Top restaurants, shops, cafes and attractions near Deco Hotel Canberra
Perfectly positioned on the doorstep of Braddon, Deco Hotel is located close to the best shopping, dining and entertainment precincts, as well as major national attractions.
To help you make the most of your visit to Canberra, we’ve put together a list of the best things to see, shop, eat and do near Deco Hotel. Read on to find out more!
Eat & Drink
Restaurant Two14 at Deco Hotel
For an incredible dining experience, you need not look any further than Restaurant Two14, Deco Hotel's stylish onsite restaurant. Designed for sharing, the solo traveller, or a relaxed dinner with friends or colleagues, Restaurant Two14’s menu celebrates hearty Italian influences and Australian cuisine with a contemporary twist.
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner 7 days a week, patrons can enjoy small, medium and large share plates, along with an elegant bar menu with salted and cured meats and cheese options.
Tuck into the pappardelle with wild mushrooms, grilled marinated lamb spiedini skewers, Bresaola with truffle pecorino and more culinary delights. You’ll also find modern Australian favourites with an Italian twist, such as Parmesan-crusted chicken schnitzel and succulent beef burgers with provolone and pepperonata.
Located onsite at Deco Hotel, 214 Northbourne Ave, Braddon
Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. 24 Hour room service also available
More info at decohotel.com.au/dine
EightySix Restaurant
Images via EightySix Restaurant
Experience pure indulgence and treat yourself to eightysix’s dinner and dessert menu. A stalwart to Canberra’s hippest dining scene, eightysix is set up with cosy booths, chic black walls - making it ideal for an intimate dining experience with friends and family.
A must-try is their banoffee pie and signature caramel popcorn sundae for the perfect end to your meal. Drinks include a punchy mezcal and jalapeño Margarita, hoppy local Bentspoke IPA, and elegant biodynamic wines from Sicily. This spot is always bustling so be sure to book before heading out.
Located at Lonsdale St & Eloura Street, Braddon
Open Tuesday to Thursday from 6pm to 9pm; Fridays from 6pm to 10pm and weekends from 9am to 2pm and 6pm to 9pm.
More info at www.eightysix.com.au
BentSpoke Brewing Co.
Image via BentSpoke Brewing Co.
Whether you’re a seasoned beer swiller or not, BentSpoke Brewing Co. is a great addition to your itinerary. Located just a short 15-minute walk or a 3-minute drive from Deco Hotel, the brew pub features 18 varieties of beer and cider, all brewed on premise by their award-winning head brewer, Richard Watkins.
Try the Crankshaft, a medium-bodied IPA with a solid malt finish. Its full flavours made it the highest ranked IPA in the GABS Hottest 100 Aussie Craft Beers Poll for 2018, for the second year in a row!
Their food menu is crafted to perfectly match their beers so be sure to grab a bite with your pint.
Located at 48/38 Mort Street, Braddon
Open daily from 11am to 12am
More info at www.bentspokebrewing.com.au
Black Fire Restaurant
Images via Blackfire
When you hear that their executive chef has worked in two Michelin starred restaurants, you know you’ll be in for a treat. Located on Mort Street, Black Fire Restaurant’s foundational ethos is Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine made with locally sourced and mostly organic produce.
Their extensive menu highlights include a succulent angus beef, wagyu skirt steak, suckling lamb and pig portions all grilled or roasted to perfection. If you’re dining with a group, they’ve got you covered with two group lunch menus and a dinner group menu set to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Located at 48/38 Mort Street, Braddon
Open for Mon to Sun for lunch from 12pm to 2.30pm and dinner from 6pm to late
More info at www.blackfirecanberra.com.au
Lazy Su
Images via Lazy Su
Casual, cheeky, with an extra pinch of fun, Lazy Su features a perfectly executed mash up of Korean, Japanese and American cuisines. Think sushi tacos, jackfruit bulgogi bao, wagyu cheesesteak spring roll, and buttermilk fried chicken ramen.
With a retro-chic fit out, Tetris lightboxes detailing the spirits list and a wall of lucky cats - Lazy Su has been a local spot for tasty eats and Instagram-worthy shots.
The restaurant also offers a banquet, with either seven or eight of their best dishes from just $49pp. You can also choose from their extensive list of mouthwatering food options.
Located at 1/9 Lonsdale St, Braddon
Open for Lunch Tues to Sun from 12pm to 3pm; and dinner everyday from 5pm to 10pm
More info at www.lazy-su.com.au
Grease Monkey
Images via Grease Monkey
Grease Monkey can be summed up in three simple words- burgers, beers, and shakes. Free from frills, this Bradon favourite offers generous and unpretentious comfort food in a lively, open-air setting.
