Where to Go for The Best Lunch in Canberra
Whether it's a casual catch-up, a quick lunch break sando, or a fancy fine-dining feast, these venues are serving the best lunch in Canberra.
Canberra isn't all politics and galleries, so when you need a break from your city exploring, you'll be pleased to know there are plenty of foodie spots for a tasty lunch break.
From trendy cafes and deli-style sandwich shops to modern bistros, the capital city serves a mix of cuisines and vibes that cater to every palate and event.
Whether you are looking for a gourmet sandwich, a hearty bowl of ramen, a fresh salad or a decadent meal, Canberra's lunch scene has you sorted. Read on for where to go for the best lunch in Canberra, whatever your budget...
Best Lunch Canberra: $
INTRA
If chic, minimalist eateries set your heart aflutter, consider Intra your new go-to for a stylish lunch spot. This cafe boasts sleek, monotone interiors and a highly curated all-day dining menu.
Rotating regularly, you'll find a selection of brunch and lunch favourites including bircher, kimchi jaffles, fresh pastries and scrambled eggs. As for the coffee, you've got options with espresso, pour-over and batch brew, plus an extensive wine list if you want to linger a little longer.
30/12 Provan Street, Campbell
Al's Deli & Diner
You can't go wrong come lunchtime with a coffee and sambo combo and Al's just happens to be expert at both. Swing by for a quick and easy lunch whether you're craving a shnitty roll, or something fancier.
122 Alinga Street, Canberra
Verity Lane Market
Perfect for a casual lunch (or a fun date night) in Canberra, Verity Lane Market is a buzzing food hub filled with vendors serving mouth-watering cuisines from around the globe.
It's a brilliant dining experience for those looking for something different, where you can book a table and choose your vendor, ordering food and drink directly from each kiosk.
The market is as central as it gets, walking distance from Canberra centre, making this a standout choice for a catch up with family or friends.
50 Northbourne Avenue, Canberra
Ramen O
If you’re looking for the best ramen and gyoza come lunchtime in Canberra, head to Belconnen. Trust us - Ramen O is worth the trip.
The tonkotsu style (pork bone) broth is based on the owner and head chef’s family recipe expertly made. Not convinced? The owner has worked in some of Australia’s best Japanese restaurants - including Nobu - so you know you're in for a treat.
One of the best lunch spots in Canberra when you need speedy service!
1F/54 Benjamin Way, Belconnen and G09/35 Furzer Street, Phillip
Best Lunch Canberra: $$
Med.
A restaurant where the interior deserves as much hype as the food, Med is one of the newest members of the Canberra food scene - and they are becoming a fast favourite.
When a long lunch is on order, make a booking at Med, and dine in on a menu inspired by the flavours of Turkey, Greece and Lebanon. Think plenty of fresh flavours, smokey aromas and a hint of spice.
Start with hummus and pita before moving on to BBQ octopus, lamb kofta and tender meats from the Josper charcoal oven and grill.
1 Burbury Close, Barton
Such and Such
From the team behind award-winning Pilot - one of the most-loved restaurants in Canberra - Such and Such is your friendly neighbourhood watering hole.
An all-day restaurant with great wine and chilled vibes, you can drop in for a snack and a glass of vino or a laid-back long lunch with a set menu and a la carte options catering to all levels of hunger.
Heavy on nostalgia, the menu shifts with the seasons but features innovative flavour combos, comfort eats and top-notch produce. If we could recommend one dish, it's the potato-stuffed pierogi with buttermilk and chives. Divine.
8/220 London Circuit, Constitution Place, Canberra
Rebel Rebel
If you want to up the ante on your boring weekday lunch, Rebel Rebel is loved by working locals for in-between meetings and casual catchups.
Their modern Australian fare is unique, but still works perfectly when you want an express lunch. Fancy a beef tartare for lunch? Or maybe you want to nibble on a bowl of chips and aioli with a cheeky glass of wine? If you can grab yourself a seat, it’s worth the wait.
Shop 21-23 Marcus Clarke Street, Canberra
Best Lunch Canberra: $$$
Lunetta
Destination dining in Canberra doesn't get better than this. Atop Red Hill, nestled within one of Canberra’s modernist icons, you’ll find this light-filled restaurant serving up exquisite contemporary feasts. Soak up sweeping views whilst indulging in a caviar service, porchetta and ravioli then wrap things up with a digestif.
Level 1/60 Red Hill Drive, Red Hill
KOTO
If you're planning a lunch for a special occasion or just fancy a treat, head to KOTO where you'll be able to soak up the dazzling traditional architecture by day. They have some great bento box specials for lunch which will allow you to sample the kaiseki menu for a fraction of the price. If you have a little longer, consider lingering over one of Koto's tasting menus.
1 King George Terrace, Parkes
Now that you've satisfied your hunger with the best lunch in Canberra, it's time to get back out there and explore the national capital. Don't miss a thing with our guides to the best markets in town, and get active with the best walks in the area.
