If you’re like my partner and me and try to go on a nice date at least once a week, you know how challenging it can be to come up with date ideas consistently. Nothing kills the vibe like struggling to find something to do. Even though Canberra has more restaurants per capita than any other Australian city, sometimes you just want to do something a little different! Don’t worry – after plenty of research, we’ve got you covered. We hope this list can help you out on your next date night. We’ve categorised it by types of activities, so feel free to skip ahead to what you and your partner most enjoy:
- Cosy Restaurants for Casual Dining
- Upscale restaurants for a fine dining experience
- Out-of-the-box activities
- Canberra’s best bars for a boozy date
- Outdoor experiences
We’ll be adding to this list as new venues and experiences pop up in Canberra, so be sure to bookmark this article for next time you’re stuck on date night!
Spots For a Romantic Dinner Date
Alright, let’s get the classic option out of the way. Sometimes, you just can’t go wrong with a dinner date – sitting across from each other and enjoying a meal is one of the most romantic things you can do! Especially for a special occasion, like a birthday or anniversary. We’re lucky that Canberra is home to so many fantastic places to eat, with a thriving foodie culture and new restaurants popping up all the time. We’ll mention some hidden gems and newer restaurants, so you can mix it up a little.
Casual Dining
These restaurants are perfect for a romantic date night with no dress code or hefty bill involved.
Oh No! in Manuka
Oh No! on Flinders Way in Manuka opened in August 2023, and to great acclaim so far. It’s a more up-scale and formal version of its sister establishment, The Pedlar in Campbell, while still keeping things fun and relaxed. The décor is modern, with quirky touches and playful art pieces. What really makes Oh No! stand out is the menu, expertly put together by Head Chef Hoa Tran, offering modern Pan-Asian fusion and unique, playful dishes you won’t find anywhere else. While the menu changes every season, much like The Pedlar, current crowd favourites are the prawn doughnuts and duck curry.
Oh No! is a two-level venue designed to suit whatever your night calls for. Downstairs, you’ll find a dining area where the décor blends traditional Asian styles with modern luxurious touches, perfect for a relaxed but refined date. Upstairs, there’s a different vibe with a cosy cocktail bar that’s great for pre-dinner drinks or just to hang out. This area is set up for casual sipping and chatting, complemented by house DJs that keep the mood lively. The perfect place to break the ice on a Friday night first date if you ask me!
Bada Bing Dining Club in Civic
Bada Bing Dining Club on Alinga Street in Civic is another newer restaurant, having only opened in December 2023. This spot offers a modern twist on old-school Italian with a welcoming setting and fantastic service. You can enjoy dishes like crispy supplì filled with mozzarella, perfect for starting your meal, and main courses like homemade eggplant and ricotta ravioli. The restaurant’s design, with its retro Italian wallpaper and comfortable booth seating, is romantic and cosy.
Even though it only opened 8 months ago, this is my favourite restaurant for dates, no questions asked. I had a lovely anniversary dinner there that quickly won me over. I felt like the staff made every effort to make it a romantic evening for me and my partner, including moving us to a quieter table with a more intimate setting and serving up complimentary champagne. The meal definitely didn’t break the bank, either. Read my full Bada Bing review to find out why Bada Bing enamoured me so much.
Rosa’s at The Lawns – Old Parliament House
Rosa’s at The Lawns is a fresh addition to Canberra’s dining scene, and it couldn’t have a better location: The National Triangle, near the scenic National Rose Gardens. It’s a casual day-to-night spot that’s great for a laid-back date. The versatile menu starts with morning coffees and pastries and shifts to include panini and pizzas by evening. They also serve a variety of cocktails, perfect for an evening out. I can’t wait to sit there with an Aperol Spritz in hand with my partner when the weather warms up.
The best part is its location. You can enjoy your meal outdoors with views of the gardens, making it a perfect spot to relax and chat with your date. Rosa’s is the kind of place where you can have a laid-back time with good food in a beautiful setting. This restaurant is part of a new development where the old Lobby restaurant used to be, and it’s not alone; there are two other new eateries next door: Ballyhoo and Koto.
If the date goes well, you’ll be pleased to know Rosa’s makes the most of its beautiful and historical setting to host weddings 😉
Fine Dining Experiences
If you’re in the mood to dress up and treat yourself to a delicious meal, the next section is for you. Here are some of Canberra’s newest and nicest restaurants, where the settings are elegant, and the meals are sure to impress – perfect for those extra special dates. Yet again, we’ll mention some new restaurants as well as some old classics.
Beltana Farm
Beltana Farm opened in March 2024 from the team that brought us The Boathouse and Margot. It’s such a beautiful locale for a date, set on a truffle farm in Pialligo with over 800 trees (including plenty of beautiful poplars). I imagine it’s amazing in Autumn.
