago-style between two griddles and utilising salt and sugar to create a caramelisation. Accompanied of course with wok tossed oyster mushrooms, pickled cauliflower and a yuzu koshu paste. At the front, manager Grant Macara heads a young dedicated team, keeping patrons in good cheer with a great bar selection of standards, along with Korean sojus and unique cocktails that stay in character. The Soju Girl mixes jinro soju with lemon grass syrup, lime, kiwifruit and cranberry; and the Saigon Sailor is a combination of spiced rum, amaretto, ginger syrup and fresh pineapple. A good wine list has some notable Canberra labels along with a selection of Aussies and Europeans. Finish with a dessert such as chocolate fondant with salted caramel and peanut butter ice cream; or a lemon grass brulee with pineapple salsa and ginger syrup, and take in some of the artworks from the changing exhibitions.
20
NORTH S I DE
ADDRESS 41 Northbourne Avenue Canberra City (see northside map)
TEL 02 6257 5328 www.sojugirl.com..au
OPENING HOURS Mon Wed Thus Fri 12pm - 12am Sat Sun 2pm - 12am Closed Tues
CUISINE TYPE Modern Asian
PRICE RANGE Starters $3.8 - $26.0 Mains $30.0 - $38.0 Desserts $13.0 - $18.0
LICENCE Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Corkage $13.0 per bottle
NORTH S I DE
21
ADDRESS 24 West Row Canberra City (see northside map)
TEL 02 6162 1845 www.jewelofindia.com..au
OPENING HOURS Lunch Mon - Fri 12pm - 2pm Dinner 7 nights 5.30pm - 10pm
CUISINE TYPE Indian
PRICE RANGE Starters $6.9 - $20.9 Mains $15.5 - $22.9 Dessert $4.5 - $8.0 Sides $2,8 - $8.0
LICENCE BYO bottled wine only Corkage $6.5 per bottle
22
NORTH S I DE
Stylish eat street West Row is the location for great Indian on the west side of the CBD, with Jewel of India continuing the tradition that has made it an institution in the inner south
T
his well known restaurant has been delivering quality Indian in Canberra for many years in the inner south, and with their city restaurant in the Melbourne Building in full swing over the last year, traditional quality Indian has found its home.With beautifully presented standards and a generous banquet offering, the menu certainly delivers on a range of scorching southern flavours as well as the aromatic fare of the north. In fact, Jewel is one Indian restaurant that’s not afraid to go beyond the standards of the north and introduce regional Indian cuisine. For starters, expect the typical samosas, onion bhaji and naan with assorted dips, but make sure to try fried perch fillets flavoured with carom seeds and black pepper, or spinach fritters on a tangy potato salad; and certainly worth ordering, are delicately handled lamb cutlets. Dishes from Goa and other southern regions feature prominently, such as a prawns cooked in a spicy coconut curry sauce, or chicken Chettinad - a speciality from southern India - with its pepper spiced curry. A number of goat dishes are available and highly recommended, along with the expected lamb rogan josh and spinach based saags. Vegetarians are well catered for, with dishes such as dal makhni, a signature dish of whole black lentils cooked with tomatoes, garlic, butter and cream; or a shabnam curry with fresh button mushrooms cooked in a mild cashew sauce. For dessert, find a soothing choice of kulfis alongside simple ice-cream offerings and of course, a great gulab jamun. The dining room is a bright, smart looking space with an interior courtyard and lots of room for larger groups, and the location is an easy walk from a number of city hotels, including the Quest apartments, the Novotel and Medina.
NORTH S I DE
23
IORI A relaxed and fun dining atmosphere in an unpretentious setting makes IORI a must for lovers of Japanese food in Canberra.
W
ell known Japanese master chef Mamoru Aizawa leads a team of dedicated chefs who will deliver a range of menu options – from hot pot courses, to sushi and sashimi in this well loved and unpretentious restaurant in the heart of Canberra’s CBD. Diners may sit at the sushi bar, at the traditional Japanese function room (shoes off, of course) or in the general dining area. Expect to find cheekily named delicacies such as Volcano Roll – sushi rolls filled with sashimi grade raw salmon & fish with a touch of chilli, and topped off with green wasabi flavoured & orange flying fish caviar – or CSI – an assortment of cooked eggplant with a special meat, fried whole Western Australian tiger prawn and eel filling, wrapped in rice paper. And the name actually stands for Chef’s special creation. Quirky and fun. Hot pot courses are very popular here, and feature entrée dishes such as sashimi, followed by wagyu beef, cooked at your table and served with udon noodles or steamed rice. Other specials may include pan fried pork belly, deep-fried pork loin and thinly sliced pork in a hot broth with a chilli based broth, aptly named Three Li’l Piggy. And of course, all the traditional favourites – tempura, teriyaki, and a mind boggling assortment of sushi and sashimi offerings – are done to an exceptional standard. Dessert may be home made cheesecake with green tea flavour; or tempura daifuku mochi with black sesame creme renversee. Service is efficient, and a well thought out wine list, along with a range of premium sake labels and Japanese beers, round off the dining experience.
24
NORTH S I DE
ADDRESS Sydney Building 41 East Row Canberra City (see northside map)
TEL 02 6257 2334 dine@iori.com.au www.iori.com..au view menus online
OPENING HOURS Lunch Mon - Fri 12 - 2pm Dinner Mon - Sat from 6pm Closed public holidays
CUISINE TYPE Japanese
PRICE RANGE Starters $18.0 - $33.0 Mains $20.0 - $55.0 Platters $34.0 - $127.0 Dessert $7.0 - $28.0
LICENCE Fully Licensed BYO bottled wine only Corkage $10.0 per bottle
NORTH S I DE
25
ADDRESS
CUISINE TYPE
121 London Circuit Canberra City (see northside map)
Pub food
PRICE RANGE TEL 02 6257 1986 www.thelondonburgers.com..au
OPENING HOURS Sun - Wed 10am - 10pm Thus - Sat 10am - 12am
Burgers $12.0 - $16.0 Salads $12.0 - $13.0 Kids $10.0 Dessert $12.0
LICENCE Fully licensed No BYO
If the guy from Man vs. Food came to Canberra this place would be his first stop – and there’s a good chance the famous London burger challenge would beat him.
T
reading the line between a typical burger joint and inner-city pub, The London Burgers and Beers is certainly far from ordinary. Located on the corner of the historic Sydney Building, this restaurant is rapidly gaining a reputation for big burgers, big value and bright service. Bespoke wallpaper from art-world legend Florence Broadhurst, and intricate Italian tile mosaic columns – made by co-owner Rachel Bilal – give the space an inviting, young atmosphere. Drop in on a Thursday night to try the challenge: two London beef burgers – a classic with cheese, egg, pineapple, beetroot, caramelised onion and a rich barbeque sauce – served with chips and a jug of beer. In half an hour. Only a little over one percent of those who have tried it have managed to claim a spot on the hall of fame. If tournament eating isn’t quite your penchant, try the Mediterranean lamb burger filled with mixed grill vegetables, fetta cheese and London’s signature sauce or the chicken with fresh basil bocconcini, lettuce, tomato and finished with a drizzle of garlic oil. Look out for the popular lamb kofta, garnished with lemon herb dressing and garlic yoghurt. A good range of tap beers include James Squire, Peroni and Hahn Super Dry, along with bottled beers, cocktails and wine. After dinner the volume goes up as The London takes on more of a pub feel, and diners are encouraged to linger over a few drinks.
NORTH S I DE
27
Prominently positioned at the heart of Canberra’s north quarter, and with a fitout that remains stylish and urbane, cream continues to wow them with its food philosophy of simple casual dining.
T
he beautiful, bright art deco space that Cream occupies speaks succinctly about the food they serve: simple and stylish dishes that are well presented and unpretentious. The thing about Cream has always been the inclusiveness, and patrons are welcome to just have a coffee and watch the world go by, catch up with friends over a cocktail, or have a full blown dinner experience with all the trimmings. The menu may be described as modern Australian, with a spirit of fusion that works well. Mediterranean flavours seem to dominate, but combine well with Asian and Indian to create a distinctive touch. For tapas, lightly fried haloumi shares a plate with a capsicum jam; and salt and pepper quail with chilli chutney. A lamb cutlet comes with honey mustard aioli, and lightly fried calamari is served with a mango and lime relish. Main meals include slow braised lamb shanks with white wine and oregano, roasted lemon potatoes, tzatziki and fig chutney; a duck risotto with shallots, chilli, choy sum and shitake mushrooms; and the ever popular signature chimmichunga: tandoori chicken wrapped in a flour tortilla along with bacon, mozzarella and chipotle chilli. Breakfast remains popular as ever, and may be a crispy beetroot & sweet potato rosti with smoked salmon, cucumber & dill yoghurt; waffles with caramelised toffee apple, maple syrup and ice-cream; or a “Cream“ big breakfast: free-range eggs – poached, scrambled or fried – on toast with bacon, chipolata, mushroom, tomato & chat potato. Cream’s own blend of coffee is as good as ever and is available through the popular “express” window every morning, and of course, to enjoy in the comfortable surrounds all day.
28
NORTH S I DE
ADDRESS Cnr Bunda & Genge Sts Canberra City (see northside map)
TEL 1300 887 213 (FREE CALL) www.creamcafebar.com..au
OPENING HOURS Mon - Fri 7.30am - late Saturday 8am - late Sunday 8am - 4pm
CUISINE TYPE Modern Australian
PRICE RANGE Breakfast $6.0 - $18.0 Light meals $6.0 - $28.0 Mains $21.0 - $33.0 Desserts $13.0
LICENCE Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Corkage $4.5 per person
NORTH S I DE
29
ADDRESS
CUISINE TYPE
Shop FG09 Canberra Centre Bunda Street Canberra City (see northside map)
Chinese / Malaysian
TEL 02 6247 1464 OPENING HOURS Lunch 7 days 11.30am - 2.30pm Dinner Mon - Thu 5 - 10.30pm Fri - Sat 5.30 - 11.30pm Sunday 5 - 10pm
30
NORTH S I DE
PRICE RANGE Starters $3.5 - $20.0 Mains $12.5 - $21.0 Desserts $5.0 - $6.0 Soups/Noodles $4.5 - $20.0
LICENCE Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Corkage $2.5 per person
This busy eatery, in the popular North Quarter dining precinct, has long been the go to place for good quality Asian food and fast as lightning service, confirming it as an institution for the city’s diners.
S
ammy’s is a mainstay of the city’s dining landscape – big, bright and bustling for lunch and dinner. The current restaurant is a newer version of Sammy’s – after a relocation to North Quarter from across the street a few years ago – but still well known 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 – chicken, prawns, fish cakes, chives, egg and bean sprouts – and mee goreng – fried wheat noodles with bean sprouts, chilli, tomatoes, beef mince. 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. The blackboard features interesting dishes that may surprise as they don’t necessarily sit in the standard landscape of this cuisine. Expect American style pork ribs with a tangy barbecue sauce; grilled lamb cutlets and oversized prawns with asparagus and spicy 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 before opening Sammy’s eighteen years ago.
NORTH S I DE
31
For lovers of high end Indian, Blu Ginger makes a big impression with its contemporary feel and authentic cuisine at the heart of busy dining precinct, North Quarter.
T
his polished restaurant has gained a solid following amongst lovers of quality Indian food since opening its doors three years ago The sibling of long established Blu Ginger at McMahon’s Point in Sydney, this restaurant certainly has more of a big city feel, with a cavernous yet well appointed dining room enhanced by polished floors, dark timber furnishings and towering polished concrete Y frames that attract the eye upwards and give a feeling of openness. From the kitchen, expect to find a range of contemporary yet authentic dishes that confirm this is no mum-and-dad ethnic diner. Dishes are delicate and surprising. A chicken chekari is chicken breast rolled with herbs and green chilli, the flavour of the chillies adding rather than dominating to the flavour. Fish fillets are minced and mixed with herbs, then wrapped in vine leaves in a mediterranean style. Badami lamb cutlets are marinated in badam – almond paste – and cooked in the tandoor, then covered with coriander, mint and pistachio. Classic curries are refined and flavoursome, and are given a heat rating on the menu. Ever popular rogan josh has a rich gravy, and comes with fresh tomatoes and coriander; and sagwala is made with lamb, beef or chicken, and cooked with a spinach puree and cream. A range of weekly specials, most of which are unique to Blu Ginger and rarely seen outside India, may include tandoori cooked salmon fillets served on a bed of crispy, vermicelli-like potato bahji. Desserts are relatively simple and may be ice cream with lychees, or traditional favourites like gulab jamun or pistachio kulfi. A concise yet good wine list offers some well known Australian labels, and a number of beers are available by the bottle, including a couple of Indian labels perfect for spicy food.
32
NORTH S I DE
ADDRESS 5 Genge Street Canberra City (see northside map)
TEL 02 6247 2228 www.bluginger.com.au
OPENING HOURS Lunch 7 days 11.30am - 3pm Dinner 7 nights 5pm - 11pm
CUISINE TYPE Modern Indian
PRICE RANGE Starters $6.9 - $24.9 Mains $12.9 - $19.9 Desserts $5.9 - $8.9 Banquets (min 4) $35.0 - $4.0pp
LICENCE Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Corkage $2.5 per person
NORTH S I DE
33
ADDRESS 11 Akuna St Canberra City (see northside map)
TEL 02 6248 6952 www.digress.com.au
OPENING HOURS Lunch Wed - Fri 12 - 2.30pm Dinner Mon - Sat 5.30 - late
CUISINE TYPE Indian Italian fusion
PRICE RANGE Starters $7.9 - $26.9 Mains $21.9 - $34.5 Pizza 16.5 - 19.9 Desserts $6.9 - $11.9
LICENCE Fully licensed No BYO
34
NORTH S I DE
Its hard to categorise this subterranean establishment on the eastern end of the CBD. Part cocktail bar, part restaurant, and with Italian and Indian fusion, one thing is for sure, Digress offers a night of food and fun unique in the capital.
H
aving been welcomed by the lion statues at the top of the stairs and descended into the neon-lit space below, one is made to feel instantly at home by the charismatic and welcoming Singh sisters. Daughters of long time restaurateurs, the girls have hospitality in their blood, and whilst it would have been easy for them to have simply offered good Indian food, they opted for the challenge of fusing with Italian, a cuisine that is widely popular, yet completely different to Indian. The challenge was to do something unique, and this fusion is just that. Fritters of mozzarella and paneer with roasted cumin and fresh coriander come with a jalapeno aioli; lamb cutlets are marinated in red wine and spices; and chicken is marinated overnight in a light white wine, then smoke roasted in the tandoori oven. A range of naan breads may come stuffed with fetta cheese and spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes and basil. Pasta may be a penne with tandoori chicken, red capsicum & shallots in a creamy sauce; and pizza features offerings such as the red devil vindaloo: a combination of hot salami, red capsicum, olives & onions; or a kadhai paneer with Indian cheese, onion, capsicum, red paprika and tomato, garnished with fresh coriander. For dessert, gulab jamun comes soaked in rose syrup, with a scoop of pistachio-flavoured gelato; and a traditional home-made kulfi remains unaffected by the idea of fusion – the girls thinking it wise not to mess with mum’s recipe here. The large formal dining space is separated from the cocktail bar and lounge by frosted glass partitions, and cocktails go out to patrons reclining on bean bags. To take the fusion idea one step further, Digress is a favourite of the Latin dance crowd in Canberra, and put on entertainment every night, so expect to linger, and perhaps have a dance after dinner.
