Forget everything you know about the traditional canteen, Terra is about to flip the concept on its head. The produce-driven food destination sits right in the centre of Canberra’s CBD and is focused around breakfast and lunch only. Within its heaving plates of offerings you’ll find a range of straight-off-the-spit smoked and charcoal meats, gourmet lunch rolls, seasonal roasted vegetables, fresh salads and juices, healthy breakfast options, and Duke’s specialty coffee. Brothers Anthony and Marcus Iannelli of deli The Food Forum, and chef Sung Son have partnered on this venture in an effort to bring top quality (local) cuisine to the heart of the capital’s business precinct. 40 Marcus Clarke Street, Canberra; terracanberra.com.au.

www.italianandsons.com.au 7 Lonsdale St, Braddon, Canberra Now a Canberra institution, it’s questionable whether your trip to the capital isn’t complete without a visit to this casual Italian eatery. A part of the growing Trimboli family eating empire, the restaurant is focused on Italian food and flair. The award-winning trattoria was first welcomed to Canberra in 2009 and has since expanded to include an intimate wine bar out back, that comes equipped with an expansive wine menu and one of the best pizzas in town.

Owners Emily and Russell Brindley have evened the playing field for vegans wanting delicious baked goods. This vegan-cafe bakery champions organic ingredients and a rock ‘n’ roll vibe. Plant-based cinnamon buns, cakes, and a dine-in menu with a wholefoods ethos keeps both vegans and carnivores coming back. 18 Lonsdale St, Braddon www.sweetbonescompany.com

www.akiba.com.au 40 Bunda Street, Canberra Akiba sits some way between a bar and a restaurant and has a seemingly never-ending crowd drawn to both. Inspired by the great food halls of the Asia-Pacific, the casual eatery offers Asian-inspired cuisine that runs from raw bar to yum cha. It’s after hours that Akiba turns into more of a drinking hole, which sees an elaborate cocktail menu (and typically a DJ) accompany the eclectic food selection.

The sophisticated older sibling of Italian & Sons, Mezzalira is the go-to for a meal that delivers in the capital. The sleek Italian establishment is focused on its vino, and comes accompanied with a multi-award-winning wine menu that mingles the best drops that both Australia and Italy have to offer. Handmade pasta, and a slew of quality antipasti offerings are at the heart of the restaurant which sits nestled in the historic Melbourne Building that once served as a bank. 55 London Circuit, Canberra www.mezzalira.com.au