The restaurant itself is beautiful, too – with a blend of contemporary architecture with rustic elements and a two-sided fireplace for extra warmth. For the warmer months, retractable glass walls allow for an open, airy feel that blends the indoor and outdoor dining areas. The cuisine is modern Australian, with a focus on fresh seasonal ingredients and, of course, truffles. Most of the plates are designed to be shared, which is perfect for a date! The tasting menu is $110 per person.
Such and Such
Such and Such, located at London Circuit in the heart of the city, is another new restaurant that’s been making waves in the foodie scene. It’s no wonder: Such and Such recently snagged the title of New Restaurant of the Year from the Good Food Guide 2024 Awards. It serves modern Australian cuisine with a twist, balancing both classic and creative dishes.
The menu encourages sharing, offering everything from small snacks to larger sharing plates. If you and your partner enjoy the finer things and try new and exciting flavours together, this is perfect.
The décor is relaxed, with playful pops of colour and a few retro touches. Such and Such does a great job of dispelling the common conception that fine-dining restaurants have to be serious and stuffy. The shared set menu is $105, but Such and Such offers an a la carte menu as well. Even though Such and Such has only been open for a year, it has 12 hats from the Australian Good Food Guide.
Out of the Box Activities
Now that we’ve covered the more traditional date idea of dinner, let’s explore some out-of-the-box options in Canberra for couples who feel like they’ve already done it all.
Prove Your Skills as a Team in an Escape Room
If you’re up for a challenge and some fun, try an escape room for your next date. Escape rooms are perfect for testing your teamwork as you solve puzzles and find clues to ‘escape’ the room within a set time limit. Canberra has so many escape room venues, each offering different themes and difficulty levels, so you’re spoiled for choice. Revelation Puzzle Rooms in Fyshwick is my personal favourite.
Whether you’re cracking codes in a spy mission or solving a mystery in a haunted library, you’ll have plenty to talk about as you work together. It’s a great way to see how well you collaborate, and it’s a lot of fun, whether it’s your first date or your fiftieth.
Hijinx Hotel and Holey Moley
Want to see your date’s competitive side while making some fun memories together? Try Hijinx Hotel and Holey Moley. Hijinx Hotel offers a series of quirky-themed rooms where you can play interactive games that challenge your physical and mental skills. It’s like stepping into a game show where you and your date can test your agility, puzzle-solving abilities, and teamwork!
If you’ve still got energy after that, Holy Moley is right next door. They’re a mini golf course and bar that completely levels up traditional putt putt – each hole has a different theme, chock-a-block with pop culture references and nostalgic 90s motifs. After playing a round, you can enjoy pizza and a cocktail or have a go at one of the arcade games.
Canberra’s Best Bars
Don’t listen to any Melbournians or Sydney-Siders who complain Canberra has no nightlife. They just don’t know where to go. Canberra definitely pulls its weight when it comes to fantastic bars where you and your date can unwind with a drink in hand and enjoy a laid-back atmosphere. There’s no better way to break the ice with your date than with a world-class cocktail in hand.
Bar Rochford, for the Refined
Bar Rochford is the perfect place for a memorable and romantic date. Located on the first floor of the historic Melbourne Building, it’s one of the most acclaimed bars in all of Australia. Awarded Bar of the Year in 2018 by Gourmet Traveller, it’s known for its lively atmosphere and an incredible menu that leans heavily on modern Australian cuisine with a twist. The place has a great mix of old-school charm and contemporary style, with comfy seating and dim, mood lighting that sets the perfect tone for a romantic night out. Bar Rochford is prestigious and upscale without ever feeling stuffy. The staff are relaxed but never let the quality of service slip.
Bar Rochford is famous for its curated wine list and inventive cocktails, making it a favourite for those who appreciate a good drink with their meal. The menu is all shared plates, so you and your date can try a bit of everything.
Bar Beirut, for the Cocktail Lovers
Just to disclose any bias before I tell you about Beirut Bar, I have to tell you it’s my absolute favourite nighttime venue in Canberra. If you’re looking for party vibes, go Bar Beirut. For one, it’s right in the middle of the action in Garema place – secondly, everything about Bar Beirut, from the menu to the ambience, is vibrant and different from everything else in Canberra.
The small bar is dimly lit by colourful lanterns and adorned with patterned tiles, instantly setting the tone for a cosy date. I recommend starting your date with one of their mezze plates – they’re perfect for sharing. The smoked baba ghanouj and honey grilled a halloumi are my forever go-to. Go on a Friday night if you want a bit of entertainment with your dinner – they often host belly dancing and live music.
Where Bar Beirut really shines, however, is its unbeatable cocktail menu. You’re not going to find their signature cocktails anywhere else – think apricot brandy, wasabi-infused vodka, and lycée liqueur. They have a 4-page cocktail menu, with everything from forgotten classics to a full martini cart and a large selection of non-alcoholic cocktails. The best thing on the menu, though – is the boozy bubble tea. I’m not a big cocktail drinker on the whole, but there’s nothing better than their espresso bubble tea.
