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While there’s no shortage of places to dine out in Canberra, nothing quite beats the feeling of successfully hunting down culinary gold.
After all, that’s half the fun, isn’t it? And from secret wine bars to unforgettable experiences, there are plenty of hidden venues that are worth a visit—if you can find them.
But if you’re not in the know, don’t worry. To help you out, here’s our list of gems you need to re-discover around town. Just remember, looks can be deceiving…
Alcove (Braddon)
Tucked at the back of the Branx building in Braddon, Alcove is, indeed, a hidden alcove—but this only adds to the air of exclusivity at this cocktail bar. Melding food and drink in a unique way, it’s quickly made a name for itself as THE swanky and sophisticated place to visit for an unforgettable culinary—and sensory—experience.
Open Thursday to Saturday, 5 pm until late | 105/16 Lonsdale Street, Braddon | alcovebar.com.au
White Chaco (Braddon)
Home to the mouth-watering truffle ramen (where the magic elixir of white truffle oil plays with the flavours of vegetable and shitake broth, fried tofu, fungus, Japanese seaweed, and braised bamboo), if you blink you might just miss where White Chaco is tucked away in Braddon. And while the menu may be small, dining on their Asian fusion dishes will make tracking the venue down well worth it.
Open Thursday to Sunday, 5:30 pm – 9 pm, Monday 5:30 pm – 9 pm and Wednesday 5:30 pm – 9 pm | g10/27 Lonsdale St, Braddon | whitechaco.com
Bar Rochford (Civic)
Hidden away in one of Canberra’s oldest buildings, you’ve probably walked past the award-winning Bar Rochford without even realising it. All about fine food and good wine, the menu is constantly changing—meaning you’ll need to go more than once to fully immerse yourself in their offerings.
Open Tuesday to Saturday, 5 pm – 12 am | 1st/65 London Circuit, Civic | barrochford.com
11e Cave (Kingston)
It’s housed in a subterranean cavern, but this cosy bar isn’t hard to find. Located on the corner of Kennedy and Eyre Street in Kingston, behind the little red door you’ll discover moody, Melbourne-esque vibes, a cracking wine and cocktail list, and moreish snacks. Think: Clyde River oysters, Under Bakery sourdough, duck liver pâté, and much more.
Open Tuesday to Saturday, 5:30 pm until late | 5/39 Kennedy Street, Kingston | onzieme.com.au
Table by Canberra Gourmet (Majura)
You might not expect to find a fun, fine dining experience in Majura but that’s exactly where Table by Canberra Gourmet is located. With limited tickets available for each Chef’s Table Degustation, dining here is a highly intimate experience where you’ll tantalise your tastebuds with innovative and interesting dishes like chard kangaroo with sour cabbage, port jus, and lilly pilly. Just make sure to book in advance to secure a spot.
Open Thursday and Friday, 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm and Saturday 12:30 pm – 8:30 pm | Unit A/23 Mount Majura Road | canberragourmetshop.com
Feature image: Bar Rochford. Credit: Ashley St George.