Try the Pitt Stop - slow-cooked BBQ pork brisket with apple cider slaw and habanero mayo. For the veggos, the Nimbin - crumbed portobello mushroom patty with Greasy’s special sauce - is the way to go.
They also have happy hours from 4pm - 6pm and live DJs on deck Fridays and Saturday nights so you can dance your way into the weekend.
Located at 19 Lonsdale Street, Braddon
Open daily from 11am to late
More info at www.greasys.com.au
Marble & Grain
Located on the ground floor of the Avenue Hotel, Marble & Grain is a European steakhouse inspired restaurant with a true paddock to plate mentality. With shared options such as the slow cooked 1.2kg locally sourced lamb shoulder, the Marble & Grain ‘butchers board’ with venison sausages, lamb ribs, steak, bone marrow, onion rings and more, you can’t go wrong.
Or, if you’re not the sharing type, with so many delicious options for main course including five hour braised lamb cheeks and seafood bouillabaisse, you’re bound to find something you’ll love. In saying this, you might find it a little difficult to look past the steak options… with six choices, from a 220g wagyu sirloin, to a 400g locally sourced rib eye, all served with bone marrow, red wine jus and duck fat potatoes. Drool.
Pop past at lunch and grab a bite to eat from the $15 lunch specials menu, including dishes like slowly braised local lamb with couscous and herb salsa, and fish and chips with fennel slaw.
Located at 25 Mort Street, Braddon
Open Monday to Friday from 6:30am til late; Sat, Sun & Holidays from 7:00am til late
More info at www.marbleandgrain.com.au
Les Bistronomes
Images via Les Bistronomes | Good Food Australia
Les Bistronomes offers French classics in a bistro-style venue - think escargot, creme brulee, chocolate souffle, and duck a l’orange. Yet another Braddon restaurant with a head chef coming from two Michelin star restaurants, you can expect immaculately plated dishes expertly made with impeccable technique and a genuine understanding of food.
To start, indulge in their curated amuse bouche selection which includes garlic snails, fried whitebait, pork rillettes, duck liver parfait, oysters and goat cheese Boursin.
Their exquisite main menu includes beef bourguignon, classic French bouillabaisse and lemon sole Meunière to name a few, along with a daily specials board. To elevate your dining experience, their resident professional French master sommelier will expertly match your meals with one of their top drops.
Located on the Corner of Elouera & Mort Street, Braddon
Open Tuesdays to Saturdays for Lunch from 12pm to 2pm; Dinner from 6pm to 9pm
More info at www.lesbistronomes.net
Gather Cafe
Images via Gather Cafe | Out in Canberra
A standout in Braddon’s flourishing cafe scene is Gather, a go-to brunch spot for many locals. Their unique menu is made to celebrate and support local farmers and produce. Whether you're an Instagram foodie, health-conscious, or a fussy eater, you are sure to find something to satisfy your cravings.
We highly recommend the Ricotta Hot Cakes with lemon curd, coconut white chocolate mousse, fresh fruits, passion fruit cheesecake ice cream and blueberry maple syrup. Another must-try is their Wild Mushroom Crepes, made with Gooda creek mushrooms, poached eggs, smoked honey and harissa yoghurt.
The intimate venue is decorated with pink walls, lots of indoor plants and Scandi-chic finishes. Its relaxed vibe and friendly service make it a top spot to zone out and get some work done, chill out with a book or catch up with some friends.
Located at 4/24 Mort Street, Braddon
Open Monday to Friday from 6am to 3.45pm; Sat from 7am to 3.45pm and Sun from 7.30am to 3.45pm
More info at www.cafegather.com.au
See & Do
National Gallery of Australia
Image credits: Courtesy of NGA - Claude Monet, Impression, sunrise [Impression, soleil levant] 1872 Musée Marmottan Monet, Paris; Claude Monet, Les Tuileries 1876, Musée Marmottan Monet, Paris
A national institution for visual arts, The National Gallery of Australia is one not to be missed when visiting Canberra! The gallery holds both international and national art collections, including the largest display of Australian Indigenous art in the world.
Located at The National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place West, Parkes
Open daily from 10 am to 5 pm
More info at www.nga.gov.au
Australian War Memorial
Images via Visit Canberra
Canberra is synonymous with the Australian War Memorial, an awe-inspiring recollection of the incredible people who have lost their lives fighting for their country around the world. Situated at the foot of Mt Ainslie, this award-winning Memorial combines a shrine, a world-class museum, and an extensive archive.
