We invite you to dive into this guide and discover the fantastic food experiences and dining destinations our local advertisers are serving up across Canberra in 2025 and beyond.
Kivotos: A taste of Greece, right here in Canberra
Tucked away in Braddon, Kivotos Wine Bar is not simply a place to eat — it’s an invitation to experience the soul of Greece. Every plate, every glass, every detail is a tribute to heritage, reimagined with a modern sensibility.
“Kivotos means ‘ark’ in Greek,” says co-owner and executive chef George Giannoulis, “and for us, it’s about preserving something sacred — the flavours, traditions, and spirit of Greek hospitality.”
From the moment you step inside, you’re transported. The space is a serene blend of textured stone, olive-green accents, and warm lighting. “We wanted a place that feels like a modern Aegean home,” George explains. “Whether you’re sharing a long lunch or enjoying an intimate dinner, the energy flows naturally.”
The menu reflects that same intention: rooted in memory, elevated in execution. Seasonal dishes draw inspiration from Greece’s villages and islands, crafted with the best of local Australian produce. Highlights include the playful yet nostalgic moussaka ‘paddle pop’, slow-braised lamb shoulder kleftiko-style, and street-inspired seafood like charred Fremantle octopus and King Prawn saganaki.
But Kivotos isn’t just about food — it’s about celebration. And at the heart of that is the drink offering, carefully curated by George’s business partner, Anita Ling. “Anita has shaped our wine and spirit list to complement every dish and bring out the best of Greek viticulture,” he says. The list features elegant Assyrtiko from Santorini, bold Xinomavro from Naoussa, and a range of Greek liquors including Mastiha and aged Metaxa. “Guests are often surprised — and delighted — by the complexity of Greek wines and liquors. It’s part of the discovery here.”
The mezedes menu, ideal for wine bar-style grazing, is constantly refreshed — from delicate seafood bites to house-marinated vegetables and warm filo treats. It’s a table made for clinking glasses, sharing stories, and feeling connected.
“And don’t leave without dessert,” George adds with a smile. “Our baklava cheesecake with pistachio ice cream is always a favourite.”
Named a finalist in the 2025 ACT Restaurant & Catering Hostplus Awards for Excellence, Kivotos continues to carve a special place in Canberra’s dining landscape.
So come for the wine, stay for the food — and return for the feeling. At Kivotos, Greece isn’t far away. It’s just at your table.
- 33 Mort St, Braddon
- T: 0430 363 683
- W: kivotoswinebar.com.au
- Instagram: @kivotos.cbr
Le Monsoon: A South Indian culinary journey in Phillip
For many South Indians living in Australia, food is more than just a meal. It’s a nourishing memory of home. The aroma of freshly ground spices, the crackle of curry leaves in coconut oil, and the comfort of warm appams served with creamy stew are those comfort moments etched into our childhood during family gatherings and festive mornings.
And as one of Canberra’s culinary gems specialising in South Indian cuisine, Le Monsoon doesn’t just preserve this tradition, it also celebrates it. Here, memories are brought to life again. This restaurant is an open invitation to reconnect with your roots or discover them for the very first time.
And while the menu stays close to home, the dining experience itself has a modern twist. Le Monsoon offers something unexpected: a glimpse of the future. A robot waitstaff that carries food with a smile programmed in, swerving between tables, and creating moments that delight children, surprise newcomers, and add a playful touch to an otherwise nostalgic experience. It doesn’t replace human connection; it simply adds a futuristic touch.
Yet beyond the novelty, the heart of Le Monsoon remains the same. Warm hospitality, shared meals, and the simple joy of bringing people together over food that feels like home.
For the South Indian community in Canberra, Le Monsoon is a piece of home. For others, it’s a chance to explore Kerala’s rich food and culture, plate by plate.
Come in just as you are. Because at Le Monsoon, you’ll always find something that feels like home.
- G02/45 Furzer St, Phillip
- T: 0461 338 414
- W: lemonsoon.au
- Instagram: @lemonsoon.au
Smoko: Canberra‑style woodfired pizza with heart
They make incredible pizza — and they take their food far, far more seriously than they take themselves. Smoko in Fyshwick isn’t just another pizza joint; it’s a cosy little pizzeria delivering woodfired pizzas made from the heart. Calzone, vegan and gluten‑free options (all crafted in‑house) are on the menu too.
The Smoko team is intent on pioneering what it means to be Canberra‑style woodfired pizza. Almost everything in their store, both tangible and intangible, has been contributed by the local community — and it’s that community they hold dear as they cook. Think restaurant‑quality food with a warm, welcoming vibe.
For Smoko owner Mav, pizza is about interpretation and care. “If you gave the same ingredients to different people, you’d get a different end product. My idea of a perfect pizza is crunchy, soft, crispy and chewy all at once — and after that first bite, you’ve got to smile,” says Mav.
The team have even hosted late‑night “pizza doofs,” flipping pies until sunrise, and they’re planning woodfired pizza lessons so customers can nerd out on the craft. “There’s a natural attraction to woodfired cooking — at one point all our ancestors cooked this way. It’s in our blood.”
At Smoko, the team is like family, the community is central, and the pizza? Simply unforgettable. Come make yourself at home and let them cook you up the most delicious woodfired feed you’ve ever had.
