Café Sosta

In the serene landscape of Acton, Australian Capital Territory, Café Sosta invites you to pause and experience lakeside dining at its most authentic. Nestled within the iconic Red Shed on the Black Mountain Peninsula, our Italian-inspired cafe delivers more than just a meal — it offers a genuine retreat from the bustle of Canberra. The name “Sosta” itself means “to have a moment’s rest” in Italian, and that philosophy shapes everything we do.

Whether you arrive by foot, bike, or kayak, you will sense the difference the moment you step onto our deck. The aroma of freshly ground espresso mingles with the scent of baked goods, while panoramic views of Lake Burley Griffin unfold before you. We have partnered with Bisa Hospitality, the renowned team behind Agostinis and Joe’s Bar in Canberra, to craft a menu that balances Mediterranean vitality with the comfort of classic cafe fare.

Our Lakeside Setting

Location defines the Café Sosta experience. Red Shed sits at the water’s edge on John Cardiff Close, a tranquil corner of the Black Mountain Peninsula. Floor-to-ceiling views immerse you in the natural beauty of the Australian territory, creating an atmosphere that shifts beautifully from serene morning to golden afternoon.

• Direct lakefront access – perfect for a post-walk coffee or a leisurely brunch with a view.
• Ample outdoor seating – covered decks and open tables let you choose sun or shade while watching kayakers glide across the water.
• Close to Canberra attractions – just minutes from the city center yet worlds away in ambience.

Breakfast & Brunch Offerings

Mornings at Café Sosta are built around an Italian-inspired breakfast menu focused on fresh, wholesome ingredients. Our chefs source seasonal produce to craft bowls, toasts, and pastries that honor Mediterranean simplicity and nutrition.

Regulars rave about the French toast, a standout that pairs soft, custardy bread with seasonal fruit and a drizzle of local honey. For those seeking balance, the breakfast bowl layers crisp vegetables, grains, and a poached egg for a satisfying start to the day. Each dish pairs beautifully with our signature espresso, pulled from beans that highlight chocolate and toasted nut notes.

Breakfast Favorites

• Classic French Toast – thick-cut bread soaked in vanilla batter, griddled to golden, and topped with berries.
• Italian Breakfast Bowl – farro, roasted capsicum, spinach, and a soft egg dressed in herb oil.
• House-made Pastries – bomboloni, cornetti, and seasonal tarts baked fresh each morning.
• Avocado & Feta Smash – sourdough, lemon-kissed avocado, crumbled Australian feta, and cherry tomatoes.

Lunch & All-Day Dining

Come midday, Café Sosta transitions to a lunch service that celebrates Mediterranean lightness with satisfying depth. The menu shifts from breakfast staples to vibrant salads, artisan sandwiches, and house-made pasta plates that speak to the Italian heritage at our core.

A daily pasta special often takes center stage — think pappardelle with slow-braised lamb ragù or a delicate spaghettini with fresh local seafood and lemon gremolata. For something lighter, the grilled vegetable panino packs roasted zucchini, eggplant, and peppers inside crisp ciabatta, pressed until the mozzarella melts.

Midday Highlights

• Italian Club Sandwich – prosciutto, grilled chicken, sun-dried tomato pesto, and arugula on focaccia.
• Mediterranean Grain Salad – quinoa, pomegranate, mint, cucumber, and citrus vinaigrette.
• Fresh Pasta of the Day – rotating selection made in-house using traditional techniques.
• Seasonal Soup & Toast – rotating soups like Tuscan bean or roasted tomato served with grilled bread.

Espresso Bar & Refreshments

Coffee is the heartbeat of Café Sosta. Our baristas extract every cup with precision, working with a house blend developed in collaboration with Canberra roasters. Beyond the classic espresso, long black, and macchiato, we offer a full range of cold brew, iced lattes, and affogatos that shine on warm afternoons.

For non-coffee drinkers, the beverage list features Italian sodas, fresh-pressed juices, and a curated selection of local and Italian wines, ideal for a relaxed lunch on the deck. Our licensed bar lets you enjoy an Aperol spritz or Campari soda as you watch the sun dance across Lake Burley Griffin.

• Espresso & Coffee Classics – latte, cappuccino, flat white, ristretto.
• Cold Beverages – iced mocha, cold brew, Sicilian lemonade, sparkling blood orange.
• Wine & Cocktails – rotating Australian and Italian wines, classic spritzes, seasonal cocktails.

Serving Acton & the Australian Capital Territory

Acton is a dynamic cultural and recreational hub within Canberra, and Café Sosta is proud to contribute to its vibrant community. We welcome cyclists pausing on a lakeside ride, families enjoying a weekend outing, and rowers from the Red Shed club seeking a post-training meal.

Our partnership with Bisa Hospitality strengthens Canberra’s dining landscape, bringing the same commitment to quality that guests have come to expect at Agostinis and Joe’s Bar. Visitors and locals alike discover a welcoming space where Mediterranean hospitality meets the relaxed spirit of the Australian capital.

Hours, Location & Directions

We open Wednesday through Sunday from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM, making the cafe an ideal destination for breakfast and lunch. You will find us inside Red Shed on John Cardiff Close, Acton ACT 2601. Free parking is available on-site, and the adjacent bike paths make a two-wheeled approach equally convenient.

Public transport options connect frequently from Canberra City, with buses stopping near the Black Mountain Peninsula entrance; from there it is a scenic short walk to the cafe. For inquiries, please call +61 2 6178 0038 or visit our website to book a table or browse the latest menu.

• Address: Red Shed, John Cardiff Close, Acton ACT 2601
• Phone: +61 2 6178 0038
• Hours: Wed–Sun, 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM (closed Mon & Tue)

Questions Visitors Ask

When planning a visit to Café Sosta, guests often wonder about parking, dietary options, and what to expect from the menu. Here we answer the most common inquiries so you can arrive informed and ready to relax.

Our staff is trained to accommodate allergies and preferences wherever possible, and the kitchen adjusts daily specials based on ingredient availability. The menu maintains a focus on healthy Mediterranean cooking, meaning many dishes are naturally vegetarian or can be adapted.

Is there parking available at Red Shed?

Yes, complimentary parking is available on-site, including accessible spaces near the entrance. The lot rarely fills during cafe hours, making arrival easy even on busy weekends.

Can I make a reservation?

Absolutely. Use the booking link on our website or call +61 2 6178 0038. Walk-ins are also welcome, and our spacious deck rarely keeps guests waiting.

Does Café Sosta cater to dietary requirements?

We offer gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options daily. Please alert your server to any allergies, and the kitchen will guide you toward safe, delicious choices.

Is the cafe family-friendly?

Very much so. High chairs are available, the deck has room for prams, and the relaxed lakeside setting lets kids enjoy the outdoors while you dine.

Do you offer takeaway or delivery?

Takeaway is available for all menu items. However, we currently do not provide third-party delivery; we recommend ordering directly at the counter or by phone for pickup.