As the sun begins to warm up Canberra, it's time to embrace the great outdoors and indulge in some al fresco dining. With a forecast of 18 degrees, we're ready to swap the heater for a sunny table and enjoy the best of what the city has to offer. So, let's dive into some of the top spots to eat outside and make the most of this delightful weather.
Lakeside Luxury
For a truly picturesque dining experience, Caffè al Lago in Gungahlin takes the cake. Sitting right on the edge of Yerrabi Pond, this Italian deli-café serves up some seriously mouth-watering sandwiches. Their schiacciata menu is a standout, featuring unique combinations like La Speciale with prosciutto and aged balsamic, or the Pistachio Mortadelle with a twist of basil pesto and pistachios. Pair your meal with an iced latte or matcha, and you've got the perfect lakeside lunch.
Views and Vibes
Kiln at Belco Arts offers a unique dining experience with a view of Lake Ginninderra. From shakshuka to fish and chips, their all-day menu caters to all tastes. And with a wine list to match, you can easily turn a quick bite into a memorable afternoon. As the sun sets over the lake, Kiln becomes the ideal spot for a relaxed dinner, making it a must-visit for those seeking a vibrant atmosphere.
Tacos by the Lake
Cartel Tacos brings a taste of Mexico to Belconnen, with its Boardwalk location overlooking Lake Ginninderra. Their menu is a celebration of bold flavors, featuring tacos loaded with ingredients like butter-poached WA lobster and house béchamel. Wash it down with a frozen margarita, and you've got yourself a delicious and messy dining experience.
Greenery and Gourmet
Pollen, nestled within the Australian National Botanic Gardens, offers a unique dining setting surrounded by lush greenery. Their menu features creative dishes like Creamy Mushroom Toast and a Smoked Trout Salad. After your meal, explore the gardens and make it a full-fledged outdoor adventure.
Deli Delights
Dom's Deli & Bar in Acton serves up compact yet flavorful sandwiches. Their focaccia creations, like the Dom's Special with mortadella and basil pesto, are a delight. Whether you opt for a sandwich or a toastie, pair it with an iced latte for the ultimate outdoor dining experience.
Beer Garden Bliss
Edgar's in Ainslie boasts a sunny beer garden, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a meal and a drink. From Turkish eggs for breakfast to karaage chicken and tacos later in the day, their menu caters to all times of the day. And for a more elevated experience, head upstairs to The Inn's terrace for stunning views.
Assembly's Charm
Assembly in Braddon offers multiple outdoor spaces, including a beer garden and a people-watching spot on Lonsdale Street. Their menu features a range of options, from KFC wings to steak sandwiches and burgers. With a variety of drinks to choose from, Assembly is the ideal place to spend a leisurely afternoon.
Seafood and Sun
Snapper & Co. in Yarralumla allows you to dine in The Courtyard or on the lawns with a picnic rug. Their seafood-centric menu includes fish and chips, barramundi, and NZ snapper. For an afternoon treat, indulge in fresh oysters or a scoop of gelato from their onsite bar.
Lakefront Living
Walt & Burley in Kingston is the perfect spot to spend an afternoon by Lake Burley Griffin. Start with shared plates like prawn tacos or burrata, and then move on to larger dishes like their Burley Beef Burger or picanha rump cap. With live music and a great drinks list, it's an ideal spot to unwind.
Garden Bar Charm
The Kingston Hotel's Garden Bar in Kingston is tucked into a leafy garden, offering a relaxed atmosphere. Their bar snacks menu goes beyond the usual, featuring fish tacos and sticky pork bao buns. For a more substantial meal, Maddies Restaurant serves up pub favorites like chicken schnitzel and BBQ ribs.
Manuka Buzz
Public Bar in Manuka puts you right in the heart of the action with its spacious outdoor area. Enjoy people-watching while tucking into pork belly sliders or a Public Burger. Their cocktail list is perfect for a sunny afternoon, with options like Aperol Spritzes and Espresso Martinis.
Family-Friendly Fun
Wildflour in Fyshwick is a charming café with a shaded outdoor area and a dedicated playground. Their breakfast menu features Spanish eggs and corn fritters, while their sourdough is a highlight. It's the ideal spot for a relaxed brunch with the family.
Neighborhood Charm
Two Blind Mice in Curtin offers a relaxed outdoor dining experience with a focus on wood-fired pizza and Italian-inspired dishes. From beef ossobuco ragu to venison gnocchi, their menu caters to all tastes. With midweek specials, it's a great option for a casual family meal.
Southside Charm
Fox & Bow in Farrer is a southside gem for a relaxed outdoor brunch or lunch. Their menu features Spanish eggs and zucchini fritters, as well as a unique Reuben with smoked beef brisket. As the weather warms up, their chilled drinks menu, including iced coffee and matcha, is a refreshing choice.
Farm-to-Table Experience
Beltana Farm in Pialligo offers a unique farm-to-table dining experience. Their menu is designed for sharing, featuring dishes like chargrilled tuna and bay-smoked lamb rump. In summer, the dining room opens up to the outdoors, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor experience.
Lake Views
Two Before Ten in Greenway provides a lake view dining experience in Tuggeranong. Their menu features creative dishes like chilli eggs and apple crumble hotcakes. With cold brew and iced lattes, it's the perfect spot to enjoy a coffee with a view.
Community Café
Little Luxton in Gordon offers a sun-dappled deck and a large sandpit, making it ideal for families. Their simple café fare, like Sonoma banana bread and toasties, is done to perfection. Little Luxton also supports community programs, making it a feel-good dining experience.
As you can see, Canberra has an abundance of outdoor dining options to suit every taste and occasion. From lakeside luxury to community cafés, these spots are sure to enhance your dining experience and make the most of the warmer weather. So, get out there and enjoy the best of what Canberra has to offer!