- Open Wed – Sat, 11 – 9pm
- 4/30 Lyell St Fyshwick, 2609
- T: 0430 074 992
- Instagram: @smoko.pizza
The Marion: A dining experience by the lake
At The Marion, dining is more than a meal – it’s an experience. Set on the edge of Lake Burley Griffin, this elegant venue pairs sweeping water views with a menu that celebrates seasonal produce, sustainability and creativity. Whether it’s a refined à la carte lunch during the week or a sophisticated high tea seven days a week, The Marion offers a warm, welcoming space where every dish tells a story.
The menu blends contemporary Australian cuisine with global influences. Highlights include pork belly with crispy crackling and pomme purée, or poached coral trout with lobster pressé, bisque and salmon caviar. For dessert, the warm chocolate mousse with miso caramel, macadamia crunch and pear sorbet is a standout, perfectly matched with a chilled dessert wine.
An extensive wine list has been hand‑selected to complement each dish, with the team happy to guide guests through pairings. Inside, The Marion combines modern elegance with comfort, while the outdoor spaces offer a serene lakeside setting.
Head Chef Matthew Ouwerkerk brings 17 years of experience from Michelin‑starred kitchens in London and top restaurants in Sydney and Melbourne. His passion for local produce and innovative flavour shines through in every plate. The kitchen also creates every item for the venue’s acclaimed high tea in‑house, from scones and savoury pastries to delicate petit cakes, served with one of Asia’s largest ranges of Ronnefeldt teas.
The Marion is named in honour of Marion Mahony, a pioneering architect whose contribution to Canberra’s design has long been overlooked. From its stunning vantage on the lake, The Marion pays tribute to her legacy while offering a dining experience that feels both timeless and contemporary.
Open Monday to Friday for à la carte lunch and seven days for high tea, The Marion is also available for exclusive events. It’s fast becoming a must‑visit destination in Canberra — where history, flavour and hospitality come together beautifully.
- Barrine Drive, Regatta Point, Commonwealth Park, Parkes
- T: 02 7252 7711
- W: themarion.com.au
The story behind Treat Boutique
At just 30 years old, Sabi is a proud mother of three — aged 1, 5 and 7 — and the creative force behind Treat Boutique, a thriving baking business built on passion and perseverance. Behind the beautifully crafted sweets lies a powerful story of resilience, reinvention, and a leap of faith.
Originally from India, Sabi was adopted at age three and raised in a large, loving family as one of 19 siblings. She spent her early career caring for others, first in childcare and later in aged care. “I enjoyed what I did,” she reflects. “But I knew it wasn’t what I wanted to do forever.”
Everything changed in 2017 after the birth of her first child. Sabi suffered multiple seizures and was diagnosed with epilepsy, meaning she couldn’t drive for six months — an incredibly difficult adjustment with a newborn.
Confined mostly to home, she found comfort in baking. “It became a source of peace,” she says. What started as a therapeutic outlet soon blossomed into a true passion. She began experimenting with recipes, watching tutorials, and sharing her creations with friends and family.
After her second child turned one, Sabi faced a decision: stay in a job she didn’t love, or take a chance on her newfound passion. Encouraged by her husband and mother, she launched Treat Boutique.
What began as a modest side hustle, taking small orders for birthdays and events, has now grown into a full-time business. Known for high-quality, handcrafted bakes, Treat Boutique is more than just a bakery, it’s a symbol of Sabi’s journey and strength.
In just 3 years, she has built a loyal following of over 100,000 across Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. Her secret? Staying consistent, building a brand, and connecting authentically with her community. Her content — delicious, personal, and relatable — resonates with followers who admire her creativity and resilience.
One of her biggest hits? A choc-coconut cookie that caused a frenzy online, selling out within 24 hours of launching.
“I never imagined I’d be here, doing something I love every single day,” Sabi says. “But I’m so glad I took the leap.”
Treat Boutique continues to grow, standing as a testament not just to talent, but to the courage it takes to follow your passion, wherever it leads.
- Instagram: @_treatboutique
- Facebook: @Treat Boutique
- TikTok: @_treatboutique
Bold, unique flavours at White Chaco
Tucked away in Canberra’s dining scene, White Chaco is a restaurant that dares to do things differently. Specialising in Japanese and Chinese‑inspired dishes, every plate has its own character, familiar enough to feel comforting, yet creative enough to surprise.
Rather than sticking to the strict rules of tradition, White Chaco offers reimagined favourites that are easy to love. It’s a place where you can enjoy something unexpected without feeling out of your depth.
Drinks are just as carefully considered, with a strong selection of local wines, interesting craft beers and Japanese sake to complement each dish.
The menu is made for sharing with friends or settling in for a flavourful meal. There are different styles of popcorn chicken, inventive bao, hearty ramen and satisfying rice dishes. Must‑tries include the plum and citrus popcorn chicken, Sichuan beef bao, chilli and lime scallop sashimi, Dan Dan ramen and double‑smoked eel rice. Seasonal specials also make regular appearances, such as numbing peanut chicken, porcini ramen and salmon tartare.
For those yet to visit, White Chaco is best summed up as a place where Asian flavours meet creativity and fun. Whether you’re craving bold bites with friends over drinks or a fresh take on classic comfort food, White Chaco is ready to enthral you.
Discover the unexpected at White Chaco, where every dish has a story and every visit feels like something new.
- g10/27 Lonsdale St, Braddon
- T: 0401 509 435
- W: whitechaco.com.au
- Instagram: @w.chaco
