Canberra is fast becoming one of the top foodie destinations in Australia, with a wealth of fine-dining restaurants to choose from.

Once known as merely the capital of Australia city, Canberra has proven critics wrong over the past decade, fast becoming known for its thrumming hive of creative, unique restaurants and, in particular, a fine dining scene to rival that of Sydney and Melbourne.

A visit to Canberra would not be complete without splurging on one of the many luxury dining experiences the city has to offer. From modern European cuisine to Japanese-style feasts, these are the best fine dining restaurants in Canberra.

1. Mu

Using the Japanese dining experience of Omakase (which translates to ‘leave it up to you’), at Mu you won’t be selecting your dishes – rather, the chefs create 11-course menus inspired by what produce and ingredients are best on the day.

Dining is tasting style, with plates delivered beginning with lighter fare and moving on to heavier courses. Premium sake pairings are available to really make a night of it, too.

Bookings go fast, so it’s worth locking down a spot in advance – there are two sittings between Tuesday and Thursday at 6 pm and 7 pm, with Friday and Saturday sittings at 5:45 pm and 8 pm.

Address: 1 Constitution Avenue, Canberra ACT

2. Corella Restaurant & Bar

Named as one of the Top 82 restaurants by Gourmet Traveller two years in a row, Corella Restaurant & Bar may only be a few years old, but it’s already renowned as one of Canberra’s best fine dining restaurants.

Inspired by native Australian flavours and ingredients, expect fresh fare and a cosy ambience, with good service and an extensive wine and cocktails list. Whether its date night or just dinner with friends, Corella is the perfect place to pop in.

Address: 14 Lonsdale Street, Braddon ACT

3. Pilot

This intimate 24-seater in Ainslie is all about experience. You won’t have to worry about fussing over a bunch of options and picking between two (or more) delicious dishes. The menu here is set, taking the onus off you and letting you sit back, relax and enjoy your meal.

There’s the $105 lunch menu, $150 Pilot menu and, if you want to splash out, the $195 extended menu. Each features an array of fresh produce with seasonal additions, plus a selection of Australian beverages. Pilot is a true hidden gem, and once you find it (hint: it’s tucked behind the local shops), you’ll be coming back for more.

Address: 1 Wakefield Gardens, Ainslie ACT

4. Capitol Bar & Grill

Many of Canberra’s best hotels also house some of the city’s best fine dining restaurants. The QT Canberra is a perfect example, where you’ll find Capitol Bar & Grill. Local ACT and NSW produce is the hero on its extensive menu, which favours wood-fired grills and fresh ingredients.

Known for its prime meat cuts, it’s no surprise the steak is to die for, arriving cooked to your liking and perfectly juicy. You can also order fresh seafood and sides to enjoy, as well. Order a Canberran varietal from the carefully curated wine list by Sommelier Ashleigh Smith.

Address: 1 London Circuit, Canberra ACT

5. Monster Kitchen & Bar

Chances are, if you’re relatively across Canberra’s fine dining scene, you’ve heard of Monster Kitchen & Bar. A cavernous, moody space at Ovolo Nishi, Monster has long been known for its intriguing dishes and creativity. But more recently, this divine restaurant has gained a new fanbase by going 100 per cent plant based.

Carnivores shouldn’t be put off by this news, though – you won’t miss your steak amidst punchy plates of cauliflower shawarma, coal-roasted autumn squash, chraime eggplant and oyster mushroom skewers. Don’t fill up too much though, the dessert options are also to die for.

Address: 25 Edinburgh Avenue, Canberra ACT

6. Courgette

Fine dining at its most classic is found at Canberra institution Courgette. Think opulent dining rooms, crisp white tablecloths and an intimate, unhurried experience, with modern European cuisine and premium wines.

Open for both lunch and dinner, Courgette is the perfect place for your next special occasion. You can dine via a three-course a la carte menu, a five-course degustation or the extensive, 100 per cent vegetarian degustation.

Address: 54 Marcus Clarke Street, Canberra ACT

7. Raku

If you’re looking for the best Japanese in Canberra, head to Raku. Known for its sushi and sashimi dishes, you can sit around the central workspace and watch chefs deftly slice your fish before it reaches your plate.

Order your dishes individually or choose from one of two tasting menus, priced between $110 and $170. Go the extra mile and order something from the wine or dessert menus; perhaps both. Raku also has a dedicated gluten-free menu with extensive options.

Address: 148 Bunda Street, Canberra ACT

8. OTIS

Awarded two hats by the Australian Good Food Guide in 2021, OTIS technically aligns itself with ‘fine-casual’ dining. Still, with head chef Damian Brabender’s stellar CV filled with Michelin-starred London restaurants and acclaimed Aussie resorts, OTIS will give you the fine dining experience you’re seeking.

The menu here is fresh, creative and seasonally-led, which is perfectly paired with premium matching wines. Choose from a variety of tasting menus, like the classic three-course degustation to the chef’s menu, which is only available Fridays and Saturdays.

Address: 29 Jardine Street, Kingston ACT

For more tried and tested eating-out options in Canberra, read our round-up of family-friendly restaurants, or our hit list of breakfast and brunch spots in Canberra.