Romantic Restaurants, Getaway Places in Portsea

"This modern-hawker style venue encapsulates some the best Asian-fusion dining available in the Canberra region. Home to many tasty morsels, extensive sake list, and a raw bar this venue has character in spades. Akiba describes itself as “pan-Asian,” fusing the cuisines of the East Asia region to create an incredible and diverse menu, showcasing the many styles of Asian barbecue, modern-day Dim Sum, raw food, and so much more."

"At AKIBA, we’re inspired by the informal and exciting atmosphere of great food halls and dining rooms throughout the East-Asia region. The food showcases the many styles of Asian barbecue, raw bar and modern day Dim Sum, and demonstrates a dazzling array of fresh flavours. Cooked over live...See More"

"It’s one of those rare places that’s as comfortable for breakfast as it is for midnight cocktails, and you never EVER think you’re sitting in a hotel foyer. There are nooks to hide away in, a fire to warm yourself next to, and the elegant salon right next door, should you decide to head in for something more substantial. The great thing about Monster isn’t Sean McConnell’s inventive cuisine (although it’s amazing), or the carefully crafted cocktails and interesting wine list; it’s that this is a place that transcends generations."

"Vegetarians will understand the disappointment when dining out and having limited options to choose from. However, Monster Kitchen and Bar is entirely vegetarian – and extremely delicious at that. In fact, we promise you’ll impress your meat eating friends here with a whole head cauliflower – that actually hits the spot."

"This Australian national art collection is showcased in an impressive purpose-built gallery within the parliamentary precinct. Almost every big name you could think of from Australian and international art, past and present, is represented. Famous works include one of Monet's Waterlilies, several of Sidney Nolan's Ned Kelly paintings, Salvador Dali's Lobster Telephone, an Andy Warhol Elvis print and a triptych by Francis Bacon."

"The most comprehensive collection of Australian art in the country is on exhibit in the nation's premier art gallery, including superlative…"

"Providing authentic Italian cuisine and wine in a lively and intimate setting, Italian & Co is the city’s go-to for antipasti, cured meats and charcuterie, as well as wood-fired pizzas and handmade pasta filled with ingredients such as house smoked duck breast with pecorino and pink peppercorns. Don’t forget to try the imported Italian cheeses paired with fortified wines. italianandsons.com.au"

"Since sparking the Lonsdale Street transformation when first opening in 2009, Italian and Sons has truly maintained its place as one of Canberra’s finest Italian restaurants. Boasting a menu that will immediately get your mouth watering, start with the affettati, a charcuterie board with cold cuts, Provolone, grissini and broad bean pesto. Moving on to mains, you’re spoilt for choice."

"If you are in search of exciting cocktails, rums, and punches, this is the dance club for you. Here, you get to dance to the hottest and latest Afro-Cuban and Latin beats. This is definitely one of the hippest places to be in on a Sunday night."

"Kid’s meals are only $15 each at the First Edition Restaurant And Bar, with plenty of classic options to leave everyone feeling full and satisfied. The menu includes cheeseburgers, chicken nuggets, grilled fish, ham and pineapple pizza, spaghetti bolognese, and toasted sandwiches. Not to mention, the meal also comes with either vegetables or salad, a drink, and two scoops of ice cream to finish."

"Royal Botanic Gardens –you can’t beat the serenity and harbour views from these gardens. Have a picnic or take a walk and admire the many different types of plants and city views on a free self-guided walking tour."

"Built in 1988, Australia's national parliament building is a graceful and deeply symbolic piece of architecture. Sitting atop Capital Hill, the building is crossed by two axis, north–south and east–west, representing the historical progression and legislative progression of Australian democracy. There's plenty to see inside, whether the politicians are haranguing each other in the chambers or not."

"Snappy and modern with a focal square bar that takes pride of place in the centre of the room, Parlour Wine Room has emerged anew. Packed with tables and cosy nooks with couches perfect for hiding away from the cool of winter, it’s on Parlour’s terrace that you’ll be wanting a seat this summer as you overlook the evolving precinct of NewActon with a signature cocktail in hand."

"Many think a speakeasy should be underground, but the emphasis is on ‘hidden’ – in this case, Lucky’s is at street level, but you do have to find it via a secret entrance at the back of the hotel’s Barber Shop or a discreetly lit entrance from outside. Those readers of a certain ‘vintage’ may remember the space as its previous incarnation as‘Bobby McGee’s’ but let me tell you, there’s no ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ being played here – it’s all class with a curated DJ set adding atmosphere. It’s sizeable, the space feels sophisticated and intimate, with booths providing privacy."

"Even locals can’t find this bar — and that’s just how the owners like it. It’s Canberra’s only ‘real’ speak-easy and it’s so cool it hurts. Speakeasies of the Prohibition era were a well-kept secret — illegal, hidden drinking dens where you really only needed a bottle to qualify."