NORTH S I DE
35
The less formal sibling of well known IORI, Coo Izakaya is becoming well known in Canberra for great quality Japanese food in a casual setting.
L
overs of this cuisine have been dining out at chef Mamoru Aizawa’s other restaurant for over a decade, and this little gem – just a couple of doors down – offers a traditional Izakaya experience in the nation’s capital. Coo offers a range of sake with a delicious selection of morsels designed to share, in a casual environment. Be sure to try the spider roll, an inverted sushi roll made up of soft shell crab tempura, avocado, cucumber and aburi salmon; or the teri wagyu, using this famous premium beef with Coo’s own teriyaki sauce and salad. For more adventurous diners, there is the chef’s special menu where a selection of limited items can be found. Here you can order thin sliced ox tongue filled with asparagus and served with a rice vinegar dipping sauce; or a miso based, fish ball soup with shiitake mushroom and bukchoy. For those diners looking for something other than izakaya style dining, Coo also offers a range of bento combinations such as Coo Zen, a selection featuring menu items such as wagyu, gyoza, fried chicken or prawn tempura. The best way to enjoy your night at Coo is to order meals to share throughout the evening, make sure you try a sake or two, and remember, it’s casual and it’s fun. Décor is simple and in keeping with the theme of casual and inexpensive dining, with traditional red paper lanterns adding to the izakaya atmosphere.
36
NORTH S I DE
ADDRESS Sydney Building 15 East Row Canberra City (see northside map)
TEL 02 6257 2233 coo@iori.com.au www.iori.com.au/coo view menus online
OPENING HOURS Lunch Mon - Fri 11.30am - 2pm Dinner Mon - Sat 5.30pm - 9.30pm Closed public holidays
CUISINE TYPE Japanese Izakaya
PRICE RANGE Izakaya $3.2 - $28.0 Soups $2.0 - $12.8 Banquets (min 4) from $30.0pp Bento $18.0 - $24.0
LICENCE Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Corkage $9.0 per bottle
NORTH S I DE
37
ADDRESS
PRICE RANGE
14 Lonsdale St Braddon (see northside map)
Breakfast $5.5 - $22.0 Lunch $13.5 - $17.5 Starters $7.5 - $15.5 Mains $19.5 - $33.0
TEL 02 6262 7710 www.cafeprontocanberra.com.au
LICENCE OPENING HOURS Daytime Sunday 8am - 4pm Mon - Sat 7am - 4pm Dinner Tue - Sat 6 - 9.30pm
CUISINE TYPE Modern Australian
38
NORTH S I DE
Fully Licensed BYO wine only Corkage $3.0 per person
Just a block away from the hotels of Northbourne Avenue, this bright and breezy cafe has been given a new lease on life as warm and welcoming new owners promise a bit of fun for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
W
hilst Cafe Pronto has been around for three decades, new owner Michelle Garnya would be the first to agree that the place needed a bit of a facelift and an injection of passion by the time she moved in. And that’s exactly what she gave it, with a simple refurbishment, lots of laughs and menu that keeps it fun and quirky. This unpretentious cafe is winning new fans every day, who might pop in for a well priced breakfast, an unfussed lunch or a laid back dinner. Michelle brings years of hospitality experience with her – having previously operated Grumpy’s Diner in Cooma. Menu items have all been given clever names, with a wit that suggests a certain jovial informality. For breakfast, a ‘Poor Violet Beauregard’ is a hearty stack of three blueberry buttermilk pancakes with mango butter & cream; whilst ‘Crying Pig’ sees a caramelised onion & bacon omelette sitting on sourdough toast and topped with bocconcini cheese & balsamic glaze. At lunch, a ‘Sow Cherry’ is made up of house made ham & corn fritters served with a peppery baby rocket salad, a handful of roasted cherry tomatoes and a side smoky dipping sauce; and a ‘Red Ruby’ is grilled salmon fillet on a salad of chat potatoes, beans, tomatoes, kalamata olives, cos lettuce & boiled egg. Dinner is available from Tuesday through to Saturday nights, and the menu changes once again to accommodate the evening diner. For entree, you can choose from a ‘Grand Camelot’ – garlic infused King Island camembert, baked in a white wine bath and topped with semi dried tomatoes and oregano; and mains include honey mustard beef fillet kebabs with jasmine rice & snow pea salad (Bullwinkle); and a mushroom, rosemary & garlic risotto served with seasoned lamb fillet (Baa Baa Rice Sheep). You get the picture, no doubt – a little bit of fun and good food, all put together by a friendly team that go out of their way to keep it warm and welcoming. The interior is simple and almost beach cafe-like, adding to the unpretentious atmosphere.
NORTH S I DE
39
The big and bold Sub-Urban by Belluci’s continues to make great food along with fun pub atmosphere its own in the popular inner north dining hub at Woolley Street.
A
t the Cape street end of Woolley street you will find Sub-Urban, sitting conspicuously on the art-deco styled corner it calls home, and catering to the inner north’s love of pubs that also serve top nosh. The fit-out features classic timber panelling and intricate cornice work 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. The classic theme continues on the menu with the standard Belluci’s Italian inspired fare sharing the bill with a range of steaks – served with hand-cut chips or pork ribs with a smokey barbecue sauce. Pastas and risottos are well represented, and continue the Belluci’s tradition that has made this place so popular over the last two decades. Expect a saffron infused risotto with tiger prawns, baby calamari, chilli and asparagus; or large tubed paccheri pasta with slow cooked beef cheek & vegetable ragu. Sophisticated main dishes may include twice cooked duck marylands with roasted kipflers; or a chermoula roasted spatchcock on scented cous cous with natural organic yoghurt. A good range of pizzas are always good, and include classic margherita and prosciutto offerings alongside more exotic Thai chicken, coriander and lime toppings. For after dinner drinks, there is no need to go elsewhere as the lively pub atmosphere in the bar section will keep those wishing to kick on satisfied.
40
NORTH S I DE
ADDRESS Cnr cape & Woollet Sts Dickson (see northside map)
TEL 1300 790 998 (FREE CALL) www.sub-urban.com.au
OPENING HOURS 7 days 11am - late
CUISINE TYPE Modern Australian
PRICE RANGE Starters $8.0 - $25.0 Pizzas $23.0 - $24.0 Mains $23.0 - $45.0 Desserts $14.0
LICENCE Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Corkage $5.0 per person
NORTH S I DE
41
ADDRESS Ground Floor 18 Woolley Street, Dickson (see northside map)
TEL 02 6249 8849 www.rubychinese.com.au
OPENING HOURS Lunch Tue - Sun 12 - 2pm Dinner Tue - Sun 5 - 11.30pm
CUISINE TYPE Cantonese / Live Seafood
PRICE RANGE Starters $5.5 - $24.8 Mains $15.8 - $59.8 Desserts $5.5 - $22.5 Live seafood $market price
LICENCE Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Corkage $8.0 per bottle
Specialising in live seafood and classic Cantonese cuisine, Ruby Chinese Restaurant finds itself hitting all the right notes with the cosmopolitan set, despite barely changing its menu for a quarter of a century.
T
hough the safe and familiar options such as Mongolian lamb or satay chicken appear on the menu, and are presented to a very high standard here, you’ll miss the point if you only order in that vein. Ruby’s strength lies in the simple and fresh presentation of traditional dishes, where the quality of the produce and the expertise of the chefs are given centre-stage. Nowhere is this more evident than in the live seafood, trucked in regularly from around Australia. Expect to find a range of fish such as coral trout or morwong, lobster, eel or abalone in the impressive tank displays that line the walls. It is here that you should enlist the help of the waitstaff and trust in their advice, they do know best. One of the original restaurants on Dickson’s Woolley street, Ruby reminds one of a classic Chinatown eatery, and has contributed to cementing this street’s reputation as the mecca of Asian dining in Canberra. And like a Chinatown eatery, Ruby is open late – it is not uncommon to find this restaurant still open until midnight, and more often than not, catering to other Chinese restaurateurs. While patronage of an ‘ethnic’ eatery by the diaspora en masse is the conventional formula used to judge a place for quality and authenticity, this endorsement – by experts in their field – should serve as a sign of their standing.
NORTH S I DE
43
When looking for dining destinations in Canberra, venturing out of the central business areas can have its rewards. In the case of Joey’s Kitchen, its about good food featuring Mediterranean flavours – and a chance to mix with the locals.
J
ust a few minutes away from most of Canberra’s northside hotels, this unpretentious and casual place is amongst a growing number of eateries offering quality food and atmosphere in quieter inner suburban shopping areas. Owned by husband and wife team, Joey Caruana and Louiza Blomfield, Joey’s offers a menu featuring seasonal, free range, organic produce and excellent fair trade coffee. The kitchen serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, with menus that reflect Joey’s Mediterranean heritage. Lunch may be squid stuffed with pork, fennel and herbs; or Maltese baked rice with veal and tomato. For dinner, expect a veal cutlet with melted fontina cheese, semi-dried tomato pesto and a compote of potato, rosemary, onion and garlic. A grilled seafood plate includes prawns, octopus, scallops and scampi alongside grilled fish and a chorizo and red pepper salad; and an open ravioli is built in layers with fresh house-made sheets of pasta, asparagus, roast pumpkin, grated parmesan and a warm cherry tomato salsa. Breakfast is also big at Joey’s, with a high standard of standards such as home-made muesli with fruit and Greek yoghurt or eggs Benedict alongside interesting dishes such as truffle oil drizzled and creamy baked eggs layered with spanish Jamon ham. The dining room is modern and simple, with bright canvas artworks adding colour to white walls, and a relaxed outdoor dining area for warmer months.
44
NORTH S I DE
ADDRESS
CUISINE TYPE
2 Watson Place, Watson (see northside map)
Mediterranean
PRICE RANGE TEL 02 6255 6965 www.joeyskitchen.com.au
OPENING HOURS Tue - Fri 8am - 10pm Sat 7am - 10pm Sun 7am - 3pm Closed Mondays
Breakfast $7.0 - $15.0 Lunch $13.5 - $15.5 Dinner Starters $16.5 - $18.0 Mains $26.0 - $39.0 Dessert $12.5 - $14.5
LICENCE Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Corkage $3.0 per person
NORTH S I DE
45
ADDRESS Petrie Plaza Canberra City (see northside map)
TEL 02 6230 0404 www.laborclub.com.au
OPENING HOURS Mon - Fri 7am - late Sat - Sun 10am - late
CUISINE TYPE Club Bistro
PRICE RANGE Starters $8.0 - $25.0 Pizzas $23.0 - $24.0 Mains $23.0 - $45.0 Desserts $14.0
LICENCE Fully licensed
46
NORTH S I DE
With well priced meals, a great range of drinks and a friendly club atmosphere, the City Labor Club is the place that locals frequent when looking for a relaxed lunch, dinner or social catch up with friends.
T
he City Labor Club has been designed to spark a new vitality in Canberra’s CBD, with a focus on superior dining and lounge style comfort in a relaxed atmosphere. The Club’s modern design and plush decor are inviting features for members and interstate guests and the staff pride themselves on providing a joyous experience while offering quality products at affordable prices. The Club offers everything from a quick afternoon snack, a sophisticated evening of cocktails or a sumptuous meal, all at affordable club prices. At the bar, a wide variety of beer and cider are available on tap including many local favourites as well as many boutique beers. The extensive wine list has to be seen to be believed for such an intimate club. Encompassing a wide range of grape varieties from all wine making regions of Australia, most wines are available by the glass and feature old-fashioned club pricing despite the up-market brands. Cocktails can also be enjoyed in the cocktail bar Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings. The City Labor Club provides a comfortable atmosphere in a safe environment with all the latest facilities including free WiFi throughout the Club, the latest gaming machines and just about every sports channel. Not to mention, the Club holds the reputation for the best value meals in town. The City Labor Club, where “It’s all about you!”
NORTH S I DE
47
Conveniently located next to the Jolimont Centre on Northbourne Avenue, this well stocked and styled bar is the perfect place to escape the noise of the CBD and indulge in that well deserved, perfectly made cocktail.
ADDRESS 65 Northbourne Ave Canberra (see northside map)
TEL 02 6257 7779 www.kremlinbar.com.au
OPENING HOURS Wed - Fri 4pm - late Saturday 6pm - late
48
NORTH S I DE
W
hether it’s an intimate pre-dinner drink and tapas or a late night gathering of friends, Kremlin Bar provides a refined and welcoming atmosphere. The interior is stylish and lush, with deep reds, browns and greys in velour, baroque lightfittings and gothic wallpaper creating a sophisticted atmosphere that appeals to the young and well groomed regulars that frequently make this their haunt. A fine selection of top-shelf spirits form the ingredients of an impressive cocktail menu featuring all of the classics including Tom Collins, Manhattan or a Martini fit for Bond; or if you’re feeling a little adventurous, try something from the Signature menu. How’s about an Absinth Minded? Absinth, vanilla vodka, lime and vanilla sugar, muddled, shaken, served short and on fire. The tapas menu is available until 10pm and features a diverse range of nibblies to accompany selections from the drinks menu which includes a range of international and Australian wines including many local varieties, and craft, boutique or imported beers. Typical are a traditional bowl of shoestring French-fries, or sweet corn and basil arancini balls filled with bocconcini and served with tomato aioli and balsamic glaze. Friday and Saturday nights see the resident DJ spin some smooth beats late into the night, providing a chilled out and relaxed atmosphere; a change-of-pace from the nightclubs across the road.
Tucked underneath the civic YHA backpackers, this literally ‘underground’ bar is a great place to let your hair down, and it comes alive most nights of the weeks with music and entertainment, pool and well-priced drinks.
ADDRESS 7 Akuna St Canberra (see northside map)
TEL 02 6162 0899 www.transitbar.com.au
OPENING HOURS Mon - Sat12pm - late Sun 2pm - late
T
ransit Bar is one of Canberra’s premiere live music venues, playing host to local, national and international bands, and allowing you the chance to get up close to the stage for an intimate music experience. You can expect live music most Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, but if there’s no band, there’s sure to be a DJ to get the crowd going. If it’s mid-week fun you’re after, Transit is a place that literally buzzes when other places are quiet, so pop down on Tuesdays for Karaoke, or bring a few friends along and form a table for Wednesday night Trivia. Pool tables are always busy here, and the casual and fun attitude of patrons is typical of Transit’s friendly atmosphere. Behind the bar you’ll find a great range of beers including Fat Yak and Little Creatures on tap, and there’s something for the cider lovers too, with Bulmer’s Pear and Original Ciders also on tap. In the fridge you can get your hands on some more quality cider, including Rekorderlig’s Premium Strawberry-Lime Cider, and for something a little stronger, there’s a well stocked bar ready to make a cocktail of your choosing. Transit Bar have an interesting concept of time, with Happy Hour practically running from midday to 7pm, where you can get cheap drinks and delicious pizza.