There is a slight caveat to Beirut Bar – it’s a small space that always brings a large crowd. You might to book ahead and bring some earplugs!
Howling Moon, one of Canberra’s Coolest Rooftop Bars
Looking for a date spot with a view that’ll knock your date’s socks off? Let me introduce you to Howling Moon. Perched atop the Canberra Rex Hotel in Braddon. You’ll be treated to a panoramic vista of Canberra that’ll make you fall in love with the city all over again (and a little bit with each other too). It’s especially magical at sunset when the sky turns all sorts of pretty colours over the mountains.
The vibe at Howling Moon is what I’d call ‘casual chic’. It’s fancy enough for a special date night, but not so stuffy that you can’t relax. The outdoor seating area is my favourite spot – there’s something about sipping a cocktail under the stars that just feels right.
Speaking of cocktails, they’ve got some real winners. Their gin selection is impressive, and they know how to mix a mean G&T. If you’re feeling adventurous, try one of their signature cocktails. The ‘Howler’ is a crowd-pleaser, but personally, I’m partial to the ‘Lunar Eclipse’. Food-wise, they offer a range of share plates that are perfect for grazing while you chat. The arancini balls are addictive, and the charcuterie board is great for nibbling.
Outdoor Date Ideas
Alright, let’s step away from the indoor haunts and explore some of Canberra’s gorgeous outdoor spots – because nothing says romance quite like fresh air, open spaces, and the occasional encounter with a curious kangaroo.
GoBoat Around Lake Burley Griffin
Taking a GoBoat around Lake Burley Griffin is a fun twist on the typical Canberra lakeside date. These electric boats are easy to operate – no license needed – and are the perfect way to see Canberra from the water.
The concept is simple: rent a boat, pack a picnic, and explore the lake at your own pace. You can bring your own food and drinks, including alcohol (though the skipper should stay sober, of course).
The boats are eco-friendly and whisper-quiet, so you can actually hear each other talk – a novel concept on a date, I know! It’s a great opportunity for some uninterrupted conversation while taking in views of landmarks like Parliament House and the National Museum.
The standard booking time is 2 hours, starting at $149. One last thing – don’t forget sunscreen and a hat. There’s nothing romantic about a bad sunburn, as I unfortunately learnt from experience.
Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride
If you’re looking to really impress, enjoying a romantic hot air balloon ride over Canberra is hard to beat. It’s an early start – you’ll need to be up before dawn – but the views are worth the alarm clock pain.
Canberra is one of the few places where you can balloon over a capital city, and it’s a great way to admire our planned layout and the beauty of Canberra. As you drift over the city, you’ll see landmarks like Parliament House, Lake Burley Griffin, and the War Memorial from a whole new angle. The experience typically lasts about four hours, with around an hour in the air. Most companies offer a champagne breakfast after you land, which is a nice way to round off the morning.
It’s definitely not a cheap date, with prices usually starting around $400 per person. Weather can also be a factor – flights might be cancelled if conditions aren’t right. But if you’re after a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime kind of date that’s sure to score you some brownie points, this is it. In fact, just from anecdotal evidence, I’d say it’s one of the most popular ways to propose in Canberra. There’s something undeniably romantic about floating above the city as it wakes up.
Take a Walk Around Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve
Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve is a gem just outside the city. It’s perfect for couples who enjoy a bit of quality time together in nature and don’t mind a walk. Tidbinbilla is about a 40-minute drive from central Canberra, making it feel like a mini adventure without the long road trip.
The reserve has plenty of walking trails to choose from, from easy 15-minute strolls to more challenging hikes. The Sanctuary Loop is a favourite – it’s an easy 2.1 km walk where you’re almost guaranteed to spot some wildlife while wandering hand in hand.
Tidbinbilla is one of the best places near Canberra to see animals in their natural habitat. Keep your eyes peeled for kangaroos, emus, and koalas. If you’re lucky (and quiet), you might even spot a platypus in the wetlands. Pack a picnic blanket to enjoy at one of the many scenic spots, or grab a bite at the café.
Entry to the reserve costs $15 per car, which is a small price to pay for a day in nature. It’s a great way to get to know someone on a first date without the pressure of sitting across a table from each other. If conversation lulls, you can always point out a passing wallaby.
National Zoo and Aquarium
The zoo! It might be a bit out of the box when it comes to date ideas, but it’s one of my and my partner’s favourite things to do at least once a year. We both love animals, and it’s a great chance to spend quality time together as we wander from enclosure to enclosure.
Even though we’ve been together a few times already, we’re not sick of it yet – Canberra’s National Zoo and Aquarium is one of the best in Australia, after all. It has a huge range of animals, including endangered species like white lions, rhinoceroses and Sri Lankan leopards.