In 1948, Charles Bean summed up the memorial's mission and purpose: Here is their spirit, in the heart of the land they loved; and here we guard the record which they themselves made.
It is a definite must-do for those visiting Canberra, not only for it’s enriching history but also for its stunning architecture and amazing views.
Spend the day indoors and discover exhibits dedicated to WWI, WWII and conflicts from 1945 to the present day. You’ll also find a Byzantine-influenced Hall of Memory where the Tomb of the Unknown Australian Soldier lies.
Located at Treloar Crescent, Campbell
Open daily from 10 am - 5pm
More info at www.awm.gov.au
Australian National Botanic Gardens
Images via Visit Canberra | Sunset Cinema
Located just minutes from the Canberra CBD, the Australian National Botanic Gardens offer a welcome escape from the bustling city and a relaxing way to reconnect with nature. Stroll through the rainforest gully, rock gardens and stunning bushland nature trail to discover its spectacular collection of Australian native plants. The gardens draw crowds all year round with informative guided nature and talks, school holiday programs, new exhibitions, and even a day spa!
For the perfect picnic spot, set up shop under the shady eucalypt trees at the grassy Eucalypt Lawn. In the summer months, the lawn plays host to the Sunset Cinema, featuring the latest movie releases, blockbuster hits and family-friendly favourites.
Located at Clunies Ross Street, Acton
Open daily from 9 am - 5 pm
More info at www.anbg.gov.au
Telstra Tower
Images via Visit Canberra
Situated on top of Black Mountains peak, Telstra Tower boasts uninterrupted views of the CBD and its surrounds. This iconic spot also has some of the most amazing views of the city at night so be sure to catch the sunset and watch the city lights come to life.
Afterwards, you can warm up with a cuppa at the Telstra Tower Cafe while peering over the Parliamentary Triangle, Lake Burley Griffin, and the National Museum. The Tower also houses the Heritage Telstra Centenary Exhibition. The collection includes devices that played a role in important moments in Australian history.
Located at 100 Black Mountain Dr, Acton
Open daily from 9 am - 10 pm
More info at www.telstratower.com.au
The National Museum of Australia
Images via Visit Canberra | NMA
Discover the country’s rich and colourful history at The National Museum of Australia where you’ll find the most comprehensive yet contemporarily curated collection of artefacts, displays, biographies and interactive exhibitions.
Situated on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, the National Museum of Australia places emphasis on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and histories, Australian history and society since 1788, and showcasing the diverse and interesting stories of Australia and the people who have made it what it is today.
Join in on a guided tour or download The National Museum of Australia app to explore the museum in your own leisure. For the little ones, the Kspace AR Trail features augmented reality technology and encourages kids to search the museum to find characters from the Kspace games.
Located at Lawson Crescent, Acton Peninsula, Acton
Open daily from 9am to 5pm
More info at www.nma.gov.au
Shopping
Canberra Centre
Images via Visit Canberra
Located just a 4-minute tram ride away is the Canberra Centre, the city’s largest shopping centre boasting an outstanding portfolio of fashion labels, award-winning restaurants and an amazing array of things to do.
For the ultimate retail therapy, the shopping centre houses the likes of David Jones, Myer, Hugo Boss, Oroton, Sass and Bide, Swarovski and many more well-loved brands. Beauty lovers can find Mecca Maxima, Inglot, Lush, Aveda, Napoleon Perdis and L'occitane stores.
Whether you're after breakfast, a leisurely lunch, dinner, takeaway convenience or coffee and a treat, Canberra Centre is the ultimate dining destination. With sidewalk cafes and exceptional restaurants such as RAKU and Vapiano, as well as two impressive food courts - there's something for everyone.
Canberra Centre also houses the Capital’s largest movie house, Dendy Cinema which showcases the latest releases, family favourites and blockbuster hits. Looking for dinner and a movie? Head to their Premium Lounge where you can unwind with a glass of wine or a pint of brew before the movie. Then sit back and relax in the theatre's luxurious reclining chair while indulging on the in-cinema catering menu.
Located at 148 Bunda St, Canberra
Open Mon to Thurs from 9am - 5.30pm; Friday from 9am - 9pm;
Saturday from 9am - 5pm and Sunday from 10am - 4pm
No Name Lane
Images via Swell Design Group | Doughnut Department - Jack Mohr
Just a short walk from the Canberra Centre you’ll find No Name Lane - the perfect place to recharge after a busy day of retail therapy or enjoy some quality time with friends over coffee.
