Caught a bad case of the Monday blues? Trade in your usual Netflix in-bed routine and hit the town for a Monday night feed. Canberra’s food scene is alive and well every night of the week. With plenty of spots to make your way through, we’ll help you start your week off on a high.
Rebel Rebel
Spend your Monday wisely by lounging at the casual yet elevated eatery, Rebel Rebel. They have made their mark as a unique asset to New Action’s thriving food scene. Each item on the menu is thoughtful and deliberate, with everything from kingfish sashimi and confit duck to beef tartare making an appearance. Wine is Rebel Rebel’s speciality, with the help of the knowledgeable staff, take your pick off their impressively curated list.
Such and Such
Want somewhere easy, lively, and carefree? Look no further than Such and Such. The quirky, youthful restaurant tucked away in the middle of the city is the perfect haven to escape your daily woes. They are proudly making wine more accessible and less serious, shining the spotlight on small independent producers. If you want to explore some new niche flavours, add Such and Such to your list.
Monster Kitchen and Bar
Spice up your Monday with renowned new-world vegetarian at Monster Kitchen and Bar. With a focus on sustainability, regionality and seasonality, you can rest assured every dish has been made with care and consideration. You can expect a refined yet eccentric character, crafting delicious meals, elevated wines, and playful cocktails.
Inka
Enjoy a unique culinary experience at the Japanese-Peruvian restaurant, Inka. With dishes designed for sharing, spend the evening with someone special and cure your Monday slump. If you’re in the mood to treat yourself, indulge in their heavenly tasting menu featuring yuzu glazed brussels sprouts, grilled Hokkaido scallops and potato crisp huancaina.
Akiba
Pop into Akiba and discover an electric atmosphere inspired by the great food halls and dining rooms of East Asia. Spice up your Monday with a fun, fast-paced dining experience and flavoursome dishes, with options like of miso dengaku eggplant, Japanese fried chicken and Peking duck dumplings. Then couple your feed with a cheeky wine, sake or cocktail, Akiba style.
The Italian Place
Italian lovers listen up! Mort Street’s favourite joint, The Italian Place, has kicked off its new spring opening hours so you can treat yourself to authentic Italian dishes any night of the week. Take advantage of daylight savings and grab an early sunset dinner under the outdoor umbrellas. Or use the night to unwind and get cosy in the warm, intimate inside space. After dinner, pop by the Providore just next door, stocked with the best staples from Italia and the Canberra region. Browse and get everything you need to recreate a nostalgic meal with a delicious wine pairing at home.
White Chaco
In desperate need of some comfort food? Don’t worry, White Chaco has got you covered. The intimate ramen restaurant never fails to deliver in taste and nostalgia. Ramen may be their specialty, but there are plenty of other options with sashimi, crispy eel, and ever-changing specials. Make this romantic, cosy spot your Monday night go-to.
Agostinis
Rediscover authentic Italian cuisine at the family-owned treasure, Agostinis. There is nothing like a creamy spring risotto, pumpkin and goat’s cheese ravioli or classic prosciutto and rocket pizza to lift your spirits. Their charming and homey feel makes it one of Manuka’s local favourites.
Zaab
Check out Zaab Street Food, an upbeat venue nestled in the heart of Lonsdale Street. Discover a fun, eclectic space where sleek copper bar tops meet striking graffiti wall art. They offer a modern take on Southeast Asian cuisines, with a focus on Lao and Thai flavours, with choices between flamed cauliflower, chicken satay and roasted eggplant to say the least.
Queenies
Head to Kingston and feel like royalty at Queenies. This local staple puts Canberra first, serving beer and wine sourced exclusively from the Canberra region. Make your way through their divine spring menu, paired with one of their uniquely crafted cocktails. Then come back at the end of the week to catch the live jazz and good vibes.
Looking for a spot to grab a mid-day meal instead? Check out 10 laid-back lunch spots for spring.