If you want to make your date extra special, you can book an animal encounter to get up close and personal with some of these majestic animals. You can feed a tiger or even play with a cheetah. It’s not cheap – prices start at about $120 per person, but it’s definitely something you and your date will never forget.
If you really want to go all out and fully immerse yourselves, you can actually stay in the zoo in the Jamala Wildlife Lodge. What a childhood dream come true. Best of all, many of them face animal enclosures with floor-to-ceiling windows, so you can enjoy a romantic breakfast in bed while watching the lions wake up for the day. At around $1500 a night, it’s definitely not an everyday thing, but it could be perfect for a big celebration.
Live Music and Entertainment
If you and your date prefer listening to live music and enjoying entertainment over a quiet restaurant, Canberra has a pretty decent live music and entertainment scene. While we might not get as many big-ticket names as Melbourne or Sydney, we can still hold our own when it comes to a night out.
Gigs at Smith’s Alternative
If you and your date both love live gigs, Smith’s Alternative is a great shout. It’s this cool little venue right in the city centre on Alinga Street that is always hosting artists worth seeing.
The place isn’t massive – it fits about 80 people – which makes for a cosy, intimate atmosphere perfect for a date. It’s got a bit of a living room feel, with comfy couches and a laid-back ambience that’s great for first dates or long-term couples alike. You’re close enough to the stage to really feel part of the action, but there’s enough space to chat between sets if you’re still getting to know each other.
They’ve got gigs on pretty much every night of the week, covering everything from local bands to touring musicians, comedy nights, and even poetry slams. It’s a great way to break the ice on a first date – you’ve always got the music to talk about if there’s a gap in conversation. In my opinion, discovering new music together is one of the most special things you can do together. Who knows, you might even discover ‘your’ song!
Ticket prices are date-friendly too, usually between $15 and $30 per person. There’s a bar for drinks, and you can grab a toastie if you get peckish. They don’t have a full kitchen, but you’re welcome to bring food from other venues if you want more than just a snack.
One tip for a smooth date night: book ahead. Smith’s can fill up fast, especially on weekends. Check their website for upcoming gigs and snag your tickets early. That way, you can impress your date with a bit of planning and avoid any awkward moments of being turned away at the door.
Catch a Show at the Canberra Theatre Centre
If you’re after a bit of culture for your date night, the Canberra Theatre Centre is where it’s at. It’s in the middle of Civic, so you can easily grab dinner beforehand or a drink after the show. and make a night out of it.
The Canberra Theatre Centre is actually made up of three different venues: the Canberra Theatre (which seats about 1,200 people), The Playhouse (a more intimate space with around 600 seats), and The Studio (a flexible black-box space for smaller shows). This means there’s usually something on to suit whatever mood you’re in – from big Broadway musicals and ballet to edgy contemporary plays and stand-up comedy.
Tickets here can be a bit pricier than your average movie date. Depending on the show, you might be looking at anywhere from $50 to $150 per person. However, it’s a chance to get dressed up, feel a bit fancy, and experience something special together.
If you’re trying to impress, book seats in the first few rows of the stalls. The view is great, and there’s always the chance you’ll get pulled up on stage if it’s that kind of show – though maybe check if your date is into that sort of thing first!
A Levelled Up Cinema Date at Dendy’s Premium Lounge
Alright, I know what you’re thinking – a cinema date? It seems a bit cliché, but hear me out. Dendy’s Premium Lounge is a first-class cinema experience. Instead of cramped seats and overpriced popcorn, you get comfy recliners, in-seat service, and a proper food and drink menu. We’re talking wood-fired pizzas, cheese platters, and even cocktails delivered right to your seat. It’s a far cry from smuggling in a bag of M&Ms and hoping the person in front doesn’t recline their seat.
One tip: book the back row if you can. The seats are slightly elevated, giving you the best view in the house. And if you’re on a first date and things are going well, it’s the perfect spot for a cheeky hand-hold without feeling like the whole cinema is watching. Just remember to actually watch some of the movie – it’s easy to get distracted by the fancy seats and table service. After all, you want to have something to talk about over post-movie drinks, right?
Happy Dating!
There you have it – a solid list of date ideas to keep you busy in Canberra. From fancy restaurants to outdoor adventures, we’ve covered a range of options to suit different tastes and budgets.
Canberra might not have the biggest reputation for excitement, but as you can see, there’s plenty to do if you know where to look. Whether you’re after a quiet dinner, a cultural night out, or something more adventurous, Canberra has you covered. I will also rally against people who say Canberra is boring – we’re surrounded by some of the best dining and cultural experiences in all of Australia. This list proves it.
We’ll keep updating this list as new spots pop up, so check back next time you’re stuck for ideas. Happy dating, Canberra!