NORTH S I DE
49
Farmers Daughter 52-53 // Cape Cod 54-55 // Wild Duck 56-57 // Charlie Black 58-59 // Public Bar & Dining 60-61 // To Sung 62-63 // Ginseng 64-65 // Baan Latsamy 66-67 // Urban Pantry 68-69 // Jewel of India 70-71 // Abell’s Kopi Tiam 72-73 // La Rustica 74-75 // Saffron 76-77// L’Unico Ristorante Itliano 78-79 // Figaro 80-81 // Portia’s Place 82-83 // La Dolce Vita 84-85 // Thai Chiang Rai 86-87 // Ona 88 // Cabinet 89 //
eat&drink
southside
ADDRESS 27B Bentham Street Yarralumla (see southside map)
TEL 02 6281 2233 Walk in only / No bookings
OPENING HOURS Mon - Fri 7am - 3pm Sat - Sun 8am -2pm
CUISINE TYPE Modern cafe
PRICE RANGE Breakfast $7.0 - $18.5 Lunch $9.5 - $32.5
LICENCE BYO only Corkage $2.5 per person
52
SOUTH S I DE
In the leafy embassy district of Yarralumla, a passion for great coffee and a desire to create a sense of sophistication drive the aesthetic behind this hidden gem.
G
etting away from the main eat-streets of Canberra can have its rewards and lead to great discoveries; especially when one finds themselves at Farmers Daughter, in the leafy, gentrified surrounds of Yarralumla. As the name suggests, an affinity with the country and with fresh quality produce is communicated in the menu and in the fit-out, but with a youthful touch. Owner Nicole Damiani has created a slender, intimate and modern space here. Bright yellow Bentwood chairs tuck in under cafe tables that have been converted from classic old singer sewing machines along the walls, or distressed farmhouse communal tables through the middle. Piles of Woman’s Weekly magazines from the fifties and sixties add a touch of quirky nostalgia, and fresh green apples and flowers adorn table settings. Green apples seem to be everywhere in this cafe – they even appear on a dish as simple as a toast plate, and are a testament to Nicole’s attention to detail and commitment to the aesthetic. A love of beautiful presentation is apparent with the almost still-life quality of the “Ploughman’s lunch” – a two tier offering of ham, prosciutto, hard, soft and blue cheeses, chilli jam and tomato relish; or a cast iron serving dish for “one pan bacon and eggs”– complemented by cassoulet, heirloom tomatoes and artisan bread. Their coffee of choice is the very famous Campos, and Farmers Daughter is the only cafe in the capital serving this well known Sydney brew. That they take their coffee seriously is a given. Farmers Daughter subscribe completely to the Campos brand’s commitment to fair trade and sustainable methodologies, and choices like cold drip and single origin Siphon are on offer, all made with real passion by the team of dedicated baristas. Campos coffee is also available in retail packs for the home barista, so be sure to pick some up on your way out. SOUTH S I DE
53
As the name implies, Cape Cod is about seafood, from traditional fish and chips, to more sophisticated creations, all in a friendly neighbourhood setting.
A
visit to Canberra should not deter lovers of seafood from indulging their tastes. Regardless of our inland capital’s geographic location, market fresh fish makes its way to the tables of many restaurants on a daily basis, and one of the city’s greatest exponents is this cute inner south eatery. There is something of a fishing village vibe to this place – a corner shop that once served as the local takeaway, with a sunny outlook by day and candlelight by night, an eclectic collection of decorative elements such as cushions, striped walls and model ships all adding to the atmosphere. Led by owner Chris Cochrane, the service is very friendly and unpretentious, with floor staff eager to assist in food and wine choice. The seasonal menu is concise but leaves diners in no doubt as to why they are here. Start with freshly shucked oysters, either natural, kilpatrick, or perhaps with wasabi and champagne. Other entrees may include seared scallops with prosciutto and cucumber salsa or a salt and pepper calamari with an Asian style coleslaw. For mains, market fresh fish may be pan-fried, crumbed or battered and comes with chunky chips and a home made tartare sauce; spicy monkfish and fresh prawns are simmered in a mild coconut curry and served with rice pilaff and pappadums; and a mixed seafood grill is an impressive medley featuring shellfish and crustaceans. The blackboard is ever-changing and features dishes that take advantage of what is fresh on a daily basis. Wines are extensive and well chosen, covering the respected wine regions of Australia and New Zealand. To finish, desserts are simple and classic – passion fruit tart with mango salsa, a rhubarb and apple crumble with ice cream or an affogato frangelico all beckon to be the perfect finish.
54
SOUTH S I DE
ADDRESS Shop 5 Deakin Shops Duff Place Deakin (see southside map)
TEL 02 6282 8697 www.capecodseafood.com.au
OPENING HOURS Lunch Tue - Fri 12 - 3pm Dinner Mon - Sat 6 - 10pm Closed Sunday
CUISINE TYPE Seafood
PRICE RANGE Starters $19.0 Mains $32.0 - $38.0 Desserts $15.0
LICENCE Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Corkage $10.0 per bottle SOUTH S I DE
55
ADDRESS 71 Giles Street Kingston Foreshore (see southside map)
TEL 02 6232 7997 www.wild-duck.com.au
OPENING HOURS Lunch Mon - Fri 12 - 2.30pm Dinner Mon - Thu 5.30 - 10.30pm Fri - Sat 5.30 - 11.30pm
CUISINE TYPE Modern Chinese
PRICE RANGE Starters $12.9 - $16.9 Mains $24.9 - $34.9 Desserts $12.0 - $16.0 Banquets (min 4) $48.0 - $68.0pp
LICENCE Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Corkage $10.0 per bottle
56
SOUTH S I DE
Kingston foreshore serves up a sample of things to come, with bold newcomer Wild Duck staking a claim on the luxe end of Asian dining in the capital, and hitting all the right notes.
T
he first serious restaurant to open in the Kingston Foreshore development, Wild Duck has set the bar quite high for those that follow. The rather plain exterior of what is effectively a modern apartment building gives nothing away, but once inside, one is immediately impressed with the surrounds. A formal entry leads into the stately looking dining room – plush leather chairs, intricate carved wood panelled windows, elaborate light shades and crisp napery making Wild Duck feel every bit the big luxe restaurant that it is. Food is authentic with a modern twist, and an indication of what is happening in the more upmarket establishments of China today. Entrees feature delicate flavours and innovative approaches, in gentrified versions of everything from street food to the staples of Shao Lin monks. Expect to find Alaskan king crab meat sitting in a bowl of savoury egg custard and topped with crispy Chinese sausage; or pan-seared scallops in conpoy sauce with poached asparagus and XO chilli. More surprising are the lamb skewers with cumin and chilli, accompanied by honey yoghurt and cucumber. Lotus root and pork parcels are fried in a light tempura batter, the lotus amazingly crisp and refreshing against the savoury pork. Mains may be lamb shank in golden sands: off the bone and crispy fried, served within a combination of baked coconut, chilli, garlic and black beans, heaped into lettuce cups, sang-choy-bow style; and pork belly is slow cooked for hours with soy sauce, rock sugar and spices, and then served with white daikon radish, arrowhead root and baby bok choy. The dessert list is short, but certainly no afterthought. A selection of house-made sorbets and fruit ice creams are available, along with more involved affairs such as coconut jelly in papaya and sugo pudding with coconut caramel syrup.
SOUTH S I DE
57
This relaxed brasserie gives diners a high quality pub food experience, along with a chance to enjoy a fine drop or a tap beer with friends while taking in local live music.
O
n this prominent corner of Manuka, you will find Charlie Black, a modern and relaxed establishment that offers a quality menu of pub-style dishes, tap beers, and an interesting wine list. The outdoor courtyard places patrons firmly in the surrounds of popular Franklin and Furneaux streets, inviting them to unwind and watch the world go by. Inside, atmosphere is created with wooden floors, a great club lounge, designer light fittings and a beautiful fireplace. That said, flat-screens on the walls offer sports loving patrons the opportunity to watch their game of choice. In the kitchen, the innovative team works with quality produce, delivering high end results whilst staying close to the pub-food ethos. Choose mains such as a braised rabbit pie with mash potato, peas and jus; spicy lamb cutlets with hummous and tabouli; great burgers with thick cut fries or a 300 gram scotch fillet with beer battered chips and mushroom jus. A selection of light meals are available all day and may double up as starters, or just accompany a glass of beer or wine. Expect to find wild mushroom risotto balls with truffle oil; salt and pepper calamari with rocket, fennel and aioli; or crumbed camembert with cranberry sauce. On weekends, breakfast is available from 10 am, offering dishes like a vegetarian risotto with roasted field mushrooms and a poached egg; or a breakfast pizza with chorizo, bacon and eggs. A range of specials change every day, and the kitchen is open until late seven days. Wines are chosen from the best regions in Australia and New Zealand, with some mature vintages from the cellar on offer. On weekends and most weeknights, live entertainment usually comes in the form of live bands playing a mixture of soul and funk hits under a specially set up marquee while patrons groove along in the leafy courtyard.
58
SOUTH S I DE
ADDRESS 2 Furneaux Street Manuka (see southside map)
TEL 02 6232 6600 www.charlieblack.com.au
OPENING HOURS Mon - Fri 12pm - late Sat - Sun 10am - late
CUISINE TYPE Modern Australian
PRICE RANGE Breakfast $10.0 - $22.0 Light meals $15.0 - $19.0 Mains $19.0 - $29.0 Desserts $12.0
LICENCE Fully licensed
SOUTH S I DE
59
ADDRESS Cnr Flinders Way & Franklin Street Manuka (see southside map)
TEL 1300 877 690 (FREE CALL) www.publicbar.com.au
OPENING HOURS Mon - Fri 10am - late Sat - Sun 8.30am - late Pub Holidays 8.30am - late
CUISINE TYPE Modern Australian
PRICE RANGE Raw tastes $18.0 - $25.0 Starters $21.0 - $24.0 Mains $29.0 - $48.0 Desserts $15.0
LICENCE Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Corkage $7.0 per person
60
SOUTH S I DE
New and old exist in perfect unison on this prominent corner of Manuka. Public, the new bar and restaurant that’s a little bit modern and a little bit retro, is definitely not to be missed for great bistro dining and an after-dinner drink.
O
nce through the pub-style entry of this historic corner building, attention to detail and award winning design in Manuka’s newest establisment are truly appreciated. The sense of place that has been created in the dining room gives you a feeling that it has been here forever. A mural of black and white images of old Manuka serve as wall decoration, and along with deep booths, exposed brick walls, dark light shades and classic chequered carpets, you almost expect to see Don Draper and company sipping martinis and tucking into steaks – and steaks are not taken lightly here. High quality cuts – such as rib eye on the bone or wagyu rump – are served with a choice of classic sauces and sides. Mains are not all about steaks though, as evidenced by offerings such as confit duck or seared kingfish. Raw items like king salmon pastrami or a sashimi plate are beautifully presented, and entrees may include barbecued quail, pan seared scallops or grilled leader prawns. To finish, sweet tooths are well catered for with a buttermilk pannacotta or the signature peanut butter and chocolate parfait. Once the serious business of dining is over, retirement to the intentionally lighter bar section is highly recommended. A hot spot for the upwardly mobile inner south crowd, the bar features eclectic tiles, custom crafted furniture, hanging pot plants and a bar that misses nothing, with basic spirits what you would expect as top shelf elsewhere, a great range of tap and bottled beers and classic cocktails. For a more casual dining experience, the bar also runs a separate menu of pub classics such as an impressive and hearty pie floater, stone fired pizzas, fish and chips and burgers.
SOUTH S I DE
61
Manuka has recently welcomed Korean to its stable of cuisines with the opening of Tosung, and with choices of cooking your own wagyu or having one of the skilled chefs prepare your meal, this restaurant is well worth the visit.
O
n the corner of Franklin Street and Flinders Way in the popular dining precinct of Manuka, you will find Tosung Korean BBQ. The decor here is comfortable and inviting – muted brown painted surfaces, a terracotta tiled floor, deep polished tables, chairs and bench seats, the latter upholstered with gold embossed cushions – with the brightly polished exhaust ducts hanging over each table adding a touch of futuristic dazzle. As the name suggests, the main game here is barbecue, and patrons should expect to cook their own from charcoal filled grills built into each table. That said, the menu is expansive and offers plenty of alternatives for those diners who would rather let the pros in the kitchen prepare and cook their meal. A number of high quality protein cuts are available to order, ready to throw onto sizzling grills, including pork ribs and belly, ox tongue, marinated wwhole squid and of course, a choice of wonderfully marbled wagyu beef – typically graded 5 to 7 points here. All are available to order individually, or perhaps more sensibly as part of a combination that typically includes a number of side dishes such as leafy salads, pickled onions, chive pancakes or cucumber, apple and potato mash. Dishes cooked and ready to eat include entrees such as pan fired dumplings, duck salad or egg soup. Or for mains, a variety of very popular hot-pots – served in large iron two handled pots – that include bbq beef or mixed sausage with vegetables and chilli; specials such as fried baby octopus, deep fried chicken in spicy sauce or rice cake and seafood with sweet soy sauce. Finish with a simple and inexpensive dessert like a cinnamon punch with dried persimmon sorbet or a green tea ice cream.
62
SOUTH S I DE
ADDRESS 15 Franklin Street Manuka (see southside map)
TEL 02 6295 2627 OPENING HOURS 7 days 12pm - 11pm
CUISINE TYPE Korean
PRICE RANGE Starters $8.0 - $25.0 BBQ $14.0 - $25.0 Mains $13.0 - $40.0 Desserts $5.0 - $7.0
LICENCE Fully licensed BYO wine only $7.0 per bottle
SOUTH S I DE
63
ADDRESS
PRICE RANGE
15 Flinders Way, Manuka (see southside map)
Appetisers $3.4 - $15.8 Starters $11.8 - $22.8 Mains $16.8 - $25.8 Desserts $6.9 - $8.9 Banquets (min 8) $19.8pp
TEL 02 6260 8346 OPENING HOURS Lunch 7 days 11.30am - 2.30pm Dinner 7 nights 5pm - late
CUISINE TYPE Modern Chinese
64
SOUTH S I DE
LICENCE Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Corkage $7.0 per bottle
GINSENG Over the years, Ginseng has won a number of awards – one of those being the 2007 national award for chinese restaurant – thereby confirming their position as a must visit spot for hungry travellers.
T
he secret of success here is an uncomplicated Chinese menu with hints of Western technique employed by co-owner and chef Rockie Cheung in this lively double storey restaurant with Flinders Street views. 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, to have seen this restaurant take out some major awards over the years. Some other Asian flavours creep into the menu with great success, such as a very delicately flavoured wasabi steak; or shabu shabu – a platter of seafood and finely sliced scotch fillets with fresh vegetables cooked in a Japanese hot pot. Whilst not immediately on ones radar when thinking Chinese, the laksas here are very good and highly recommended. 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 feature relaxed cream and brown interiors along with glass windows on both floors which fold open for al fresco dining in the warmer months. Upstairs is the more formal setting, whilst on the ground floor, things are a little more lively, with the hustle and bustle of the street and the outdoor dining area. At the front, service leans towards the cheerful rather than the stuffy, and co-owner and manager Judy Tran is always on hand to make you feel welcome and ensure a smooth night out.
