Where to Go for 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.

We've tried and tested the best lunch in Canberra, where every meal is so good you may think lunch deserves to be labelled the most important meal of the day. Let's dig in!

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.

Open for lunch Tuesday to Friday, 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

INTRA

If chic, minimalist eateries set your heart aflutter, consider Intra your new go-to for a stylish lunch spot. Both locations boast sleek, monotone interiors and highly curated all-day dining menus.

Rotating regularly, you'll find a selection of brunch and lunch favourites including bircher, rolls, 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. 

Braddon & Campbell 

Margot

We adore a wine bar where we can pop by for espresso in the AM and a glass of bubbles and share plates of charcuterie in the PM. When it’s positioned right on the edge of Lake Burley Griffin, it's made even better.

At Margot, the beverages draw a crowd, with a highly curated selection of accompaniments to your meal. We adore their minimalist approach that makes for an easy, fuss-free lunch in Canberra.

You can look forward to Wildflower pastries with a coffee and a selection of cheeses, olives and locally sourced nuts with your afternoon tipple.

West Kiosk, Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes  

Gang Gang Cafe & Bar

This all-day venue has locals and tourists covered for breakfast, lunch, dinner and good times in between. Gang Gang focuses on community by combining great food and coffee with live music in a laidback, welcoming space.

During the warmer months, you can enjoy your meal outside in the garden, but the cafe inside is just as cosy come winter, with a menu highlighting fresh, local produce. 

If your lunch runs long enough, you may want to order another bottle and settle in for an evening of live music, with a lineup of talent that makes Gang Gang so much more than your regular cafe!

Shop 4/2 Frencham Place, Downer

Verity Lane Market

Perfect for a casual lunch (or a fun date night) in Canberra, Verity Lane Market is a buzzing food hole 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

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

Bad Bunny

Neon signs, bold artwork and splashes of blue, red and pink welcome you into Bad Bunny, known for their seriously good sandwiches and all-day brunch menu.

As much about the funky decor as the loaded sandos, Bad Bunny is the place to go for a fun feed in Canberra. The sandwiches are fresh and flavourful, with options for meat lovers, vegetarians and vegans.

The lunch menu is not for the faint-hearted, with plates loaded with chicken schnitzel and chips, chicken pita wraps, pork belly salads or homemade fish and chips. 

4a/21 Genge Street, 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 - their ramen is spectacular.

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

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.