Monster Kitchen and Bar nestled deep within the sleekly designed Hotel Hotel was once the pride and joy of the Canberra dining scene. When the hotel was purchased by Ovolo group, many feared this would be the last we would see of the industrial eatery.

But in a miracle of sorts, new owner Ovolo Hotels has decided to resurrect the casual diner as a part of new hotel Ovolo Nishi. Not just visitors to the capital, but Canberra locals have been kept in mind with the $5 million renovation of the space, says Ovolo Hotels CFO and COO Australia Dave Baswal.

“Ovolo is committed to evolving this iconic hotel and restaurant in-line with it’s original vision and aesthetic. We are excited to be investing further in Canberra,” he explains.

Alongside 17 new rooms designed by Luchetti Krelle comes the revamped cafe/restaurant, which will continue to be led by executive chef Daniel Flatt, but now joined by chef Ian Curley in the role of creative food partner. It’s been promised that the original ethos of Monster will remain; that of a menu of hearty share-style dishes, and largely contemporary Australian fare. The breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu will also continue to be shaped around seasonal ingredients sourced from Canberra region and its surrounds.

But the physical space will be a departure from the original; the ground floor has now been divided into two separate entertaining areas and expanded. The Monster Lounge will focus on cocktails and bar snacks, to be enjoyed on high bar seating and lounges. For those after something a little heartier, look towards the Monster Salon, which has undergone a yet-to-be unveiled extension.

Only time will tell what the new Monster Kitchen and Bar will look like, but we have no doubt considering Ovolo’s reputation, that the eatery will be heavy on chic.

Monster Kitchen and Bar
25 Edinburgh Avenue, Canberra
monsterkitchen.com.au