SOUTH S I DE
65
ADDRESS Shop 9 ‘M’ Centre Flinders Way, Manuka (see southside map)
TEL 02 6295 0426 OPENING HOURS Lunch Mon - Sat 11.30am - 3pm Dinner 7 nights 5 - 10.30pm
CUISINE TYPE Thai / Lao
PRICE RANGE Starters $8.9 - $10.9 Mains $16.9 - $34.9 Desserts $5.5 - $9.9 Banquets (min 4) $29.9 - $45.9pp
LICENCE Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Corkage $5.5 per bottle
66
SOUTH S I DE
Baan Latsamy is well worth visiting if you are looking for quality Thai food in Manuka. The name literally translates to “Latsamy’s House” and refers to co-owner and chef Latsamy Phimphravichith
L
atsamy had been a driving force in the kitchens of a number of Thai restaurants over the years before venturing into her own business with partner Thong Sysengthong. Flavours at Baan Latsamy are authentic Thai with a delicate touch. An entree of eggplant, chicken and prawn presents as a three layered and lightly battered morsel which manages to keep each of its parts distinct in flavour and texture. Red duck curry is a well balanced affair, with coconut milk adding a subtle smoothness and lychees giving a not-overpowering sweet dimension. Mint and coriander combine beautifully with rare beef in the ‘Crying Tiger’, a typically spicy and sour Thai salad that is served at room temperature and is perfect accompanied by a cold beer (the establishment is quick to recommend Beer Lao). Expect to find simple desserts that range from ice cream and cakes to black sticky rice with fresh mango, and a number of local wines on the substantial wine list. The dining room has an open feel, with the full length glass along two sides of the restaurant letting in ample light. Décor is a combination of warm brown walls and carpets with the odd bold colour, such as the interesting yellow cladding behind the bar, and covered outdoor seating is available on the alfresco terrace at the side of the restaurant.
SOUTH S I DE
67
Urban pantry is all about urban style in a rustic setting, with quality food and coffee in the leafy surrounds of Manuka’s lawns.
L
ocated on a lovely sunny corner of The Lawns, Urban Pantry caters to the Manuka business crowd during weekdays, inner south leisurely diners by night, and all day brunch on weekends. Beautifully fitted out with vintage floorboards, retro-style tiles and a warm earthy colour palette, Urban Pantry combines rustic atmosphere with big city attitude. Typical breakfast offerings may be baked eggs with cannellini beans, olives and spinach in a tomato and roast capsicum sauce; or ricotta pancakes with grilled banana and vanilla honey; and specially blended, smooth house-blend coffee is an artisan quality that has aficionados lining up most mornings. From late morning onwards, the menu is interestingly broken into Bites, Lights and Eats. Lights double as entrees or light meals, and salads are always good – expect grilled haloumi and pumpkin with pepitas, eggplant puree and balsamic syrup.The more substantial Eats list may feature corn fed chicken breast with bacon and onion compote, ricotta gnocchi and petit pois; or Morrocan braised lamb shanks on an apricot and almond quinoa. For dessert, traditonal Dutch apple dumplings come with nutmeg anglaise and vanilla bean ice cream, and a cheese plate is accompanied by quince paste, muscatels and crackers. For everything in between, Bites are little tapas style dishes available all day, and bread is the artisan Sonoma brand, brought up daily from Sydney. Of course, you can expect a solid selection of wines, including some well respected locals, and an impressive array of hot and cold drinks, cocktails, great house-blend coffee, smoothies and juices. On your way out, grab one of the artisan gourmet food items available from the pantry.
68
SOUTH S I DE
ADDRESS 5 Bougainville Street, Manuka (see southside map)
TEL 1300 887 923 (FREE CALL) www.urban-pantry.com.au
OPENING HOURS Mon - Fri 7.30am - late Sat 8am - late Sun 8am - 4pm
CUISINE TYPE Modern Australian
PRICE RANGE Breakfast $7.0 - $19.0 Light meals $7.0 - $28.0 Mains $24.0 - $36.0 Desserts $12.0 - $22.0
LICENCE Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Corkage $7.0 per person
SOUTH S I DE
69
ADDRESS Level 1 Manuka Court 5 Bougainville Street, Manuka (see southside map)
TEL 02 6295 7037 www.jewelofindia.com.au
OPENING HOURS Lunch Mon - Fri 12 - 2pm Dinner 7 nights 6 - 10pm
CUISINE TYPE Indian
PRICE RANGE Starters $7.0 - $28.0 Mains $16.0 - $67.9 Desserts $4.5 - $8.0
LICENCE Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Corkage $6.5 per bottle 70
SOUTH S I DE
With views over Bougainville Street and a welcome atmosphere, the original Jewel of India is one of Canberra’s most well known and loved Indian restaurants, and continues to do great quality Indian in the heart of the inner south.
W
ith beautifully presented slow cooked standards and a banquet menu of unlimited serves, the menu at Jewel of India 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. Starters may be crispy spinach fritters, tandoori chicken or lamb, vegetable samosas or perch fillets with carom seeds and black pepper. For mains, saag are offered in lamb beef or chicken; seafood comes in a variety of styles, including the prawn curry “Goanese” from the south, with coconut adding a dimension; or a prawn “methi masala” with tomato, onion and fenugreek sauce. A wide variety of vegetarian mains includes cottage cheese dumplings in a cashew nut gravy, button mushrooms in a mild cashew sauce, or black lentils with tomato, garlic, butter and cream. For those wanting to sample a range of items, the Jewel Feast features an assortment of aloo tikki, chicken tikka, lamb cutlets, seekh kebab & fried prawns with your choice of meat and vegetable curry, raita, naans, rice & pappadams. Any dish can be adapted to suit special diets or individual tastes, and a good range Australian wines are available, along with Indian beers, such as Kingfisher and Taj Mahal.
SOUTH S I DE
71
One of Manuka’s mainstays, Abell’s continues to pack them in with its interesting Asian dishes – made with love and a touch of nostalgia– and its casual yet creative ambience
S
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 in the mid nineties. 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. Deep red walls serve as a backdrop for changing photographic installations by Lorna and some of her collaborators, and glass concertinas open onto the street, overlooking the ample al fresco dining area. 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. Vegetables and prawns are tempura battered and piled high on a plate; shredded duck and bean shoots are wrapped in rice paper; and a spicy “twenty chilli” lamb curry with a coconut cream comes in its own wok and doesn’t disappoint. Finish with a black sticky rice pudding, and perhaps leave with one of the artworks, which are all for sale.
72
SOUTH S I DE
ADDRESS
CUISINE TYPE
7 Furneaux Street Manuka (see southside map)
Modern Asian
TEL 02 6239 4199
Starters $7.9 - $17.9 Mains $15.9 - $29.9 Desserts $6.9 - $8.9 Banquets (min 5) $18.5 - $45.5pp
PRICE RANGE
OPENING HOURS Lunch Tue - Sun 11.30am - 2.30pm Dinner Tue - Sat 5.30 - 10pm Sunday 5.30 - 9pm
LICENCE Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Corkage $8.5 per bottle
SOUTH S I DE
73
ADDRESS 35 Kennedy Street Kingston (see southside map)
TEL 02 6295 0152 www.larustica.com.au
OPENING HOURS Lunch Mon - Fri 12 - 2pm Dinner 7 nights 6 -10pm
CUISINE TYPE Italian / Family restaurant
PRICE RANGE Starters $14.9 - $20.9 Mains $24.9 - $28.9 Desserts $10.9 Pasta/Risotto $18.9 - $24.9 Pizza $13.9 - $25.9 Banquets (min 12) From $25.0 (Lunch) From $35.0 (Dinner)
LICENCE Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Corkage $3.5 per person
74
SOUTH S I DE
La Rustica is one of Canberra’s most loved Italian restaurants, and for good reason. This family run business continues to turn out a huge selection of reliably good Italian dishes which include pastas, home made gnocchi, seafood and of course, pizzas.
A
s the name of this Kingston restaurant implies, the food here is rustic and authentic, as the service, across all facets, is handled by the Callipari and Spadafora families with care and love. La Rustica’s casual environment makes it a great family venue, and confirms it as a genuine neighbourhood trattoria. Hailing from Calabria’s Mare Ionico in the southern tip of Italy, the kitchen staff bring with them the region’s culinary secrets. Expect to find a simple and delicious hand made gnocchi sorrento, with rich tomato and basil sauce; or the very popular spaghetti pescatore, absolutely crammed with fresh seafood. As Calabrian cuisine contains a long tradition of seafood, expect to see much of it on the blackboard and on the regular menu. Don’t be surprised to find you can’t finish your meal as portions, especially pastas and risottos, are particularly generous. Mains are substantial, and may be beef tenderlions layered with a combination of spinach and crisp prosciutto, topped with a red wine jus; or a grilled perch fillet topped with extra virgin olive oil and a lemon juice dressing. Pizzas are a highlight, and follow the classic style, rather than the more modern interpretations on offer in many places these days. The Napoli is a simple mozzarella cheese, anchovy, olive and oregano affair, and a salsicce features Italian pork sausage, onion and chilli. Like the menu, La Rustica’s wine list is big. It offers Australian, New Zealand, and Italian labels. Decor is pleasant and bright with rustic touches, and seating is ample both indoors and outdoors.
SOUTH S I DE
75
Saffron, the smart little Manuka eatery known and loved for its great eastern Mediterranean food, has just spread its wings with the opening of this big and bold Kingston restaurant
M
ax and Marven 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 has always been to create a gentrified and modern dining experience that pays tribute to their roots and embraces all that is shared with the cuisines of Lebanon, Greece and Turkey, aptly called east Mediterranean by the brothers. With the opening of their newest restaurant, they continue to refine their vision on this somewhat larger stage. Wood and leather chairs, wallpaper, boldly coloured wall mouldings and metallic tiles all contribute to the showy feel here, and create a different experience to the more subdued original. From the kitchen, chef Max does what he knows best, dishing out the familiarity that one expects. A starter of pan seared scallops comes in white wine, garlic and coriander; and prawns are served saganaki style, with feta, olives and a crushed tomato sauce. Mains include castalleta – lamb cutlets with tomato puree, red wine, chilli & olive oil – or basa dory fillet baked in chilli sauce and coriander, served with a sprinkle of roasted nuts. For a more communal experience, Saffron offer banquets that feature an array of authentic delights, perfect to share. Broken into cold entree, hot entree and main dishes, one may find dolmades– vine leaves stuffed with rice and aromatic herbs – or mantar – crumbed button mushrooms – along with karides – marinated and grilled prawns – or kafta – grilled patties of beef and lamb patties with parsley and garlic. At the front, Marven heads the genuinely warm service, and wine matching is well executed for those in unfamiliar territory. A great way to finish is with a saffron pear dessert or baklava and perhaps a cocktail in the lounge from the well appointed bar.
76
SOUTH S I DE
ADDRESS
OPENING HOURS
31 Kennedy Street Kingston
Lunch Mon - Fri 12 - 2pm Dinner Mon - Sat 6 - 10pm (Manuka Dinner 7 nights)
TEL 02 6295 8839 Also Capitol Theatre Centre Franklin Street Manuka
CUISINE TYPE
TEL 02 6295 7068
East Mediterranean
(see southside map) www.saffronrestaurant.com.au
PRICE RANGE Starters $12.9 - $18.9 Mains $$26.9 - $34.9 Desserts $12.9 Banquets $ $39.0 - $45.0
LICENCE Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Corkage $10.0 per bottle
SOUTH S I DE
77
ADDRESS
CUISINE TYPE
27 Kennedy Street, Kingston (see southside map)
Italian
TEL 02 6295 0777
Starters $8.9 - $19.9 Mains $19.9 - $25.9 Desserts $8.9 - $14.9 Pasta $19.9 Pizza $19.9
PRICE RANGE www.lunicoristorante.com.au online bookings recommended
OPENING HOURS Lunch Thu - Fri 11.30am - 2.30pm Sundays 12 - 2.30pm Dinner 7 nights 5 - 10pm Public holidays 5pm - late
78
SOUTH S I DE
LICENCE Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Corkage $7.0 per bottle
Authentic Italian cooking that includes wood fired pizzas, pastas and an appetising range of seafood in a rustic yet opulent setting can be found in this Kennedy street restaurant
L
’Unico Ristorante Italiano is one of the few restaurants in Canberra endorsed by the Accedemia della Cucina Italiana in Milan. Authenticity is high on the list of priorities here, as is evidenced by the flowing and fluent Italian spoken by kitchen and floor staff alike. The spacious and inviting interior has some classic elements. High ceilings, timber and marble against warm red tones, and heavy framed paintings add to the feeling of old world charm and a sense of the ‘big night out’. From the kitchen, expect a starter of fiori di zucchini: fresh zucchini flowers stuffed with scallop, mozzarella, asparagus and provolone; or a seafood antipasto with calamari and squid from Port Lincoln in South Australia, scallops, swordfish diced in a tomato sauce, and smoked salmon crostini. Pasta may include prawn ravioli, hand made on premises, and topped with scallops and prawns in a seafood broth. A range of mains include chicken dishes such as pollo ai gamberi: oven baked chicken breast with prawns and a creamy cognac and lemon sauce; or veal dishes like scaloppine ai funghi, pan fried and served with mushrooms, shallots, white wine and a demi glaze reduction. A broad range of wood fired pizzas are on offer as well, and here you may find L’unico tipping its hat to Aussie tradition. Yes, you can order a Tropicale, with ham and pineapple; and an Australiana with ham, bacon and eggs, alongside other more Italian sounding offerings, like the hot and spicy pizza N’DUJA! Enjoy the refreshing, hospitable service that L’unico is renowned for, and if you haven’t left room for one of the lovely desserts, perhaps leave with one of the lovely gelati on display at the front.
SOUTH S I DE
79
It’s a joy to find a restaurant that balances a warm and friendly ambience with great food, and that is exactly what Figaro has managed to achieve.
T
his relaxed and friendly little restaurant just feels inviting, and is a testament to the authenticity that owners John Barone and Jemma Gundry insist upon. As floor manager, Jemma 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 Rome with fresh local ingredients, creating classic tastes rarely found in such an accessible setting. Simple things are done well here. Starters may be a classic bruschetta, chilli mussels or an antipasto. Pastas such as fettuccine and gnocchi are made in house, with sauces that cannot hide their origins. Traditional Genovese style pesto is teamed with sun-dried tomatoes and served with any pasta diners choose and black truffles, champignons and herb and provolone sauce are stars on a fettucine. Pizzas are made with stone ground flour and natural yeast in true artisan fashion, and toppings stay true to the spirit of authenticity, with prosciutto, double smoked ham, peppers, chilli and onions being typical here. A look at the menu or blackboard, however, confirms seafood and meat dishes as the drawcards here. Swordfish or salmon feature on the blackboard, and veal is served in typical Italian style with mushrooms and black truffles in a herb cream sauce, or simply caramelised with an orange marsala sauce. Lamb cutlets come with garlic, vinegar, & rosemary in a white wine sauce, and chicken breast has cognac cream sauce with double smoked ham, mushrooms and green peppercorns. A good wine list is offered, along with a selection of Italian liqueurs and desserts to finish.
