For those times when a regular dining room just isn’t enough and you need a spectacular view to go with your meal, choose these restaurants and cafes in Canberra that sit perfectly along one of our lakes.

The Boat House

An iconic Canberra fine-dining restaurant, The Boat House boasts not only an exquisite seasonal modern Australia menu but also picturesque views of Lake Burley Griffin. Sitting right by the shores in a quiet part of the lake, dine by the window and watch the sun go down over the Brindabellas.

Snapper & Co

Bringing beachside vibes to our humble Lake Burley Griffin, Snapper & Co serves Canberra’s best fish and chips alfresco style. Whether choosing the deck, courtyard or lawn area, think lazy lunches or afternoons over a wine, fresh seafood and live music.

Margot Bar

Enjoy French wine like you’re on the Seine River in Paris at Margot Bar. Situated along the bridge-to-bridge walk, stop by on your morning walk and pick up a morning coffee and pastry or end your arvo with a curated cheese board and wine. For summer, the bar has also introduced a new menu with the addition of housemade pizzas and icy frozé.

The Marion

Enjoy a decadent high tea or lunch at The Marion and enjoy sweeping views of Lake Burley Griffin no matter which table you’re placed at. In an elegant dining room, guests can enjoy a selection of sweet and savoury bites with a glass of bubbles prepared daily by their award-winning pâtissier or opt for a 2-3 course modern Australian meal.

Walt & Burley

The perfect spot to soak up lakeside views over great pub food, Walt & Burley is a fun casual spot to catch up with friends. Beautiful any time of day, sit outside and you won’t regret it!

Molto Italian

Next time you want a romantic dinner for two…with a view, choose Molto Italian on the Kingston Foreshore. With all the Aperol Spritzes and Cacio e Pepe you could ever ask for, sit yourself facing the water and soak it all in.

Water’s Edge

Directly across from the Australian War Memorial, relax indoors or outdoors at Water’s Edge overlooking the water. Offering a fine-dining lunch and dinner menu, the one-hatted restaurant has been serving fine modern Australian cuisine for more than 15 years.

Two Before Ten Greenway

Drink copious amounts of coffee and get your favourite brekky fuel at Tuggerangong’s first Two Before Ten café. If you manage to snag an outdoor table, bring your pooch and enjoy picturesque views of Lake Tuggeranong.

Lighthouse Pub

A local favourite along Emu Bank on Lake Ginninderra, the Lighthouse Pub has everything you could want, great pub food, tap beers, a lively atmosphere and an outdoor deck facing the lake.

Love dining outside? Check out the top 10 places to dine alfresco in Canberra.