Canberra’s craft beer scene is set for a new addition, with Capital Brewing Co. opening its new venue, Lager House, this Friday 27 March.
Located within East Traders Hall in Campbell, the purpose-built venue marks the brewery’s move further into full-service hospitality. Focused on the art of lager, Lager House combines precision brewing with elevated yet approachable food in a space designed to feel instantly familiar.
Working alongside Capezio Copeland, the venue draws inspiration from the classic Australian neighbourhood pub, reimagined through a modern brewery lens.
“The idea was to create a space that feels both familiar and considered,” said Laurence Kain, Managing Director of Capital Brewing Co.
“The U-shaped bar sits right at the centre of the room, encouraging people to perch, settle in and connect with the room’s energy, whether they’re here for a quick beer or staying for the night.”
At the heart of the venue is a strong connection between brewing, cooking and the overall guest experience, with an open kitchen, wood-fired grill and three 1500L tanks pouring fresh seasonal lagers.
Locally sourced materials also play a key role in shaping the space, with salvaged Australian hardwoods from Canberra business Thor’s Hammer adding warmth and texture.
“It was important that the venue felt grounded from day one,” Kain said.
“Using recycled local materials adds a lived-in quality, while the precision of our Czech side-pour taps ensures the beer experience is world-class.”
The kitchen is led by Head Chef Paul Starley, with a menu designed to reflect how people eat in a brewery setting.
“The Lager House menu is centred around the wood-fired grill, generous, and absolutely not shy about flavour,” Starly said.
“The inspiration came from how people actually eat in a brewery. Some want a feast, some want a snack, and some just want something to keep them upright between pints.”
Standout dishes include a crispy pork knuckle with smoky crackling and a prawn roll offering a lighter option.
“The crispy pork knuckle is the show-off. It’s smoky, crackly, and impossible to eat quietly,” Starly said.
“The prawn roll is the crowd-pleaser. Bright, fresh, and gone in about three bites if you’re not paying attention.”
A weekly program will also run alongside the core offering, including a $19 schnitty night on Mondays, Wednesday trivia and weekday express lunch options.
“Lager House should feel like the place you accidentally stay longer than planned. Good food, good beer, good company,” Kain said.
Lager House opens from 3pm on Friday 27 March at East Traders Hall, 62 Constitution Avenue, Campbell.
Bookings are available via capitalbrewing.co/pages/lagerhouse, with free parking in the basement off Wendourie Drive. You can follow @lagerhouse.cbr on Instagram to see more.