80
SOUTH S I DE
ADDRESS 17 Kennedy Street Kingston (see southside map)
TEL 02 6232 6922 www.figarorestaurant.com.au
OPENING HOURS Lunch Thu - Fri 12 - 2pm Dinner 7 nights 6 - 10pm
CUISINE TYPE Italian
PRICE RANGE Starters $15.9 - $26.9 Mains $26.9 - $33.9 Desserts $10.9 Pasta/Risotto $22.9 - $26.9 Pizza $22.9 - $27.9
LICENCE Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Corkage $4.0 per person
SOUTH S I DE
81
ADDRESS
PRICE RANGE
11 Kennedy Street Kingston (see southside map)
Starters $2.5 - $29.8 Mains $18.8 - 32.8 Desserts $6.8 - $16.8 Banquets $35.8 - $44.8
TEL 02 6239 7970 02 6239 7972
LICENCE OPENING HOURS Lunch 7 days 12 - 3pm Dinner 7 nights 6 - 10pm
CUISINE TYPE Chinese
82
SOUTH S I DE
Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Corkage $6.0 per bottle
The long standing and always welcoming Portia’s Place sticks to the standards and does them well, maintaining its almost legendary status when it comes to Chinese cooking in Canberra.
T
his mainstay of Chinese cuisine has recently gone thorough a change of ownership. Whilst Portia has moved on, the kitchen remains in the hands of skilled head chef Kun Chen, and the cheerful and welcoming Jessica Huynh takes charge at the front. In saying that, none of the reasons why Portia’s has been so well loved over the years have changed, so expect a great night of quality dining in an accessible and friendly neighbourhood setting. The simply adorned dining room is usually buzzing with patrons, and it’s not unusual to see a number of very well known federal pollies dining here, alongside appreciative locals. This is Chinese that most will be familiar with, done well. As most regions of China are represented, old favourites are most likely to be here. A number of Portia’s dishes, however, have reached cult status in the capital, and it’s not uncommon for them to be mentioned in people’s “best of” lists. The Chinese pancakes are definitely worth a mention – crispy skinned duck is pulled at the table and assembled with the traditional hoisin sauce – and any one of the hot pots are going to impress. The real standout may well be the boneless lamb rib in Shantung sauce, an amazingly crispy-skinned serve of twice cooked tender lamb (yes it’s finished in a deep fryer) beautifully balanced with the sweet and tangy flavours of rice vinegar, soy sauce, cane sugar and chillies. Service is friendly and efficient, food comes out in good time, a reasonable wine list caters to most tastes, and a changing list of specials is available for the more adventurous.
SOUTH S I DE
83
Left to right: Colonel Giuseppe Messina, Salvatore Passari, Raffaele Iannizzotto
The oldest Italian restaurant in Kingston, La Dolce Vita is one of those neighbourhood eateries with a solid following of locals that keeps it casual, without escaping the attention of high ranking pollies and diplomats.
O
ver the years, La Dolce Vita has become an institution in the leafy inner south suburb of Kingston. Dining here for the first time, one senses a familial warmth in this rustic eatery. Many patrons will have frequented a number of restaurants over the past twenty years or so, operated by charismatic owner and chef Salvatore Passari. The charm of this place has not escaped the attention of politicians and diplomats over the years – John Howard was a regular visitor during his tenure as PM; Raffaele Iannizzotto, delegation head of the Accedemia Italiana della Cucina, recommends it; and the current Italian defence attaché, Colonel Giuseppe Messina, has made it his second home. The colonel is so impressed, he now exclusively hires Salvatore to cater for all of his official functions. On to the food – Plate-sized pizzas are always good here 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 following a recipe of Salvatore’s mother Anna – a forty year veteran of the restaurant game – it is served with a simple sauce of tomato and basil or a bacon mushroom and cream sauce, and should not be missed. Mains include a number of traditional veal dishes such as saltimbocca – a stack of pan-fried veal and bacon with a bay leaf sauce; or vitello limone, veal fillets with a tart lemon sauce. A well priced wine list that includes some interesting mature Australian vintages alongside Italian standards, complements the menu. Finish with a classic tiramisu and a simple espresso, and take in the neighbourhood trattoria ambience.
ADDRESS 34 Giles Street, Kingston (see southside map)
TEL 02 6295 7877 OPENING HOURS Lunch Tue - Sat 12 - 2pm Dinner 7 nights 6 - 10pm
CUISINE TYPE Italian
PRICE RANGE Starters $13.5 - $19.5 Mains $23.9 - $33.9 Desserts $9.9 Pasta/Risotto $16.9 - $22.9 Pizza $17.5 - $20.9 Banquets (min 4) $29.9 - $49.9pp
LICENCE Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Corkage $3.5 per bottle
SOUTH S I DE
85
ADDRESS 48 Giles Street, Kingston (see southside map)
TEL 02 6232 6999 OPENING HOURS Lunch Mon - Fri 12 - 2.30pm Dinner 7 nights 5 - 10.30pm Open for dinner public holidays
CUISINE TYPE Thai
PRICE RANGE Starters $8.9 - $14.9 Mains $17.9 - $25.9 Desserts $5.9 - $9.9 Banquets (min 2) $27.9pp - $59.9
LICENCE Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Corkage $2.9 per person $4.9 per bottle
86
SOUTH S I DE
This stylish looking restaurant on Kingston’s busiest eat street continues to offer fresh and innovative fare, confirming it as a haven for lovers of Thai cuisine in the inner south.
N
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 stir fries such as the ever popular pad Thai, those in the know come seeking owner and chef Noy Phachantharong’s list of house specials. Typical to his repertoire is the duck paa lo, a traditional and popular slow cooked dish that incorporates fruit as a foil to gamey duck, made special by the use of dried figs, cooked in herbs and spices and served with steamed asparagus; or scallops stir fried with basil, mild chilli, onion, shallots and snow peas and topped with macadamia nuts. Other specialities may include chicken fillets grilled and served with a Thai paw-paw salad and served with sticky rice; or crispy roasted chicken with cucumber, chilli, garlic, coriander and soy sauce. Salads such as larb are executed well, and a good range of vegetarian dishes are given their own section in the menu. 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.
Far from your average coffee shop, Ona Coffee Specialist will surprise and delight with an array of alternative coffee brewing methods, locally sourced desserts and an adventurous breakfast and lunch menu.
ADDRESS Shop 4.The Lawns. Bougainville St Manuka (see southside map)
TEL 02 6295 0057 www.onacoffee.com.au
OPENING HOURS Mon - Fri 7am - 4.30pm Sat - Sun 8am - 4pm
88
SOUTH S I DE
I
f there’s one thing you might take away from talking to owner and master roaster Sasa Sestic, it’s that the team at Ona are seriously passionate about their coffee. When they’re not racking up international and local accolades for their coffee – from roasting through to latte art – Ona’s baristas and roasters are consistently experimenting with alternative brewing methods and roast profiles. Explore a selection of single origins from direct-trade farms from South America to Africa. Notice the crisp apple and peach notes of the Ethiopian Yirgacheffe as a refreshing cold-drip, or the sweet hints of spice and caramel of the Indian Thalanar Estate in a warm Aeropress or siphon brew. Otherwise try a classic milk-based coffee like Ona’s award winning Organic Blend, with notes of caramel and malt. Also on offer is chilled cascara – a tea brewed from the dried fruit pulp of raw coffee beans. Taking in the leafy surrounds of the lawns in Manuka, Ona buzzes in the mornings with local professionals lining out the door. In the afternoons patrons looking to step away from typical café fare tuck into offerings like the pulled pork burger – slow roasted pork shoulder is pulled apart and formed into patties, then served in an artisan bun with coleslaw – or a vanilla bean and coconut rice pudding, served with mango salsa and pistachio powder. Ona also offers tasting sessions and barista training at their Fyshwick location where you can also catch a glimpse of the full roasting process while sipping your coffee.
Cabinet Lounge Bar is Manuka’s answer to the stylish inner city haunts of Sydney or Melbourne, oozing laid-back sophistication and atmosphere to match.
ADDRESS 17 Franklin St Manuka (see southside map)
TEL 02 6295 3966 www.cabinetbarmanuka.com.au
OPENING HOURS Wed - Sat 5pm - late
A
new addition to the inner south night spot circuit, Cabinet is partly responsible for breathing life back into Franklin Street beyond the sensible hours of dinner-time, thus helping to revive the suburb to its former glory when revellers kicked on till the early hours. In recent times the well-heeled Manuka set was crying out for a hip lounge bar. Cabinet has met the brief. Comfy couches and ottomans provide a relaxing space to unwind in and a colour scheme reflecting that of the House of Reps and Senate adds a subtle quirkiness to the otherwise slick surrounds. The unique selection of cocktails, wine, spirits and beer, as well as the ever popular Rekorderlig cider range, are all complimented with a light nouveau menu of Spanish inspired tapas. From Thursday to Sunday, an eclectic line-up of music will give you reason to either tear up the dance floor or just chill out to smooth bar grooves. Top Canberra DJ’s will bring you anything from funk, house, electronica and nu disco while the odd big brass band has been known to occasionally provide swing-tastic entertainment.
SOUTH S I DE
89
Grazing at Gundaroo 92-93 // Flint in the Vines 94-95 // Westering 96-97 // Le Tres Bon 98-99 // Versatile 100-101 // Lerida Estate 102 // Grandma’s Little Bakery 103 //
eat&drink
the region
In this beautiful old building built in the 1830s, the site of the Gundaroo Pub for longer than anyone can remember, you will find Grazing at Gundaroo, a bastion of the region’s country dining ethos.
F
or a number of years, Grazing – just a half hour drive from Canberra – has been at the forefront of the growing movement in this part of the world that embraces the best of local produce, and showcases it with real pride in the region. Everything that can be supplied locally, is. Plump yabbies, fished out of the river and neighbouring dams, are brought here from local farmers; heirloom vegetables – including tomatoes, herbs, a number of lettuce varieties – are grown in the garden at the back of the old building. At the hands of well respected chef and owner Kurt Neumann, elegant dishes make their way from the kitchen, a perfect expression of the culmination of this philosophy of freshness, manifesting in the refined country fare that Grazing is loved for. Expect to see said yabbies steamed, with parsley and hazelnut picada, caramelised onion tuile and a garden tomato salad; or lamb cutlets and slow cooked shoulder, stinging nettle, minted potatoes, spring peas and a confit tomato hollandaise. As well as being available on tap, Gundaroo brewed Jolly Miller cider is the base for a beurre blanc which accompanies Jindabyne rabbit – wrapped in cos lettuce and stuffed with pear and walnuts – and perfectly matched wines are exclusively Canberra region; likewise tap beers by Canberra brewery Zeirholz. In the beautifully appointed antique dining rooms, co-owner Tanya Neumann oversees an efficient and youthful team of locals, her experience running some of Canberra’s finer restaurants being the factor in its polish and warmth.
92
TH E R EG ION
ADDRESS Cnr Cork & Harp Sts Gundaroo (see region map)
TEL 02 6236 8777 www.grazing.com.au
OPENING HOURS Lunch Fri - Sun 11.30am - 3pm Dinner Thu - Sat 6 - 10pm
CUISINE TYPE Moden Australian
PRICE RANGE Starters $17.0 - $18.0 Mains $28.0 - $33.0 Desserts $16.0 Kids meals $15.0 (includes toy)
LICENCE Fully licensed No BYO
TH E R EG ION
93
ADDRESS 34 Isabel Drive Murrumbateman NSW (see region map)
TEL 02 6227 5144 www.flintinthevines.net.au
OPENING HOURS LunchThu - Sun 12m - 3pm Dinner Thu - Sat 6 - 10pm Breakfast Sat - Sun 10am - 4pm
CUISINE TYPE Moden European
PRICE RANGE Starters $22.0 Entrees $18.0 Mains$ 33.0 Pizza $25.0 Desserts $16.0
LICENCE Fully licensed No BYO
94
TH E R EG ION
The sister restaurant to Canberra’s dearly departed Flint, this picturesque eatery loses none of it’s namesake’s sophistication, while gaining a real sense of home grown authenticity, in one of the region’s prettiest spots.
P
icturesque and rural — the essence of Flint in the Vines is European dining in a country setting. On a gentle slope over-looking the idyllic views of Shaw Vineyard Estate, it’s the perfect place to sample the best of local produce. Jai Dawson, along with wife Kate, steers the ship from the front, with a warm welcome, professional service and impeccable knowledge of wine, including the local wines sold here. Much is made about the local produce used in many of the region’s restaurants, and Flint is right up there in that respect, with many of their ingredients coming straight out of the property’s garden. Under the guidance of internationally respected executive chef Grant Kells, the kitchen delivers refined and tasty food that sits comfortably in the Anglo/French sphere of influence, reflecting both his heritage and formal training in some of Europe’s finest restaurants. For entree, expect to find an escabeche of Western Australian sardines with candied lemon, fennel and parsley ; a rabbit & pistachio terrine; or a house made black pudding with onion soubise & sauteed scallops. Mains may be grilled calves’ liver and streaky bacon with a red onion jus; wild barramundi fillet with a warm plum salad and a carrot & ginger sauce; or an amazingly hearty and homely whole roasted lamb shoulder with onion salad and cauliflower gratin, made for two or perhaps three. A range of delectable wood fired pizzas are also on offer, and may come with a simple topping of pear and gorgonzola with fresh sage; or perhaps pulled chicken with basil pesto, caramelized onion and sun-dried tomato. Desserts are perfectly executed and have a touch of the familiar and the rustic. Apple and rhubarb crumble comes with double cream; and steamed prune pudding with a delicate prune & almagnac ice cream. The interior is bright and breezy on warm days, and the fireplace keeps things cosy in the cold months of winter, making this a great spot any time of the year.
TH E R EG ION
95
The region’s oldest winery is the setting for this sunny restaurant and cellar door, serving quality local drops and modern Australian comfort food with a mediterranean twist.
O
wned and operated the Karelas family of Canberra, Lake George Winery is situated on the gentle slopes near Lake George, and is also the location of Westering (the name a tribute to the original name of the property). The bright and sunny building has vaulted ceilings and floor to ceiling windows that provide a magnificent view of the vineyards, making them a perfect backdrop for a weekend lunch. Inside, earthy elements such as stone and hardwood dominate, and in the cooler months, a fireplace acts as a central feature to the room. Manager Janine Heat – formerly of the award winning Lynwood Cafe – has created a modern Australian menu with hints of the Mediterranean – acknowledging the Karelas family’s Greek roots – that she labels “comfort food”. The kitchen stays open all day, delivering starters such as vine wrapped tuna confit, or decidedly Greek kataifi prawn fritters. For mains, warm crispy duck is served with a fig salad, dressed with aged balsamic; and a crispy salmon fillet comes with new potatoes and cornichon créme fraiche. Triple chocolate and hazelnut praline tart makes a great finish, as does a raspberry sorbet with white chocolate blondies – a white take on brownies. A growing feature of this type of country dining is the importance of home grown or locally grown produce, and the people at Lake George Winery are no exception. Zucchini, pumpkin, potatoes, cucumbers and herbs are some of the ingredients coming straight out of the ground and into the kitchen here. Balsamics, oils, jams and chutneys are likewise made from the property’s produce, and are available for sale, as is the range of highly respected Lake George wines.
