8 Nice Restaurants in Canberra Worth the Hype (and a visit)

Right in the middle of the CBD, The Meat & Wine Co delivers exactly what the name promises. Top-tier steaks and an impressive wine list. Among the must-try options is a Monte Wagyu or dry-aged ribeye with truffle mac and cheese on the side. Not into steak? Also on the menu are sticky beef ribs that fall off the bone, seafood cooked just right and starters that are hard to ignore. Top it all off with a glass (or bottle) from the impressive wine list, featuring some of Australia’s favourite wines, accompanied by a few global gems. 

If views are what you are after, then this place has you covered. Water’s Edge is one of Canberra’s most picturesque, nice dining destinations. Fit with floor-to-ceiling windows surrounding the dining room. Through them, you will be treated to the breathtaking views of Lake Burley without having to move from your table. Top that off with a menu suited to every taste. Try for yourself the honey-spiced duck breast or lamb backstrap, paired with the finest Australian and international wines. The multi-course degustation is perfect for those wanting to enjoy the full experience.  

Located within the heritage-listed Hotel Kurrajong, Chifley's focuses on premium Australian produce, and you can taste the care in every plate. Much of the food and wine is sourced from growers and producers in the region. If you are going all in, a standout is their steak. Either a David Blackmore wagyu or Cape Grim Black Angus, both cooked just the way you like it. Pair it with seared scallops or their golden duck-fat potatoes for a meal you’re not likely to forget. Looking for something special to drink? Order their signature whiskey cocktail, the one with the 23-carat gold leaf on top. 

Contentious Character has a name that is guaranteed to pique your interest. It's fun, playful and just the right amount of quirky. Something the restaurant lives up to. It's a cellar door complemented by a restaurant with a menu that keeps you coming back for more. Dishes are designed to pair with their own estate-grown wines. Dry-aged duck, premium steak, and house fries with rosemary citrus salt are just a few favourites. 

Located south in Philip, Indian Affair has built a reputation for itself and for good reasons. It is a place people choose to return to, not just for the food (which is reliably great), but for the way it feels. Welcoming and familiar, the menu is full of the favourites - from butter chicken and lamb rogan josh that’s been slow-cooked until it practically melts, to veg staples like palak paneer and daal makhani that never disappoints. Each dish is made from scratch, using only the best fresh spices, house-made pastes, and traditional techniques giving the dish its bold, authentic flavour.  

Tucked inside Casino Canberra, Natural 9 might not be where you’d expect to find one of the city's nicer dining spots. The menu leans into Chinese flavours but with a fresh Australian edge, sourcing local ingredients where possible. Favourites on the menu? The miso-glazed salmon is the kind of dish you’ll be thinking about the next day, the bao buns are light and crisp, and the salt and pepper squid is always a crowd pleaser. If you’re hungry, consider the wagyu short rib - rich, tender and cooked with care. The vibes are immaculate, with an open kitchen and a stellar wine list that’s nicely balanced, with plenty of focus on Canberra’s own winemakers.  

Located down an alleyway off Marcus Clarke Street in Canberra’s CBD, Terra is known for its smoked meats over charcoal. During the day, it serves takeaway breakfast, lunch featuring brisket meat sandwiches with salads and vegetables. For dinner, chicken, beef and pork options that will have you loosening your belt. They are again accompanied by fresh salads and vegetables from local growers and providers in the area.  

Mu Omakase is the first Japanese restaurant of its kind in Canberra, where the guests don’t select their meals. Omakase translates to “leave it up to you”, and at Mu, that means an 11-course journey selected by the chef based on what produce and ingredients are best on the day. Every dish is prepared right in front of you, from delicately sliced sashimi to warm, balanced cooked courses. Premium sake pairings are available, and bookings are essential with very limited seats each night.