Sandwiched between the flashier scenes of Sydney and Melbourne, Canberra is increasingly punching above its weight when it comes to gourmet dining and innovative cuisine.

The city boasts an impressive array of eateries, with some shining a tad brighter than the rest. Dive into a culinary journey as we explore three of the highest-rated restaurants in Canberra.

Pilot.

Located in the suburb of Ainslie, Pilot. has emerged as a hotspot for those looking to indulge in a refined dining experience. With its simple yet intriguing menu, it offers dishes that are both visually appealing and delicious.

With just 30 seats available the interior exudes minimalist charm. The limited numbers serve to creating a relaxed and intimate environment.

With an emphasis on seasonal and local produce, the 7-course degustation menu offers a curated experience. Perfect for one-off visits, return visitors will enjoy a regular rotation of dishes as seasons shift. The restaurant does not offer a la carte options.

A visit to Pilot. would be incomplete without sampling their renowned wine list.

Monster Kitchen and Bar

Housed in the equally stylish Ovolo Nishi (formerly Hotel Hotel) in NewActon, Monster Kitchen and Bar is a hub of culinary innovation. Their unique approach to vegetarian dishes has made them a Darling of Canberra’s dining scene.

A blend of modern aesthetics with hints of rustic charm offers a playful but assured dining experience.

Sharing is the theme here, with dishes like the Jerusalem artichoke being a favourite. For a sweet finish, the reinvented pavlova is a twist on the traditional dish.

When in Rome…it’s highly recommended you dive into Monster’s inventive cocktail list. the ‘Monster Mash’ is a refreshing choice that complements many of their dishes.

Rebel Rebel

A relative newcomer to Canberra’s dining scene, Rebel Rebel has already made significant waves with its commitment to sustainability and flavour-packed dishes.

Modern, vibrant, and slightly edgy, the interiors reflect the restaurant’s rebellious spirit. An assembly of reclaimed timber is draped across the roof, providing a dramatic backdrop to your meal.

With a menu that changes daily based on available produce, it’s hard to pinpoint a single dish. However, their seafood offerings, when available, are reliably sublime.

Seek the advice of staff for wine pairings. They know their stuff and their advice will often shine a spotlight on local vineyards and organic choices.