96
TH E R EG ION
ADDRESS
PRICE RANGE
Federal Highway Lake George (see region map)
Breakfast $5.5 - $17.5 Starters $8.0 - $17.0 Mains $26.0 - $30.0 Desserts $10.0 - $13.0
TEL 02 4848 0182 www.lakegeorgewinery.com.au
LICENCE
OPENING HOURS
Fully licensed No BYO
Thu - Sun 9am - 5pm
CUISINE TYPE Modern Australian
TH E R EG ION
97
ADDRESS 40 Malbon Street Bungendore (see region map)
TEL 02 6238 0662 www.letresbon.com.au
OPENING HOURS Lunch Wed - Sun 12 - 3pm Dinner Wed - Sat 6 - 10pm
CUISINE TYPE French
PRICE RANGE Starters $18.0 - $38.0 Mains $25.0 - $34.0 Desserts $15.0
LICENCE Fully licensed No BYO
98
TH E R EG ION
Amongst the craft shops, galleries and cafes of Bungendore, you will discover Le Tres Bon, a lovely rustic cottage serving authentic French comfort food made from great local produce, within an easy drive of the capital.
C
hef and owner Christophe Gregoire’s love of small towns stems from his own upbringing in a French village smaller than Bungendore, and he speaks with great passion of the familial warmth of such places – something that both he and partner Josephine believe they have found here. Whilst ingredients are mostly local and home-grown, the menu is strictly French, and embraces all the classic elements of that great cuisine. A starter may be a terrine of pork, duck and veal with a crisp salad; or the quintessential snails escargot. For mains, expect to find a hearty bean cassoulet, served with duck confit and a Toulouse sausage; or a barramundi fillet bathed in a smooth anise flavoured sauce, in the style of the Provence. To finish, crepes suzette are perfectly rich and buttery. Josephine and Christophe grow their own herbs in their garden, and along with other vegetables from a reputable supplier in nearby Wamboin, they take pride in bringing as much local organic produce to the table as they can. The local area is fast gaining a reputation as a premium truffle region, and Christophe has managed to build a solid relationship with growers, ensuring he has the pick of the crop each season. The wine list continues the theme of dichotomy, finding locals sharing the list with notable French drops. On your way out, browse the collection of miscellaneous French curios, all for sale and a perfect souvenir of your experience here.
TH E R EG ION
99
Historic Gold Creek – just off the Barton Highway – is the location of this stylish new eatery that demands a closer look for those adventurous visitors who choose to explore the region.
W
hilst technically still inside Canberra, Versatile is hidden amongst the historic splendour of Gold Creek Village, just off the Barton Highway on the way to Murrumbateman’s wine region, which makes it a perfect stop for dinner on the way back from a day of wine tasting and country exploring. Versatile is a new venture for young but experienced restaurateur Andy Hollands – of Ellacure and Soju Girl fame – and impresses with its flair for innovation. Outside, large wraparound balconies with timber deck flooring give a country feel. Inside, a beautiful contemporary and minimalist space – earthy stone masonry, crisp white linen, sleek high backed chairs, fireplace and bar – creates a perfect canvas for the main attraction: the food. Expect hearty European flavours and textures to dominate, with mediterranean and French provincial touches. Start with a plate of rabbit, pork, and pistachio terrine with duck pate and a peach and chilli chutney; or the roast vegetable tart with pickled beetroot and goats cheese. Mains may be prosciutto wrapped beef fillet with pumpkin and caraway seed mash, onion jam and crispy fried leek; or butter roasted chicken with sage, tarragon, and provolone roulade, lyonnaise potatoes and a garlic jus. A vanilla semifreddo with mixed berries and rosewater meringue is a perfect finish, as is a yellow nectarine and vanilla panna cotta, with candied pecans and maple foam.
100
TH E R EG ION
ADDRESS Gold Creek O’Hanlon Place Nicholls (see region map)
TEL 02 6230 9333 www.versatilerestaurant.com.au
OPENING HOURS Dinner Wed - Sat 6 -10pm
CUISINE TYPE Modern European
PRICE RANGE 1 Course $35.0 2 Course $50.0 3 Course $60.0
LICENCE Fully licensed BYO bottled wine only Corkage $4.0 per person
TH E R EG ION
101
Nestled amongst 19 acres of vines on the lower slopes of Lake George Range, Cafe Lerida at Lerida Estate Winery simply begs for a short drive out of Canberra for lunch or afternoon tea.
ADDRESS Federal Highway, Lake George NSW (see region map)
TEL 02 6295 6640 www.leridaestate.com.au
OPENING HOURS Sat - Sun 10am - 5pm Public Holidays 10am - 5pm
102
TH E R EG ION
O
pen on weekends and most public holidays, Cafe Lerida offers delicious and seasonal dishes made with fresh regional produce. The menu’s gluten free breads and homely treats such as home-made pie, scones, quiche, terrine, toasties and Moroccan tagine, appeals to all tastes. The service is quick to accommodate travellers, however lingering by the open fire during winter or taking in the superb views over Lake George from the courtyard during the warmer months is the recommended option, as is a stroll though the vineyard planted with Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Merlot, Shiraz and Viognier grapes. The cellar door, which is open daily, offers the vineyard’s cool climate wines for tastings and purchase. Follow this with a helping of the cheese plate or the Vineyard Platter of smoked meats, olives, relish, marinated fetta and sourdough bread, matched with a glass of Lerida wine and you won’t want to leave this unique winery on the hill. The winery alone will impress on many levels. Designed by Australia’s leading architect, Glenn Murcutt, it’s a spectacular building in a beautiful location and home to some wonderful wines.
Only a 40-minute drive north from Canberra along the Federal Highway – just a couple of kilometres from Collector – you will discover this wonderful bakery, cafe, restaurant and shop, full of country-style goodness.
ADDRESS Fedra Olive Grove 5796 Federal Highway, Collector NSW (see region map)
TEL 02 4848 0240 www.grandmasbakery.com.au
OPENING HOURS 7 days 9am - 4pm
A
drive to Grandma’s Little Bakery and the sweeping views across the breathtakingly picturesque Fedra Olive Grove seems reason enough to visit. But as the name suggests, a wholesome experience awaits. With a focus on home-style cooking and baking, the casseroles, pastries, pies, sweets, organic, artisan and sourdough breads, dips and slow cooked meals are all made with love – just like grandma’s cooking. The owners of this family run business take great inspiration from the grandmothers – and grandfathers – in their lives, combining traditional recipes with the best of local produce. Cooked daily, the Mediterranean inspired meals are simply mouth-watering, and complemented by barista brewed coffee. Don’t leave without trying the traditional savoury borekas made with Grandma’s famous puff pastry. Take a piece of regional goodness with you from the farm shop, which features great gift ideas alongside the fruits of the property — olives and olive oil — as well as home-made cookies, jams, dips, frozen pastries and other frozen meals like Morrocan beef casserole, traditional chicken meatball soup or lamb and bean soup. Grandma’s has recently opened a sister store in Sydney, so if you find yourself craving some of Grandma’s delicacies in that part of the world, you can find their new cafe and bakery at 42 O’Riordan street Alexandria.
TH E R EG ION
103
Belconnen Fresh Food Markets 106-107 // Canberra Centre 108 // bugatti 109 // The Teddy Bear Shop 110 // McGlade’s Jewellers 111 //Ken Cook Menswear 112 // Soma 113 // La Bimbi 114 // Paintbox Fine Art 115 // Gertrude Boutique 116 // Department of the Exterior 117 // Asian Arts Manuka 118 // Escala 119 // Nina Leon’s 120 // Erica’s Aesthetics 121 //
shop and
indulge
address Lathlain Street, Belconnen (off Benjamin Way - see northside map)
Opening hours Wed – Sun 8am – 6pm Some stores open 7 days
Tel 02 6251 1680 www.bffm.com.au
Explore new taste sensations with a variety of fresh, wholesome and organic products, and be enchanted by the welcoming atmosphere of one of Canberra’s oldest fresh food markets.
T
he Belconnen Fresh Food Markets offer an array of products with competitive prices and of course, friendly service. Synonymous with some of the finest selections of nutritious locally grown food in Canberra since 1976, the markets are a place where shopping is an adventure. At Belconnen Fresh Food Markets you will be enchanted by the friendly and vibrant atmosphere among a hub of bustling activity. The wide selection of speciality stores means shoppers will be spoilt for choice. Shoppers will discover gourmet ingredients, seasonal local produce, organic baked goods and fresh and flavoursome meat, seafood and poultry. Yet not just a gourmand’s delight, Belconnen Fresh Food Markets provide casual and sit down dining experiences, florist, book, hairdresser and fashion stores. On the weekends the marketplace is bustling with life and vitality with spruikers, great specials and cooking demonstrations. The festive atmosphere is enhanced as you enter the Piazza area, often filled with song, music and dance. Belconnen Fresh Food Markets is also home to Australia’s only Giant Mushroom Adventure Playground. The playground is a Sunsmart initiative of the markets, supported by the Australian Cancer Society. Your kids will enjoy all the features of the playground, allowing them to play all year round! They may even spot one of the BFFM friends roaming around, they’re always happy to pose for a photo or interact with the kids (and kids at heart) Visit the Belconnen Fresh Food Markets and experience, culture, value and quality.
S HOP & I N DU LG E
107
Canberra’s landmark shopping destination, Canberra Centre dishes up much more than premium retail outlets – although this offering can’t be overlooked, with designer labels like Sass & Bide, Hugo Boss, Sportscraft, G-Star Raw, Oroton, Mimco, French Connection, L’Occitane, David Lawrence and Country Road amongst the Centre’s premium offer. A one-stop leisure destination, Canberra Centre is home to North Quarter – the city’s ultimate dining and entertainment precinct, boasting a vibrant mix of high quality cafes, fine dining and family restaurants in a relaxed and modern setting. This is alfresco dining at its best and a great place to feel the pulse of Canberra. North Quarter also boasts the city’s only Dendy Cinemas, enticing moviegoers with the best of international art house and mainstream films and Canberra’s only Premium Lounge. The world class Canberra Centre has an exciting mix of stores presented in an award-winning design. By all accounts, Canberra Centre is a must see destination. Address Bunda Street, Canberra City (see northside map)
SHOPPING Hours Mon - Thu 9am - 5.30pm Friday 9am - 9pm Saturday 9am - 5pm Sunday 10am - 4pm Public holidays 10am - 4pm Please note that some stores, supermarkets, restaurants and cinemas trade outside these hours. Please consult stores directly.
Tel 02 6247 5611 Fax 02 6257 5232 customerservice@canberracentre.com.au www.canberracentre.com.au
Major STORES David Jones, Myer, Target, Big W, Supabarn Supermarket, ALDI, Dick Smith Powerhouse, JB Hi-Fi, Dendy Cinemas, Restaurant Precinct
108
S HOP & I N DU LG E
When bugatti International looked for a location for their first Australian store three years ago, they chose Canberra.The Canberra Centre store was the first of the new generation of bugatti concept shops, and continues to lead the way in high quality men’s fashion. The ambience is sophisticated, modern and fresh. Find the entire collection of bugatti clothes and accessories for men on display here – including suits, sport coats, ties, shirts, jeans, trousers, knit shirts, shoes, leather accessories and casual jackets, Combining the best European design and materials, the collections are classic yet contemporary. All products are produced using the finest luxury and technical materials to the highest standards.
ADDRESS Shop EGO8B, Ground Floor (on Bunda St) Canberra Centre Bunda Street Canberra
OPENING HOURS Mon - Thu 10am to 6pm Friday: 10am to 9pm Saturday: 10am to 5pm Sunday: 11am to 4pm
TEL 02 6162 2920 S HOP & I N DU LG E
109
When looking for a special gift, a collectible bear or soft toy can be the perfect choice, and The Teddy Bear Shop is the perfect place to find it. Canberra’s only specialty teddy bear and soft toy supplier, they stock iconic brands from round the world including Charlie Bears, Steiff, Hermann, Gund and many others. Keeping the teddies company are all manner of soft toys for kids and adults of all ages. Feel free to drop in anytime for a quick cuddle and browse. The Teddy Bear Shop staff specialise in one-on-one personal service. At The Teddy Bear Shop you’re sure to find a teddy to suit you or the special person in your life. ADDRESS Top level, Shop DF13 Canberra Centre and 6/222 City Walk Canberra City (see northside map)
Opening Hours Mon-Thu 9am - 5.30pm Fri: 9am - 9pm Sat: 9am - 5pm Sun: 11am - 4pm
Tel 02 62576966 www.theteddybearshop.com.au
110
S HOP & I N DU LG E
McGlades Jewellers houses the most outstanding range and quality of handmade jewellery in Canberra. It is a family owned and run business spanning three generations, which is reflected within the contrast between tradition and innovation, apparent throughout their substantial range of fine collections. With over thirty years experience, extensive qualifications in gemmology and valuation plus a keen eye for design, the team at McGlades creates stunning works of art for you to wear and enjoy. McGlades features international collections, as well as artisan collections from Australia. Some of the international brands kept are Thomas Sabo, Pandora and Nomination. The men’s collections include the brands Rochet, Baraka and Stahl. As well as exclusive Swiss watch brands, such as Bulova, Edox and Maurice Lacroix. McGlades also has an extensive range of collectables and giftware, including the famous Royal Copenhagen Porcelain, Royal Selangor Pewter, Moorcroft Pottery and Goebel Porcelain. With a focus and experience in quality and service, the team at McGlades Jewellers ensures that every piece is a masterpiece.
ADDRESS Top level, Shop DF05 Canberra Centre Canberra City (see northside map)
Opening Hours Mon-Thu 9am - 5.30pm Fri: 9am - 9pm Sat: 9am - 5pm Sun: 11am - 4pm
Tel 02 6248 5651 mcglades@mcglades.com.au www.mcglades.com.au
S HOP & I N DU LG E
111
Ken Cook Menswear is an icon for fine men’s clothing in Canberra. Established in 1935, Ken Cook has become synonymous with sourcing the finest mens clothing from around the world. Their Baileys Corner boutique provides a world class showcase for labels such as Armani Collezioni, Armani Jeans, Canali, Joop, Bugatti and LLOYDS. They also specialize in some of Europe’s finest specialist labels such as MEYER trousers and Haupt shirts of Gemany, Sonrisa shirts from northern Italy and Gallieni ties from Como, Italy. This is combined with fantastic service from their expert staff to ensure every piece is both perfectly co-ordinated and fitted. If you are in a rush, they also have a tailor on site for fast alteration service.