Settle down at Doughnut Department while nibbling on one of their infamous sweet treats - we recommend the Dulce de Leche & Toasted Almonds - just divine! Not much of a sweet tooth? They’ve also got your brunch favourites from cheese toasties, chorizo and egg rolls, avocado on toast and more.
And if you are after something a bit more substantial refuel at Terra, a canteen-style food destination dishing up fresh produce, straight-off-the-spit smoked and charcoal meats, gourmet lunch rolls and freshly squeezed juices.
For your pre-shopping brekky fix, The Goods live up to its name. You’ll find hearty breakfast bowls, extra thick cut toast with your choice of toppings, gluten-free and vegan salads with only the freshest produce, and of course, freshly brewed single-origin coffee.
Located at No Name Lane, Canberra
Open 24 Hours - Various shops have different hours of operation.
Lonsdale Street Braddon Shopping Precinct
Images via Pink Ink | Moxom + Whitney Florist | Visit Canberra
Located just a short walk from the city centre, Braddon is one of Canberra’s trendiest suburbs. Lonsdale Street is bursting at the seams with amazing shopping - from original designer labels, stylish Australian fashions, speciality handcrafted gifts and homewares stores, and unique artisan finds.
To top it off, it’s only a 16-minute walk or a few minutes on the Lightrail from Deco Hotel! Check out some of our favourite spots below:
PINK INK
Pop over to Pink Ink where you’ll find the perfect blend of the worlds of art and design. Walls feature fashion illustrations and their racks showcase only the latest trends to offer a truly one of a kind retail experience. Their curated collection feature local and international designers such as Max Mara, Karen Walker, Vivienne Westwood and Ellery.
Fancy something floral? Moxom and Whitney boast some of the most beautiful floral arrangements to suit any occasion. If you're not much of a flower fiend, they also create custom terrariums complete with miniature figurines.
For the ultimate girls day out, head to Saloon, Canberra’s first blow dry bar. The winning combination of hair, beauty and drinks makes them your one-stop shop for everything you need before heading for a night out. You can book in for makeup applications or lessons, hair up-dos and treatments, brow waxing, tints and tattooing, lash lifts, and spray tans. And their bar menu celebrates amazing local wines, beers and ciders - plus mimosas for morning appointments. Yes please!
Images via Lellow Kids| Bisonhome | Bitten Goodfoods
LELLOW KIDS
There’s something for everyone in the Braddon shopping precinct, even the kids! Look no further than Lellow Kids, a boutique stocking clothing, shoes, toys and gifts for ages 0-14. Owned by a local Canberra mum, the boutique places focus on providing locals with high-quality children's wear that is both fashionable and functional. Step inside and you’ll find unique french toys, shoes from brands such as Mini Melissa and Bergstein and clothing from Desigual, Fred Bare and more!
HANDSOME PRETTY
Located in the Ori building on Lonsdale Street, Handsome Pretty stocks a wide range of stunning, unique homewares, gifts and jewellery. With worldly influences, brave colours and inspiring designs, this really is a store like no other in Canberra. They’ve got everything from large scale prints, scarves, candles and more! Try to leave the store empty handed, we dare you!
BISONHOME
Looking to step up your home interior? Bisonhome stocks beautifully crafted stoneware ceramics that are sure to add a Scandi-chic vibe to your kitchen, dining or living room. They’re so good you’ll even find some of the Lonsdale Street cafes and restaurants sporting their goods. The label was founded by Brian Tunks whose love of Asian ceramics and Scandinavian upbringing resulted in the signature Bison design - a pared-back aesthetic with simple lines and pure colours.
THE HIVE
The Hive is the perfect place to shop for something truly one-of-a-kind. From furniture to fashion, ceramics, designer jewellery and stylish homewares, you are sure to find something to suit your fancy. To celebrate local talent, The Hive also has an intimate gallery is located where new and emerging artists hold regular exhibitions.
BITTEN GOODFOODS
To cap off your Lonsdale Street shopping day, refuel at Bitten Goodfoods where you’ll find wholesome meals and goodies that are good for your gut and your soul. Think kombucha on tap, raw cakes and slices, and fresh salad bowl specials. Best of all, they also have a wholefoods supermarket-style section where you can find everything you need for the week! Their fit-out is simple, chic, filled to the brim with greenery, and 100% insta-worthy.
