The days are finally getting longer and the evenings are getting warmer! At this time of year, I find myself wanting to spend my evenings with friends in the sunshine. Preferably with a beverage in hand. So we’ve done a lot of serious research (it’s a hard life – you’re welcome) to bring you our top picks for where to enjoy some summer drinks in Canberra.
Capital Brewing Co – Building 3/1 Dairy Rd, Fyshwick
When Capital Brewing Co decided to open an onsite bar at their Fyshwick brewery, I was initially a little skeptical. Would anyone drive that far for a craft beer? Yes, I know it’s not that far. But Fyshwick seems like the end of the world for an inner northerner like me! As it turns out, people will definitiely make the trip to Fyshwick for a cold brew from Capital. The Dairy Road precinct is now a hub of artisan makers and small shopfronts with Capital at the forefront.
The popularity of climbing gym BlocHaus and the proximity to the bike paths around the East Basin of the lake, have made this once industrial area a popular place to be. With the added incentive of the Brodburger food truck pumping out their much loved burgers, Capital has everything you need for an afternoon session in the sun. Their big outdoor space is a great place to relax with friends or to let the kids run around.
Bookplate – National Library of Australia, 25 Parkes Pl W, Parkes
If you want to have drinks with a view in the parliamentary triangle, check out Ex Libris at the National Library of Australia. Bookplate‘s outdoor seating area has beautiful views over the lake and towards Black Mountain. Keep an eye on the opening times though, the early closing times have caught me out on more than one occasion. It’s hard to beat for lunch or an afternoon drink.
Check out the exhibitions while you’re there too. Cook and the Pacific and Beauty Rich and Rare are currently on until Sunday 10th February, and they’re free. Eat Canberra was recently invited to an after-hours screening of both exhibitions, followed by a sneaky sparkling on the first-floor balcony that’s usually closed to the public. They’re worth checking out!
The Old Canberra Inn – 195 Mouat St, Lyneham
As a proud resident of the Inner North, I have to own up to some serious bias. The Old Canberra Inn (or OCI as we lentil belters affectionately refer to it) is walking distance from my house so I’d consider myself a regular now. Once a dodgy looking place, the OCI has transformed this heritage building into a popular venue over the years. You’ll find craft beers, record fairs and live music at the OCI.
There are two separate courtyards at the back, one is draped with fairy lights and if you visit at the right time of year you’ll also find wisteria. There are also plenty of benches and tables under big umbrellas at the front. There’s something happening every night at OCI, including trivia, DJs, board games or jazz jams. Happy hour is from 4-6pm during the week with $5 schooners of beer (including Capital Trail Pale Ale) and discounts on plates of chicken wings. How does 1/2 kg of chicken wings for $7 sound? They’re so tasty with a few beers! The kegs of beer are constantly changing so you’ll have the chance to try heaps of craft brews from across Australia. The staff really know their stuff and are always happy to give you a taste to find the beer you like best.
The Rose Cottage – Isabella Dr, Gilmore
When I get on a roll about the merits of my local drinking hole, my Southside friends are always quick to recommend the Rose Cottage. I’ve driven past the Rose Cottage dozens of times on my way to and from the snow, or the coast, but I’ve never been inside for a drink. I’ve even seen some photos of weddings and receptions there and the beer gardens are beautiful. I don’t often end up that far South, but next time I do, the beer gardens at the Rose Cottage will be on the top of my list for a drink in the sunshine.
Walt & Burley – 70/17 Eastlake Parade, Kingston
Walt & Burley is a Kingston Foreshore favourite, and for good reason. They’ve got lovely views over the lake and a drinks list with a local focus. The food menu is not too shabby either. It’s pub food but with class. You definitely pay a premium for the location and the views so if you’re low on cash, I recommend a walk to The Dock at the other end of the foreshore. The sports bar atmosphere is always lively and there are plenty of great food and drink deals during the week. The views aren’t quite so spectacular, but it’s often packed on weekends and game nights. The atmosphere can’t be beat if you like a lively crowd.
The Howling Moon – Canberra Rex Hotel, 150 Northbourne Ave, Braddon
Have you been to Canberra’s coolest rooftop bar? The Howling Moon is open from Wednesday to Sunday on the rooftop of the Rex Hotel in Braddon. Items on the menu are a fun nod to the wolf theme. Anyone fancy a ‘san choy bite’ or a ‘barking bread board’? I am very keen to check out their Wednesday evening happy hour from 5-7pm. It includes $5 house wine/beer, $12 classic cocktails and some cheap eats. There are discounts on full moon evenings too, so stay up to date with your lunar calendar! The space is light and airy, and best of all, fully enclosed and climate controlled so you can stay nice and cool but still enjoy the sun.
Agostinis – East Hotel, 69 Canberra Ave, Griffith
The enclosed terrace at Agostinis is also worth checking out. It’s a gorgeous space filled with plants and lots of natural light. Match that with some delicious antipasti or pizza and you won’t be disappointed. Bellissimo!
Pop up bars
Have you heard about some of the pop up bars in Canberra? Bars are popping up in outdoor locations around Canberra. So you can enjoy a drink or two in places that you usually wouldn’t. Have some fun and go on a little adventure to one of the locations where you will find The Pop Inn and House of Bubbles. Locations include Haig Park, Eastlake Parade, The Rose Gardens, Bowen Park and Regatta Point. Check for upcoming locations and dates on the House of Bubbles Facebook page and The Pop Inn’s website.
What’s your favourite spot for a summertime drink? Leave a comment and let us know!
This article is by Lucy Ridge with contributions from Amelia Bidgood.
About the author:
Lucy Ridge is a chef, a writer, and a local Canberran. She writes about food, travel and sustainability on her blog at Eat Your Vegetables.
All photos by Amelia Bidgood unless stated otherwise.
