Grease Monkey

Grease Monkey brings a serious dose of American-style indulgence right to the heart of Braddon. Located at 19 Lonsdale Street, this lively spot is all about big flavors, cold drinks, and a fun, unpretentious atmosphere. The crew is grilling from 11am until late every day, making it easy to satisfy a burger craving whether it’s lunchtime, a late dinner, or a weekend feast with friends. From the moment you walk in, the energy is infectious — upbeat music, friendly faces, and the mouthwatering aroma of sizzling patties and crispy fries fill the air.

The menu is built around the holy trinity of comfort food: burgers, beers, and shakes. But that’s just the start. You'll also find indulgent fried chicken, Detroit-style pizzas, loaded hot dogs, and more. The team sources quality produce and packs every dish with flavor, earning a loyal following and a stellar reputation across Canberra. Whether you choose to dine in, grab takeaway, or order contactless delivery, the experience is consistently satisfying.

What Makes the Menu Special

The food at Grease Monkey is designed to be unapologetically hearty and delicious. While burgers take center stage, several signature items keep the regulars coming back. The Greasy Burger and Fries is a classic that never disappoints, featuring a juicy smashed patty, melted cheese, special sauce, and a generous pile of golden fries. Chicken lovers rave about the Dirty Bird — crispy fried chicken that delivers the perfect crunch-to-juiciness ratio.

Beyond the usual burger joint fare, Grease Monkey has become known for its Detroit-style pizza, a rectangular deep-dish pie with a thick, chewy crust, caramelized cheese edges, and bold toppings. The Philly Cheesesteak also makes an appearance for those craving something a little different. To wash it all down, the bar serves a rotating selection of craft beers, iconic milkshakes, and well-chosen cocktails. For larger gatherings, the food truck extends the same great menu to parties, events, and functions across the region.

Burgers, Pizza & More: A Closer Look

Classic Smashed Burgers

Each burger is built on a soft, toasted bun with a perfectly seared smashed patty. The Maillard reaction creates a deep, savory crust while locking in the juices. Toppings range from the timeless lettuce-tomato-onion combo to loaded creations with bacon jam, jalapeños, and signature sauces. Vegetarian options are also available so every guest can join the feast.

Detroit-Style Pizza

Inspired by the Motor City’s legendary pizzerias, these rectangular pies are baked in steel pans until the cheese turns crispy and golden at the edges. The thick, airy dough provides a sturdy base for generous layers of pepperoni, Italian sausage, mushrooms, or a simple margherita. It’s a style that has won over Canberra locals looking for something beyond the typical round pizza.

Fried Chicken & Hot Dogs

The fried chicken comes in baskets, burgers, and tenders — always crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside. For dog enthusiasts, the hot dog selection features premium franks loaded with creative toppings like slaw, chili, and pickled jalapeños. It’s street food elevated to a whole new level.

Drinks, Shakes & Happy Hour

The bar program is as serious as the food. The beer taps pour a curated mix of local craft brews and favorite imports, making it a genuine destination for beer lovers. Seasonal rotations keep the selection fresh, and the staff are always happy to recommend a pairing for your meal. Cocktails lean toward fun, nostalgic serves — think spiked milkshakes and boozy slushies that complement the menu’s playful vibe.

The milkshake menu deserves its own spotlight. Thick, creamy, and topped with whipped cream, these shakes come in classic flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry as well as limited-edition creations. During happy hour, discounted drinks draw a lively crowd, making the Braddon venue a favorite after-work hangout. Keep an eye on social media or ask the team about current specials.

Dine-In, Takeaway & Delivery Options

Grease Monkey is built for flexibility. The spacious dining room on Lonsdale Street welcomes walk-ins and reservations alike — you can book a table via the website to skip the wait on busy evenings. Large booths and communal tables make it a great spot for groups, whether you are celebrating a birthday, catching the game, or just unwinding after work.

If you prefer to enjoy the feast at home, online pickup is fast and convenient. Place an order through the website, swing by the shop, and your food will be ready to go. For maximum convenience, delivery brings the entire menu straight to your door. The contactless delivery option ensures everything is handled with care and safety.

Locations Across Canberra & Mobile Catering

While the flagship Braddon kitchen on Lonsdale Street started it all, Grease Monkey now serves burgers and good times from multiple locations around the ACT. The Gungahlin store operates from Shop 63/33 Hibberson Street, the Woden team fires up the grills at Shop R04 Bradley Street inside Westfield Woden, and the Belconnen outpost is located at Shop 332B, Westfield Belconnen Shopping Centre. Every site follows the same creed: grilling from 11am ‘til late, seven days a week.

Beyond the permanent locations, the Grease Monkey Food Truck brings the party to you. Available for private events, weddings, corporate functions, and festivals, the mobile setup delivers the same quality burgers, fries, and drinks on the road. The catering team works directly with hosts to customize menus and ensure a seamless experience.

What Visitors Love About Grease Monkey

• Consistent quality: regulars note that whether it’s a packed Friday night or a quiet Tuesday lunch, the food hits the mark every time.
• Value for money: generous portions and fair pricing make it easy to enjoy a full meal without breaking the bank.
• Vibe and service: the upbeat atmosphere, retro-inspired décor, and genuinely attentive staff keep tables turning and reviews glowing.
• Dietary flexibility: vegetarian and adaptable menu items mean groups with different tastes can all find something to love.
• Easy ordering: with table reservations, online pickup, and delivery channels, the team has made getting great food as effortless as possible.

With an average spend of $20–$40 per person and high ratings across Google and other platforms, Grease Monkey has cemented its status as one of Canberra's go-to spots for an unpretentious, satisfying meal any day of the week.

Payment, Hours & Finding Us

Grease Monkey Braddon is open daily from 11:00 AM to 9:30 PM. The kitchen serves straight through, so you can drop in whenever hunger strikes. The restaurant accepts all major payment methods, and gift cards — ideal for sharing the Grease Monkey experience with a friend — are available through the website.

Located at 19 Lonsdale St, Braddon ACT 2612, the venue is easy to reach by car, with street parking and nearby public car parks. Public transport options include several bus routes that stop within a short walk. Bicycle racks are available out front for riders, and the area is pedestrian-friendly. Simply plug the address into your maps app and look for the distinctive signage — you can't miss it.