Badger & Co

Situated in the lively Kambri Precinct of the Australian National University, Badger & Co offers a welcoming space for students, staff, and the broader Canberra community to connect. As a modern campus pub, the venue bridges the gap between a relaxed daytime café and an energetic evening hangout, serving everything from morning coffee to late-night drinks. The team takes pride in creating a casual, inclusive atmosphere where you can bond over a burger, socialize over a chicken schnitty, meet over a beer, or catch up over a glass of wine.

Conveniently located at the Health & Well-being Centre on Joplin Lane in Acton, the pub is a central gathering spot. It operates as a cashless venue accepting card payments only. With a strong reputation among locals and visitors, Badger & Co maintains a 4.2-star rating from over 400 reviews, frequently praised for its campus vibe, quality pub fare, and friendly service.

What We Offer

The menu at Badger & Co focuses on classic pub favorites done well. Whether you are dropping in for a quick lunch between classes or settling in for a long dinner with friends, there is something for every appetite. The kitchen serves generous portions designed to satisfy, with dishes that pair perfectly with the extensive drinks selection.

• Hearty Pub Meals: Enjoy staples like Fish and Chips, Chicken Parmigiana, and Sirloin Steak, all prepared with quality ingredients and served in a relaxed setting.
• All-Day Dining: From early morning coffee at 8 am to late-night meals on weekends, the kitchen adapts to your schedule. Lunch, dinner, and snacks are available throughout the day.
• Drinks for Every Occasion: The bar pours local and imported beers, wines, and spirits. Whether you prefer a crisp lager, a bold red, or a crafted cocktail, the drinks list complements the food menu.
• Takeaway and Delivery: Customers can order food to go or have it delivered, offering flexibility for those who prefer to eat at home or in their accommodation.

Functions and Events

Beyond everyday dining, Badger & Co provides a versatile function space ideal for celebrations, social gatherings, and university events. The team works closely with guests to tailor menus and setups to suit birthdays, farewells, club meetups, and corporate functions. The dedicated functions page on the website allows easy inquiry and booking.

Tailored Event Packages

Flexible packages accommodate different group sizes and budgets. From casual stand-up cocktail evenings to seated dinners, every detail can be customized. The on-site team handles setup, catering, and service so hosts can relax and enjoy the occasion.

Hours, Location & Directions

Badger & Co is easy to find within the ANU campus, just steps from student residences, lecture halls, and public transport. The full address is 156/11 Pauline Griffin Health and Wellbeing Centre, Joplin Lane, Kambri, ANU, Acton ACT 0200. Ample cycling paths and pedestrian walkways lead to the venue, and street parking is available nearby.

• Monday to Wednesday: 8:00 am – 11:00 pm
• Thursday & Friday: 8:00 am – midnight
• Saturday: 11:30 am – midnight
• Sunday & Public Holidays: Closed

Given its location within a university precinct, public transport is heavily used. Several bus routes stop within a short walk, and the venue is easily accessible by bicycle. For those driving, traffic conditions can vary during semester, so allowing extra time before an event is recommended.

Why Customers Choose Us

Regulars and first-time visitors highlight a few consistent reasons Badger & Co stands out among Canberra pubs. The atmosphere is repeatedly described as welcoming and unpretentious, making it a comfortable spot for solo visitors, groups, and families during the day.

• Best Chips on Campus: Multiple reviews specifically call out the chips as the best in Kambri, a small but meaningful point of pride for the kitchen team.
• Campus Convenience: For ANU students and staff, the pub is an easy walk from anywhere on campus. It serves as a default meeting point and a go-to for impromptu meals.
• Consistent Quality: Patrons note they have visited for coffee many times and have never been disappointed, reflecting a commitment to consistency in both food and service.
• Card-Only Efficiency: The cashless system speeds up transactions and reduces wait times at the bar, especially during peak hours.

Join the Team

Badger & Co is more than a pub; it is a workplace that values energy, reliability, and a genuine interest in hospitality. The venue regularly recruits for front-of-house, kitchen, and bar roles, offering opportunities for students and Canberra locals looking for flexible hours. Interested candidates can visit the “Join the Team” page on the website to view current openings and submit an application.

Questions Visitors Ask

Being situated on a university campus, the pub fields a variety of questions from newcomers and visitors. Below are answers to some of the most common inquiries. For anything not covered, the contact page provides a direct form, and the phone line is answered during operating hours.

Do you accept cash?

No, Badger & Co is a completely cashless venue. All payments must be made by credit or debit card, including contactless and mobile wallet options.

Can I book a table for a large group?

Yes, group bookings and private functions can be arranged by contacting the team through the website or by calling 02 6147 5556. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during semester and on weekends.

Is there a vegetarian or vegan menu?

While the core menu is classic pub fare, the kitchen can usually accommodate dietary requests. Checking with staff when ordering is the best way to confirm current vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options.

What are the busiest times?

Lunchtime on weekdays and Friday evenings tend to be the busiest, especially during university term. Arriving early or later in the evening can mean shorter wait times for food and easier seating.

Can I bring my children?

Minors are welcome during the day when accompanied by a responsible adult, but the venue shifts to an 18+ environment later in the evening in line with liquor licensing requirements. Calling ahead to confirm current policy is advisable.