Pubbin’ in the Capital: These Are The Best Pubs In Canberra

A post-work Friday night wind down or a lazy Sunday afternoon of pub food and pints are both amongst life’s greatest pleasures. Pubs are gathering places for good food, great friends, cold drinks and live music — a sacred combo. And whilst it may be small, Canberra’s pub scene offers plenty. 

Whether you are looking for a Saturday night pub crawl or a lazy Sunday arvo spot for beers and burgers, hitting a pub is always a good idea. So, gather your mates and read on for our edit of the best pubs in Canberra. 

Assembly

Assembly, The People’s Pub is exactly that — a place for the people to congregate and enjoy a drink, a bite to eat and relaxed, modern vibes. Located on Lonsdale Street in Braddon, Assembly has a fantastic courtyard, as well as an indoor area to indulge in a Sunday sesh and forget all about the fact that tomorrow is Monday. On top of classic pub dishes, you can score a delicious selection of woodfire grilled bites — think tiger prawns and jerk chicken. 

11 Lonsdale Street, Braddon

Edgar’s Inn

A local hang-out, Edgars Inn is the spot for an after-work drink, mid-week pub dinner, Friday night pizzas and weekend boozy brunches. Their dark wood, cosy-style pub is adorable, especially during the colder months and their outdoor terrace can be fully enclosed if need be, sealing in all the heat.

1 Edgar Street, Ainslie

Public 

Public is one for lovers of modern pubs with epic food share plate offerings and inventive cocktails on top of the classics, of course. Timber furnishing, tiled walls and splashes of greenery throughout will be the backdrop to your beverages. Any night of the week, this place is pulsing, thanks in part to its nightly specials board.

1-33 Flinders Way, Griffith 

The Pedlar

A thriving little spot on Constitution Avenue, The Pedlar has earned itself a reputation for its mouth-watering, modern pub menu and its awesome booze menu. The Pedlar has a relaxed ambience and is popular for after-work drinks as well as a Saturday afternoon lunch, perhaps after you’ve strolled around Lake Burley Griffin. They’ve also got some great mid-week meal deals going so be sure to keep an eye out here for a budget-friendly feed. 

65 Constitution Avenue, Campbell

King O’Malleys

We couldn’t go past the legendary King O’Malleys in Civic! Ask any true Canberran if they know this pub and a smile will likely form on their face. Famous for their Guinness and local ale, King O’Malleys is a great place to catch up with friends for a drink, enjoy a meal or even dance the night away!

131 City Walk, Canberra City

Fenway Public House 

Another modern update on the traditional pub, Fenway Public House ups the ante on a classic. You’ll find a cocktail sunroom, sunken indoor beer garden and a mezzanine available to enjoy your time with friends. The food is killer and covers everything from small share plates and pizza to larger plates, including slow-cooked pork ribs and crispy pan-fried duck breast. 

R01/9 Bradley Street, Phillip 

The Duxton

Located at the iconic O’Connor shops, The Duxton is a good time. Their kitchen is open from lunch until late and they love to screen the footy (obviously cheering for The Raiders), bottomless brunches, trivia nights and more. Choose from their feasting or bistro menu — whichever you choose, the food is yummo.

8 Macpherson Street, O’Connor

The Old Canberra Inn

Now, this is a historical gem! The Old Canberra Inn was one of the first licensed pubs in Canberra, opening its doors in 1974 and the building itself is even older — it was built in 1857! These days, this old-school pub is renowned for its craft beers on tap and family-friendly vibes. Located conveniently close to the Hume Highway, The Old Canberra Inn is a stopover point for those travelling to and from Sydney and Melbourne.

195 Mouat Street, Lyneham

Capital Brewing Co

Pub? Brewery? Same, same. If you’re after a pint in Canberra, Capital Brewing Co. is an essential stop. As one of the largest independent breweries in Australia, you can expect plenty of choice when it comes to bevs. They have an extensive core range, covering everything from XPA to low-carb lager, as well as a seasonal selection of brews.

As for the tap room itself, there’s plenty of space as well as a fireplace in winter and outdoor seating galore for the warmer months. When you start feeling peckish, make your way to the on-site Brodburger truck for some of the best burgers in town.

3/1 Dairy Road, Fyshwick

Loving our picks of the best pubs in Canberra? If you’re someone who likes to be ‘in the know’, we’ve not only found you Canberra’s best bars but also our foodie’s guide to Lonsdale Street.