LOCATIONOpposite Old Parliament House in the suburb of Parkes, just a few minutes’ drive from the centre of Canberra.
PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIALike many of Canberra’s best establishments, the Lobby in Parkes is a well-kept secret. You will not find it in many tourist guides, but it is fundamental to the history of this city. Located directly opposite Old Parliament House and looking out over the beautiful rose gardens of Commonwealth Place, the venue is next to the Pork Barrel Café in the heart of the iconic Parliamentary Triangle. The design of the building itself is none the less spectacular with ceiling-to-floor glass windows surrounded by lush and exotic vegetation sometimes uncommon in Canberra. This is why you can often find weddings and celebrations being enjoyed amongst the garden and restaurant.
Chef Joel Jones is inspired by the verdant surroundings of the Lobby which shows through his earthy dishes and light desserts. This lunch enjoys char-grilled pear and squash tart flanked by baby spinach salad with roasted walnuts and rubble of blue cheese. Pan-fried snapper with braised fennel and semi dried tomatoes is presented on crispy roti discs, and sauced with lime beurre blanc to finish. The warmer weather can be tasted in desserts such as the white chocolate and mango crème brulée served with pistachio ice-cream.
The Lobby embodies classic elegance to be enjoyed with the earthy characters of Jones’ dishes. An experience at the restaurant makes a sophisticated dinner or special event or a memorable affair.
Elizabeth Hall
FUNCTIONSPerfect for Christmas parties, corporate functions, private dining, weddings, special anniversaries and any other occasion worth celebrating in stately style, The Lobby can seat up to 170 comfortably. The quality and range of food and beverage packages available cement this establishment as a refined and elegant choice, with impressive menus overseen by chef Joel Jones; feast on canapés of minced pork and ginger dumplings served with soy glaze and pork floss, through to main course meals of Hiramasa kingfish with pomme frites, carrot purée and gremolata.