ADDRESS “Baileys Corner” Cnr London Cct & Petrie Plaza Canberra City
opening hours Mon - Thu 9am - 5.30pm Friday 9am - 7pm Saturday 9am - 4pm Sunday Closed
TEL 02 6247 9842
112
S HOP & I N DU LG E
Soma - derived from Greek meaning “body and soul”. With attention to detail everywhere you turn, the Soma experience will ignite the wellness spark within. Soma’s 5 Star Rating is maintained by their exquisite surrounds and quality service. You will experience rooms beautifully lit with scented candles. Soothing music streams through a Bang & Olufsen sound system customised to each room. You’ll never want to leave with heated treatment beds, custom artwork and a private shower and change room. Soma’s aim is to ensure your Soma experience is more than you could ever imagine. Located above La Bimbi Salon, they are also able to extend your experience by co-ordinating bookings for hair styling to complete you pampering session. ADDRESS Ground Floor 12 Kendall Lane Acton (see northside map)
Opening Hours Tue, Sat 9am - 5pm Wed 9am - 8pm Thu 9am-9pm Fri 9am - 7pm
Tel 02 6162 3636 www.soma.net.au
S HOP & I N DU LG E
113
La Bimbi was created by Gess Mazis in 2005 and since opening has been a nationally awarded Salon dedicated to quality. The team of stylists are regularly invited to leading European Salons to study and create new trends and to train salon owners. “We all need to celebrate who we are” says Gess. Hence she provides the highest level of ongoing training to her team, ensuring they produce a great collection of individuals that can achieve each guests dreams in a relaxed and pampered environment. Recycled paper, green products, mineral based makeup, even jewellery that has been sourced in cooperation with Tibetan tribes, are part of this salon’s holistic and environmentally conscious approach. The two product ranges La biosthetique and Aveda are used exclusively in the La Bimbi Salons. All services begin with a greeting head and shoulder massage, using a special blend of essential oils that stimulate the senses. Once done, complement your individual style with a unique piece of exclusive La Bimbi Hair jewellery, beautifully designed and crafted. ADDRESS 12 Kendall Lane NewActon Canberra City (see northside map)
Opening Hours Tue 9am - 5pm Wed 9am - 8pm Thu 9am - 9pm Fri 9am - 6pm Sat 9am - 4pm
Tel 02 6239 6153 www.labimbi.com.au 114
S HOP & I N DU LG E
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. address 32 Lonsdale Street, Braddon (see northside map)
Opening hours Wed - Sun 11am - 5pm Closed public holidays
Tel 02 6162 1717 www.paintboxfineart.com
S HOP & I N DU LG E
115
Gertrude is a beautifully appointed boutique in leafy and upmarket Manuka, that offers a luxurious shopping experience for ladies with style. Originally known as Furla, this boutique continues to be Australia’s exclusive supplier of this quality Italian label, but has now extended its range to include luxurious, yet affordable shoes and handbages from high end labels Kate, Daniele Perreti, Voltan and Donna Laura to name a few. All labels are exclusive to Gertrude, and personally selected from Italian suppliers by owner Maree Peatey ahead of each season. Gertrude invites customers to delve through the stylish cuttingedge displays for the perfect gift or self-indulgence. ADDRESS M Centre Bougainville Street, Manuka (see southside map)
Opening Hours Mon - Thu 10am - 5.30pm Fri 10am - 7pm Saturday 10am - 4pm
Tel 02 6232 6004 www.gertrudeboutique.com.au
116
S HOP & I N DU LG E
Tucked away in the corner of an unassuming arcade is this gem of a boutique with a strong Melbourne flavour, stocking highly regarded Australian and New Zealand womenswear labels that will delight those who seek innovative, distinctive and wearable clothes. Labels stocked exclusively in Canberra by Department of the Exterior include Materialbyproduct, Robyn Black, High Tea With Mrs Woo, Obüs, MMSöhn, Envelope, United Constructions and Dogstar. New Zealand labels include Mild Red, Nyne and Women, while local Canberra designers are strongly represented by Eternal Safari, Sebastian’s Sister and Edition. Accessories include bags by Nancybird, hosiery by OK OK and jewellery by Elk.
ADDRESS Shop 1, Ground Floor, Manuka Court 11-17 Bougainville Street, Manuka (see southside map)
Opening Hours Mon - Wed 9.30am - 6pm Thu - Fri 9.30am - 7pm Saturday 10am - 5pm
Tel 02 6239 4225
S HOP & I N DU LG E
117
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. A large range of Japanese origami papers and hand made cards are also available and free gift-wrapping is provided.
ADDRESS Shop 5-6 Manuka Village Furneaux Street Manuka (see southside map)
Opening Hours Mon - Fri 9.30am - 5.30pm Saturday 9.30am - 3.30pm
Tel 02 6232 6199
118
S HOP & I N DU LG E
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, Guglielmo Rotta and Antonio Barbato 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! ADDRESS Shop 1, The Lawns 21 Bougainville St, Manuka (see southside map)
Opening Hours Mon - Fri 10am - 6pm Saturday 10am - 5pm
Tel 02 6232 7666
S HOP & I N DU LG E
119
The fashionable ladies of Sydney, Melbourne and the Southern Highlands will be familiar with Nina Leon’s, and they can rejoice in the fact that they can now shop for their favourite shoes and accessories in Canberra. Located in leafy Kingston, this stylish boutique stocks its own brand of Italian shoes, along with a number of well known labels from Europe. Find shoes and boots from Ara or Peter Kaiser of Germany, Högl of Austria, and Gabriele of Italy. Also available are bags from Cellini, and hats and bags from Helen Kaminski. With over thirty years of trade behind them, Nina Leon’s have the expertise to have you looking your best during your stay in Canberra. ADDRESS Shop 23 Cusack Centre Green Square Kingston (see southside map)
Opening Hours Mon - Fri 9.30am - 5.30pm Saturday 9.30am - 5pm Sun 11am - 3pm
Tel 02 6232 7777 120
S HOP & I N DU LG E
For anyone looking to unwind, rejuvenate and feel great during their stay in Canberra, this gorgeous beauty salon offers the latest treatments combined with the highest European quality and attention to detail, in a stylish and relaxing environment. Treatments available include sugaring – the new alternative to waxing, that is far less harsh and painful, eyelash extensions & perms, shellac manicures & pedicures; and of course a number of advanced rejuvenating facial treatments, and lovely relaxing massages. Erica’s Aesthetics also stock a wide range of products from leading cosmeceutical and organic skincare brands such as Nimue, Botanical Extracts and Youngblood mineral cosmetics. To book a treatment, peruse the pricelist or simply check available times, please visit Erica’s online booking system on the website, or call the salon. address 45 Jardine Street Kingston (see southside map)
Opening hours Mon 8am - 4pm Tue 10am - 6pm Wed - Thu 10am - 8pm Fri 10am - 6pm Sat 9am - 3pm
Tel 02 6162 4199 www.ericasaesthetics.com S HOP & I N DU LG E
121
MAPS and GUIDES The Region 123 // Northside Canberra 124 - 125 // Southside Canberra 126 - 127 // Index 128 //
122
S HOP & I N DU LG E
Versatile Restaurant................................ Flint at the Vines..................................... Grazing at Gundaroo............................... Westering................................................ Lerida Estate........................................... Grandma’s Little Bakery.......................... Le TrÊs Bon............................................
1
e um
H
2
Hum
eH
y Hw
wy
3 4 5 6 7
y n Hw Barto
6
2
dar Gu n
R oo
d
Collector
Murrumbateman
3
5
Murrumb atem a n Rd
4
ni m
aR d
Federal Hwy
Gundaroo Na
Hi ll
Lake George
W ay
Sutto
n Rd
y
n Hw
Barto
Shing le
y
Hw
Ma
ef
d
Rd
eR
Re
or
cs
nd
1
ral
e Fed
ge
Gunghalin
n Bu
s ale itory W rr Te al So t i p w Ca Ne an i l a str Au uth
Sutton
Hall
ne Ave
Bungendore
Rd
Northbour
re
North Canberra
7
Canberra
Canb
Weston Creek
o nd
e ng
Bu
Belconnen
Kings Hwy
Av e
Monaro
South Canberra
er r a
Hwy
Queanbeyan S HOP & I N DU LG E
123
a
BE
b
LC
ON
NE
N
W AY
NORTHSIDE HOTELS & ACCOMMODATION (locations numbered in green on map)
EAT & DRINK (cont)
Aria........................................................................................ 21 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 Lakeside................................................................... 4 University House................................................................... 1 Waldorf Apartment Hotel....................................................... 6
TO BELCON
NEN
Digress Restaurant & Lounge Bar.......................................... F7 IORI........................................................................................ F6 Jewel Of India......................................................................... E6 Joey’s Kitchen.................................................................(see i1) Kremlin Bar............................................................................. F6 The London Burgers & Beers................................................. F7 Ruby Chinese Restaurant......................................................G1 Sage Restaurant.....................................................................G6 Sammy’s Kitchen.................................................................... F6 Soju Girl.................................................................................. F6 Sub-Urban by Belluci’s...........................................................G1 Transit Bar..............................................................................G7 SHOP & INDULGE Belconnen Fresh Food Markets.................................... (see B3) bugatti..................................................................................... F6 Canberra Centre..................................................................... F6 Ken Cook Menswear.............................................................. F7 La Bimbi.................................................................................. D7 McGlades Jewellers............................................................... F6 Paintbox Fine Art.................................................................... F5 Soma...................................................................................... D7 The Teddy Bear Shop............................................................ F5
1
C
M OU
1 2 3 4 5 6
EAT & DRINK Alto Tower Restaurant............................................................ B5 Benchmark Wine Bar.............................................................. F6 Blu Ginger............................................................................... F6 Cafe Pronto............................................................................ F5 City Labor Club....................................................................... F7 Coo Japanese Izakaya........................................................... F6 Cream Cafe & Bar.................................................................. F6 Dieci E Mezzo......................................................................... F6
124
S HOP & I N DU LG E
BL A
Telstra Tower / Black Mountain............................................. New Acton............................................................................. Central Business District....................................................... O'Connor Shops.................................................................... Ainslie Shops......................................................................... Dickson..................................................................................
D
R
areas of interest (locations numbered in red on map)
AY PARKES W
K
NTAIN
f
g
ST
ST
ST
ST LL
OR
ST
EDGAR ST
ST
DUFFY ST
EBDEN
CR
HIGG INS CR
S
L ST O'CONNEL
ST L CAMPBEL
BONNEY LE ST WIS
ST WISE
LIST ER
ST FAWKNER
CR
CE R
D CR
cC O
B
MAJURA
ST ST
M
ST
AV
6
G
FAIRBAIR
N
ST
7 AV
PK
PK
PD
E
ER N
A
GE
AR
RE E
ND
GD
OO
OO
ON
ILO
GD
N
RR
EU
AR
CU
NG
AW AN RR DI RK
ST
OR
AM
ST
REID
ST
TRELOA R
K
AN
COR
E
ST RA
LA AL
OFF I
AN S T
Mc GO WA N W
BANCRO FT
ST
E ST
COWPER
WILSHIR
CHALLIS
FF ST HOPE ST
MONCRIE
DOORING
ST LIONG
ST
GENGE ST
T CC ON ND LO
ST
R DER
OLE BO ST
CO RA ND ER
ST
S WA Y
CAMPBELL 8
C AN
SW AY
ZA
AN KE
AN
PA R
ZA
ZA C
AV
ST C
CLARKE
ST CU S
M AR
ARCHER
WOOLLEY
AV
ST LOWRIE
ST
ST OURNE NORTHB LOWANNA HENTY ST
ST LE LONSDA
MORT
MOORE
ST
OURNE
MACLEAY
WATSON
T YS LE GS KIN S ER ILD CH
CC T
ST
H
CR
AV FORBES ST
ST
ST
EY McCAUGH
D HR RT NO ER SID LIV
ST
CR
GE
DE BURG
EN
ST ST HARTLEY ST MACLEAY
ST
BENT ST
ST GG ATT
FR O RD K
CREE
OW
ST HOVEA
PEDDER ST
BURT ST
PEEL ST
SON ST MACPHER
BUSBY ST
FINN ST
QUINN ST
TODD ST HART ST ST L EY
RID
Y SW EU
NA
ST
OLIVER ST
ST
ST N GO OD WI
LO ST BEL IA GR E ST VIL LE A DIA NE LLA CA ST BR LA IGA DE NIA LO W ST ST
MYALL ST
MILLER ST
WAY ST LORD ST
ST BANNER
D YR
NORTHB
ST A BO OB IA LL
QUANDONG ST
ST
ST COCKLE MILLER
EALTH
AV
ES
RK PA AY W
COMMON W
LE
ST
AV
LIN
GOW ST
ST
ST
DA
ST
EN
G
IN
NN
CA
R
LE YR D
FFY
ST
5
T
ES
EC
DA
DU
EBD
WIN
HOW
RD
4
ST
ST
SS
R
LL
RO
EC
IDG
PBE T CR
ST
IES
BY BEE ST
ST
BR
CAM
SON
UN
E
ST
RT
ST
FIS HE R ST
13
N
REE
CL
IP AV PHILL
ON WD HA
PO VEN DA R FAI
CR
AV
PARK E
COMMONWEALTH PARK
ST ON WD HA
TT NO KER ST ST TES BA EN
ER PAT
RR CO
N
SH
ST
IO
GOO
UT
HASSALL ST
K NEC
ICK
ST
ST
TIT
ST
ST
EE
MB
A ALL
BO NS
3
GDN
QU
E
SLI
AIN
I
CO
A ATT
AN
N
GD
OLM
N
CH
ST
ST
GAR
ST
NA
ST
RU THERF L A ST NG
HERBERT
5
KER
LIE
CHI
A APM
ELIM
NKU
CLE
CR
HOODLE
BA
LES
AL
M BAT
ST
ARA BIN 5
6
CR
ST
DR AK E ST
ST
A
N AKU
NAN
CH
ER ELD
DOO
2
PH
E
ON
3
EST
LIE AINS AV 7
CITY CIR
T IE S
ST
NB
EDI
ST 4
PETR
D AN TL OR SH
ST
E AFF
CR
FA
CCT
VERNON
S
ST
G
H URG
NARE
3
M
R RRE
ON
2
B CO
R YC
S ME T O S BO R E E PK
LDS
NA
DO
ST
ST
ST
PL
TO
RG R CR AVE
RON
AV
HA
CUR
LONDON
EMA
ST FOVEAUX
GRI
BIR
McCOY BRIAN L EWIS CR
LN MAIN BAL
SW AY
TY
8 GAR
CCT
1
SI
CR
GO 2
BALMAIN CR KE
ER
9 ALINGA ST
N
MILLS PA R
IV
N RDO
G
LUM
N
O LEST EGG RD
OP
PER
COW
ST
BAL
RD
COOYON
10
DO LON
AN
RD
RR
DR
11
N TTO L C
COX ST
ST
ST
DA
EAST RD
GA
McKAY ST
ELOUERA
12
BUN
RD
ELLE RY
FELLOWS
WAR D
ST
EEN
N
A ST LLS UN
T
ST
BRADDON
14
RUDD ST
ACTON
WHI
GDN
S
LLA
D
SULLIVANS
N
GIRRAHW
15
AV
WAKEFIE LD
SS
AN
IPIMA ST
ST
PL DEL
BO
AINSLIE
IJO
HENTY
BARRY
O
RO
ERB
SH
T
NS
ST
SUTTOR
LIM
GDN
KE
AV
T GS
1
E
ST
E
RA
RUS ST
DE
RS
MA
TYSON
CO OL AC PL
16
ST
GOULD
D
E ST
ST
HACKETT
ST
ST
ST
ST
T
HOLDER ST
TURNER
MASSON
ST
IC KS ON R
STOCKDAL
WAKEFIE LD
ST
MARSDEN
JU
MA
ER
OOD
AM
ST
GA
INE
ST
INE
ND
CO
DOORING
RT
DUMARESQ
HIR
WP
VID DA
SARG
D
CR
ST
21
17
GREENWAY
NIBBS ST
OO
AV
CONDAM
LL S
W
T
PO
LS WI
LOWANNA
ST
N SO OL
ER
WE STA HA
ST
DR
H NIC
LD
ON
T
TH ORMOND
SPENCER ST
VID DA
S BELL BLUE 4
DICKSON
GO Mc
ST
ERS
NS
AR
CR
ST
CR
RRY
BA
ST
LE CR
18
O'CONNOR
DA VEN
T ST
N C R
SO
STG
RO
N MA ST
RD
HA
BIN
WE
T
S SS
SYM E
BO
RO
HOBBS
FAU NC E
D
ON
M OR
LILLEY ST
CPH MA
ST
L
CO
ST
NP
MORPHET
B E RRIG A
IB
TATE
KSO
STE
R
UR
ST
ST
19
T R IE S
AC
R AH C
COOL
DIC
GUTH
KE
ST
HACK ST
ST
HA
MURDOCH
E TL AT W
DR
ST
LYNEHAM
6
CAPE ST
ST
TS T
IA NKS
NIA
ANTILL
LL
T
M
AN
RO
BA
ST
HEM
DR
RA S
RY
ER
MACARTH
FAIRFAX ST
BAR
EN
BO
ST
HA
A ND DRY
N
NNE BELCO
BA ST NJIN E WA ND OO JA ST RR AH ST ST
AH AT AR W
RIV
FAIRF AX
RE
C
ST
IG BR
T AS
OR
US
OW
AL
CA
CLIANTH
20
ST
IA
IN SS
21
ST
ST
N
SO
DY
ST
ER
LL MI
SC
WAY
ST
IA
AR
RS
BU
i TSON TO WA
MOUAT
h
BADHAM
e
KARUAH
d
TORREN
c
9 S HOP & I N DU LG E
125
a
SOUTHSIDE HOTELS & ACCOMMODATION (locations numbered in green on map)
EAT & DRINK (continued)
Bentley Suites........................................................................ 6 Best Western Motel Monaro.................................................. 17 The Brassey Of Canberra...................................................... 3 Broadway Apartments........................................................... 18 Country Comfort Tuggeranong.............................................. 23 Country Plaza Queanbeyan.................................................. 24 East Hotel.............................................................................. 8 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.............................................................. 22 The Realm............................................................................. 4 Rydges Capital Hill................................................................ 5 York Apartments.................................................................... 12
Farmers Daughter.................................................................. C3
Charlie Black..........................................................................G5 Figaro..................................................................................... H4 Ginseng..................................................................................G5 Jewel of India..........................................................................G5 La Dolce Vita.......................................................................... H4 La Rustica Trattoria................................................................ H4 L’unico Ristorante Italiano...................................................... H4 GLEN
ONA Coffee Specialist............................................................G5 Portia’s Place..........................................................................G5 Public Bar & Dining.................................................................G5 Saffron....................................................................................G5 Thai Chiang Rai...................................................................... H4 YARR A
Tosung Korean BBQ..............................................................G5 Urban Pantry..........................................................................G5
CAR
RUT
Wild Duck............................................................................... H4
HER
S
CARRUTHE
R
SHOP & INDULGE Asian Arts Manuka.................................................................G5 Department of the Exterior.....................................................G5
HUGHES
Erica’s Aesthetics................................................................... H4 Escala.....................................................................................G5 GLEN YARR A
Nina Leon’s............................................................................. H4 1
YA M
2 ST
BA
EST
EASTY ST
N ST ST BOWES
WORGA
MATILDA ST CALLAM
ST
ST
P
N CORRIN
BRADLEY
NEPTUNE ST
A ST
ST HINDMARSH
D
R
ON D
L ATHL
R OSE D
MELR
S HOP & I N DU LG E
PHILLIP
5 ON ST
NC
FURZER
Abell’s Kopi Tiam....................................................................G5 Baan Latsamy.........................................................................G5 Boat House by the Lake..........................................................I 2 Cabinet...................................................................................G5 Cape Cod Seafood Restaurant.............................................. D4
LAU
22
MELROSE DR
5
BALL ST
4
IRV
ING
3
EAT & DRINK
126
ST
Gertrude Boutique..................................................................G5
areas of interest (locations numbered in red on map) Manuka Shopping District...................................................... Kingston Shops / Green Square............................................ Griffith Shops......................................................................... Narrabundah Shops.............................................................. Phillip / Woden Shopping District..........................................
