Where to dine with your Valentine this year in Canberra

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about what you plan to do and how to show your love and appreciation towards your other half on the most romantic day of the year.

Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner date with your spouse or hosting a Gal-entine’s Day brunch with all your friends, we’ve made a list of some places serving up delicious desserts, drinks and dining experiences this Valentine’s Day.

Psst … For anyone reading this who never seems to remember when Valentine’s Day is, this one’s for you. It’s the 14th of February (and yes, it’s every year).

Lilotang

If you like exploring Japanese cuisine with your Valentine, then Lilotang is the place to be.

On Tuesday evening, from 6:30 pm, 7 pm and 7:30 pm, come along with your loved one and treat them to a special Japanese degustation by Lilotang’s head chef.

Tickets are $140 per person and include a glass of champagne on arrival.

Buvette

Buvette in Barton is celebrating Valentine’s Day with a four-course set dinner menu curated by Buvette’s executive head chef.

Tables are available for booking at 6:30 pm, 7 pm and 7:30 pm. The cost is $160 per person.

MV Southern Cross

To celebrate Valentine’s Day and love, the MV Southern Cross is setting sail on Friday, 27 January, with their ‘Perfect Pairs’ cocktail cruise on the Lake.

Here, you’ll enjoy five wines, including Edgar’s Fortified, made by Edgar Riek himself.

Whether you want to go as a pair or cruise around with your friends for $75 per person, this is the perfect way to see Canberra at twilight, sip on some local wines and relax.

Leyla Bar

Sunsets, cocktails and canapes – what better way to Spend Valentine’s Day than on the top of the Burberry Hotel at Leyla Bar?

Although they don’t have a set menu, that doesn’t mean they don’t have great options on their menu for you and your loved one.

So what will it be? A glass of champagne or a nice bottle of red? Or does a sweet and fruity cocktail tingle your taste buds?

Leyla Bar has it all and more, not to mention the breathtaking views of Canberra and its gorgeous sunsets that can be seen from the bar.

Queenies

What better place to treat your queen (or king) this Valentine’s Day than Queenies?

Known for its unique desserts and an extensive menu of cocktails, Queenies in Kingston might be the perfect place to stop by and spend your evening.

It opens Monday to Thursday from 4 pm to 11:30 pm, Friday and Saturday from 12 pm to 12:30 am, and Sunday from 12 pm to 10 pm, and has everything you could want and more.

Capitol Bar & Grill

Located within the QT Hotel on London Circuit, Capitol Bar & Grill offers delicious food, desserts and drinks in an intimate yet relaxed atmosphere.

Generally, no bookings are required; however, as Valentine’s Day means there will be lovebirds everywhere, you might want to get in touch to avoid disappointment.

The Boat House

The Boat House is going all-out this Valentine’s Day with a five-course degustation menu paired with matching drinks.

Boat House chef John Leverink will work with their sommelier to create a delicious and decadent menu that explores the best regional produce alongside beautiful wines.

There are also vegan and gluten-free options available. Click here to see the set menu.

Tickets are $225 per person for food and alcohol, and $200 per person for food and non-alcoholic drinks. Dinner kicks off at 7 pm.

The Howling Moon

The Howling Moon is another rooftop bar famous for its panoramic views.

Situated at the top of the Canberra Rex Hotel, it features delicious drinks and modern alternatives to the classic snacks you’d normally find at a bar.

Bring your date and celebrate at The Howling Moon. Start with some drinks as you watch the sun go down, then as the stars come out and the live music comes on, dance the night away beneath the moonlight and make this evening special.

With no set menu for the occasion, bookings are still a must. Get in quick so you don’t miss out.

Bar Rochford

Bar Rochford is a hidden gem tucked away in the Melbourne Building in Canberra’s CBD, known for its wine list and signature cocktails.

They’re all about fine food and dining, sourcing wines directly from local producers. If you’re looking at celebrating Valentine’s Day but want it to be a little more lowkey and quiet, this is your place.

No bookings are required, just walk in, sit down and unwind and sip on a drink and enjoy the company of your partner this Valentine’s Day.

Highball Express

The Highball Express is back in Canberra with more to offer and a new look.

It’s a ‘touch more plush, a lot more luxe and perfectly boujee’ and remains one of Canberra’s favourite spots for a drink with beautiful views overlooking the Nation’s Capital.

Located above London Circuit, Highball is a great place to take your Valentine’s date as you can choose one of their signature tropical cocktails, exotic spirits or rich rums and wines.

They also have food on their menu, so whether you’re feeling peckish or want to enjoy a nice drink, this might be your perfect spot this Valentine’s Day.

The Italian Place

Nothing screams romance more than an evening dining at an Italian restaurant, and if you’re like me and love your pasta, The Italian Place is a must.

With handmade pasta, fresh fish and seafood, great quality meats and a focus on locally sourced produce, this restaurant has everything from pastas to meaty and seafood dishes, with traditional-style Italian sweets (of course).

There’s also an extensive wine list, great cocktails and an array of Italian soft drinks and spirits to choose from. Although they don’t have a set menu, there’s so much to choose from, so the choice is yours this Valentine’s Day.

They will be open from 6 pm. Book here to reserve your table.