Feeling Fancy? Here are Canberra’s Best Fine Dining Spots

Canberra may be small but it's fine dining scene is nothing short of mighty. Every taste is catered for from modern Australian degustations paired with top-tier wines, to incredible Japanese Omakase experiences. Whether it's a birthday or special occasion, or a 'just because' dinner (any excuse will do!), these fine dining experiences offer much more than food - they serve up an experience you'll never forget. 

Not sure where to start? We’ve put together your ultimate guide to some of the top fine dining restaurants in Canberra for your next fancy night out.

Raku

Raku is easily one of the top Japanese eateries in Canberra, and once you set foot inside, you’ll quickly understand why. The restaurant is uber-chic, with moody lighting, architectural features and intimate booths mixed with seats at the bar, while the food is next level. Expect expertly crafted Japanese classics and a few inventive dishes, along with perfectly paired drinks.

148 Bunda Street, Canberra City

KOTO

For something extra special next time you visit Canberra, make a reservation at KOTO. Fusing traditional Japanese architecture and a sumptuous menu based on Kaiseki philosophy, a meal here is one that will stand out. Enter through the restaurant’s impeccably kept Zen Garden before indulging in a seasonal set menu. An incredible sake selection rounds out the offering.  

1 King George Terrace, Parkes

Pilot

Stepping into Pilot is like entering someone’s (very beautiful) home. As soon as you’re greeted by the maître d', you know you’re in for something special. The tasting menu rotates daily but you can always guarantee creative dishes that surprise and delight, paired with stellar wines from around Australia. For something a little lighter, visit Pilot on a Friday or Sunday for a four-course lunch.

1 Wakefield Gardens, Ainslie

Mu Omakase 

The Mu Omakase experience takes place seated at the counter whilst chefs serve up a very tasty degustation menu based on whatever’s freshest and in season that day. The sake menu is also fantastic and the interior is intimate and moody. 

1 Constitution Avenue, Canberra City 

OTIS Dining Hall

If you like your fine dining on the casual side, you’re bound to love OTIS Dining Hall, a stellar eatery that does elevated versions of classic dishes. You can choose from the chef’s degustation menu and the three-course à la carte menu, both of which rotate seasonally and incorporate lots of locally produced ingredients. Don’t forget to order a glass of local wine while you’re at it.

29 Jardine Street, Kingston

Louis 

Expect classic European dishes paired with exquisite cocktails and a backdrop of luxe interiors at Louis - everything you want from a fancy night out. We're talking a custom-built mosaic bar, marble, leather, pendant lighting and Brentwood chairs. 

As for food, you're in for a treat. Two-hatted chef Ben Willis has curated a seasonal menu inspired by Provence and the French Riveria. Think John Dory with braised beans and chorizo, Fougasse and tapenade, as well as Potato and leek Pithivier sublimed by salsa verde.

18 National Circuit, Canberra 

Corella

Located on Canberra’s best foodie strip – Lonsdale Street in Braddon – Corella does modern Australian food using a host of native ingredients: think finger lime, macadamia, rosella, saltbush and bush tomato, among many others. Each dish is as exceptional as the last, and the drinks are just as special. Incorporating the same native flavours, make sure to order at least a couple of cocktails from the extensive drinks menu.

14 Lonsdale Street, Braddon

Courgette

With one Chef Hat to its name, it’s no wonder Courgette offers some of the best fine dining Canberra has ever seen. The menu is filled with tasty dishes that incorporate French techniques and global flavours, the interior is warm and sophisticated, and the choice of wines is incredibly extensive. You can visit Courgette for a prix fixe lunch or dinner, or go all out and order a luxe five-course degustation.

54 Marcus Clarke Street, Canberra

If you loved our wrap of the best fine dining in Canberra and you’re after more great spots for date night, check out our guide to the most romantic restaurants in Canberra. Prefer more casual fare? Try our favourite burger joints in Canberra.