b
23
e
f
h
i
1 CR
PL ES
IA
WINDSOR WK
PK
A
PE
A
H
CR
GI
ST HAM NING CUN
K BAR
ER
AV
RA
ST
BA
NARRABUNDA
ILU
KA
4
ST
CR
CR ST
KARLOO ST
LIM
MINDARIE ST
ARUNTA ST
CR ST RZ EL EC
KI
GDN
I Mc
A AR OT KO
T
HAN
SZ JAN
NT
ST
6
P
A BAREEN TOOLAMBI ST LOORANAH NARAMBI TAL ST LAR ST A WARRAMOO CR PKY ST 20 EAH M U L DER ST GOY ARINYA ST
CR
LUMEAH
T
S AY
DS
MEE
CR
BOO E YR
LA ST
ER S
S
CRE
CR
JE
7
AB
RR
LE
BE OM
CA R
RR
YC
IE CR
A
McINLAY
ST
LIN
KING
HAC
CR
CARNEG
NB
TH
LE
Y
CA M
AT IN
BUNDEE
EVA
ST
DA W
ST
EYRE
T
N
R GD
GH S
ROU
ST
TE
LE IE CR S ST
LO
PE
ES
ST
ST
SBO
ISTE
R
R KE AL W ST SON
KIN
DG
OC
ST
HO
USE
ST
H
CA
LS
EL
W
GRIFFITH T 3 P ROSBY S
LAND
N BAN K COO
ERO
LL
E OV
R
DC
AN
XL
A BL
STURT
LO
FLINDER
HU R
TE
ST
T IER S
5
UME P
AN
E
ST
OM
FR
LL
HE
LOCKYER ST
ROE ST
CAPTAIN
TC
RT
MI
LA PEROUSE ST GR AN T CR
EY C R
NE UR
PK
CIRC LE R
LIGHT ST
ST
AV
ART
NORM AN
ROBE S T
NORTHCOTE D
JOHN McEWEN CR
STATE
HUTCHINS ST
EMPIR
MUELLER ST
E CCT
EC
19
L
ILL
18
ST
MCMILL
OY
RV
GREGORY
FR
UA
DU
ST
ST
AV
LE
DAMPI ER CR
S WAY
BANKS ST
BO
AV
EL
KINGSTON
ST
M
H
T
NORMAN ST LAW L PL EY
ORT
NTW WIT
P
CR
NS
AL BARR
LA P
NAR
RED HILL
4
ST
HANN ST
AUS
MO
WAY
AY SW
DER
HO
ST
P
T TIN S
C VAN
TEN 13 CH S 11 T 12 2 KE CR NN ED R CUR LE Y IC HA 10 OV 14 RDT 9 EN ST S 15 OXL EY 8 16 ST CAN BER 17 RA
T
MA NUKA
LE
VIL
CIRCLE
1
N
CR
MUGGA
T ER S HAYES CR OUV
FLIN
ST
WE
GOSSE
ES
TH W ALE
S
P
AIN
ST
ST
3 BELMORE GDN
DIN
ST
UG
BASS GD
M
HA
T
3 AV
JAR
OY
ST
MONARO CR
ST
CK
WI
KEN
ST UARIE MACQ
ZR
IN
KL
R CI
ARTH UR TORRES
UX ST FURNEA
CIR
IA
SOU
6
AN
ST SBY MORE
RED HILL
FR E ST
DUCAN
FORREST AN
BAUDIN ST
SEY ST
CCT
NEW
AV
CR
CCT
CIR
CR
5
RA
TE NNY SON
DARLING
4
ER
ST
CCT 7
M TAS
BRAS
GAL WA Y PL
D
BARTON ST
BOURKE ST
NB
ST
T
OR
ST
N ST
GHTO
BROU
S ST
NATI ONAL
DO M INION
BLIGH 2
BLACKALL
AV
CA
ST
WALPOLE
FIT
N T VE ON S HA INGT LAM ON ST T X U B
ST
E ON
YS
EM PIR DAV E
EY
BO
DUGAN
CR
D
TALB OT
2
NG
THY TA
DORO
GIPP
AV
ST
CR
AV
L NEY P
BRISBANE
STATE ERS
HOBART
OR
CR DY
WILMOT CR
BROKE
STRAD
DF
SO M
CR
Y RKL BA
T
RING
CR BE
E
DN
ST
P ST BEAUCHAM
T ON S
HOTHAM
CR
T
OR S
GA WL E
R
R
LE
USSON FERG T CC UN TO E ST PE MISID HO CHER ST RVOIS PL JE ON ST NAH BUXT HAN KE ST DBRO L E STRA ICHA CARM ST ON ST RAWS
ST NATHAN
DEAKIN
CAR LA W
ST
SY
CR
DALY
GREY GROSE
REG
G MAC
CA
ST
AIDE
NEW
B NTER
E
CT NAL C NATIO
AV
URY
T TE S DEGA
CAPITAL HILL
ST
ST
ADEL
TC
GS
H
TON
E
KIN
IC HL
WES
SC
HOPETOUN CCT
ST
LOFTUS
BENTHAM ST
TC
DR
OR
TC
BOW EN
CT
GE
PL
OR
IE ST
VI
GE
MACQUAR
FLYNN DR
N
PARKES
PA R PA KES RK ES PL PL
D
PA RK
NG
PA RK ES
WEALTH
LANGTON
COMMON
FLY NN
W AR
CIRCLE
HOOKER ST
ST
ED
CR
DR
KI
EE
AY SW
NG
QU
SCHLICH ST
FULLER ST
KE
1
KI
CORONA TION DR
YARRALUMLA
R PA
KAYE ST
S
A 21
LE
MP
AV
LRY
DA
DR
ST
ST DER
DR
GOY
GARRAN
8
DR
RSH
24
MA
D HIN
M TA AR
DR
ST
DR
3
g
AV
d
NOVAR ST
RS
c
MA
ND
HI
SWINGER HILL
HIN DMA RSH
H RS
O'MALLEY
9 I N DEX
127
INDEX Coffee
Mediterranean
Seafood
Wine Bar
Cafe Pronto........................................................ 38
Joey’s Kitchen.................................................... 44
Cape Cod Seafood............................................. 50
Benchmark Wine Bar.......................................... 18
Cream Cafe & Bar.............................................. 28
Figaro................................................................. 80
Ruby Chinese Restaurant.................................. 42
Soju Girl.............................................................. 20
Thai Cuisine
Wine Tasting
Baan Latsamy..................................................... 66
Lerida Estate.................................................... 102
Farmers Daughter.............................................. 52 Grandma’s Little Bakery..................................... 34
Middle Eastern Cuisine
Joey’s Kitchen.................................................... 44
Saffron................................................................ 76
ONA Coffee Specialist........................................ 88 Urban Pantry...................................................... 68
Chinese Cuisine
Modern Asian Cuisine
Thai Chiang Rai.................................................. 86
Abell’s Kopi Tiam................................................ 72 Baan Latsamy..................................................... 66
Westering (Lake George Winery)....................... 96 Flint in the Vines (Shaw Vineyards).................... 94
Art
Ginseng.............................................................. 64
Ginseng.............................................................. 64
Tapas
Ruby Chinese Restaurant.................................. 42
Sammy’s Kitchen................................................ 30
Benchmark Wine Bar.......................................... 18
Asian Arts Manuka........................................... 118
Sammy’s Kitchen................................................ 30
Soju Girl.............................................................. 20
Cream Cafe & Bar.............................................. 32
Paintbox Fine Art.............................................. 115
Cabinet............................................................... 89
Modern Australian Cuisine
Kremlin Bar & Tapas.......................................... 48
Gifts
Portia’s Place...................................................... 82 Wild Duck........................................................... 56
Asian Arts Manuka........................................... 130
Boat House by the Lake..................................... 16
Urban Pantry...................................................... 68
French Cuisine
Cafe Pronto........................................................ 38 Cream Cafe & Bar.............................................. 28
Cocktails
Grandma’s Little Bakery..................................... 34
Le Tres Bon........................................................ 98
Farmers Daughter.............................................. 52
Cream Cafe & Bar.............................................. 28
Grazing at Gundaroo.......................................... 92
Digress Restaurant & Lounge............................ 34
Hair & Beauty
Blu Ginger........................................................... 32
Public Bar & Dining............................................. 60
Kremlin Bar & Tapas.......................................... 48
Digress Restaurant & Lounge............................ 34
Urban Pantry...................................................... 68
Cabinet............................................................... 89
Jewel of India City.............................................. 22
Westering........................................................... 96
Public Bar & Dining............................................. 60
Jewel of India Manuka........................................ 70
Modern European Cuisine
Italian Cuisine
Alto Tower Restaurant........................................ 12 Benchmark Wine Bar.......................................... 18
Live Music
Dieci E Mezzo..................................................... 10
Dieci E Mezzo..................................................... 10
Charlie Black...................................................... 64
Digress Restaurant & Lounge............................ 34
Flint in the Vines................................................. 94
Sub Urban by Belluci’s....................................... 40 Transit Bar.......................................................... 49
Indian Cuisine
The Teddy Bear Shop...................................... 110
Sage (Mint Bar).................................................. 14
Figaro................................................................. 80
Pulp Kitchen....................................................... 54
La Dolce Vita...................................................... 84
Sage Restaurant................................................. 14
La Rustica Trattoria............................................ 74
Versatile............................................................ 100
L’unico Ristorante Italiano.................................. 78
Soju Girl.............................................................. 20
Nightclub
Erica’s Aesthetics............................................. 121 La Bimbi............................................................ 114 Soma................................................................ 113
Jewellery McGlades Jewellers......................................... 111
Markets & Shopping Centres Belconnen Fresh Food Markets....................... 106 Canberra Centre............................................... 108
Mens Fashion & Accessories bugatti............................................................... 109
Sub Urban by Belluci’s....................................... 40
Pub Food & Club Bistro
Cabinet............................................................... 89
Ken Cook Menswear........................................ 112
Digress Restaurant & Lounge............................ 34
Japanese Cuisine
City Labor Club................................................... 46
Transit Bar.......................................................... 49
Womens Fashion & Accessories
The London Burgers & Beers............................. 26
Kremlin Bar & Tapas.......................................... 48
Coo Japanese Izakaya....................................... 36 IORI.................................................................... 24
Korean Cuisine Tosung Korean BBQ.......................................... 62
Public Bar & Dining............................................. 60 Sub Urban by Belluci’s....................................... 40
Pool Tables Transit Bar.......................................................... 49
Department Of The Exterior............................. 117 Escala Shoes.................................................... 119 Gertrude Boutique............................................ 116 Nina Leon’s Shoe Boutique.............................. 120
Get
clicking to ! a r r e b Can d n a ra r e b n a C re lo p x E the region online at visitcanberra.com.au
Here you’ll find all there is to know about the attractions, events, exhibitions, tours, food, wine and entertainment in Canberra and the region.You can even book your attraction tickets online. You can also visit the Canberra and Region Visitors Centre open daily on Northbourne Avenue, Dickson, or call 1300 554 114 for more information.
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 ISSN
1 8 3 5 - 8 6 4 0
Volume 08 | May 12 - Sep 13 Š Australian Tourism Publishing Pty Ltd
RRP AUD$39.95 gst included
08
9
771835
864075
www.thisiscanberra.com.au