Kingston Hotel

Affectionately known to locals as “The Kingo,” the Kingston Hotel is an iconic Canberra pub and family-friendly dining destination situated at 73 Canberra Ave in Griffith, ACT. Since its establishment, the hotel has woven itself into the fabric of the local community, offering a warm, welcoming atmosphere that blends the charm of a traditional Australian pub with the diverse culinary expectations of a modern family restaurant. Unlike a standard pub that may only cater to one demographic, the Kingston Hotel has been thoughtfully designed to accommodate everyone — from families with young children seeking a relaxed lunch to groups of friends gathering for a Friday night dinner in the garden.

Spread across multiple distinct spaces, the venue provides a variety of experiences under one roof. The Public Bar remains a classic gathering spot, while The Grill and Maddies restaurant areas offer more structured dining with dedicated menus. The expansive garden and patio spaces are particularly popular during Canberra’s warmer months, providing a semi-alfresco experience that’s hard to beat. For those on the go, the Kingston Takeaway ensures the hotel’s signature dishes can be enjoyed at home, and the on-site Bottleshop is a convenient resource for take-home beverages. This multi-faceted approach has cemented the Kingston Hotel not just as a place to eat, but as a genuine community hub in Griffith.

Menu Highlights at the Kingston Hotel

The culinary experience at the Kingston Hotel is built around hearty, satisfying pub fare executed with care. The menu is well-known for its interactive “Cook Your Own Steaks” concept, a signature offering that invites diners to grill their chosen cut to personal perfection on a communal barbecue. This experience is a major drawcard, turning a meal into a memorable social activity. For those who prefer the kitchen to do the work, the grill menu also features expertly prepared steaks, including a well-regarded sirloin, cooked to order and served with classic accompaniments.

Beyond the steaks, the menu excels in comfort food that pleases all ages. The Pork Spare Ribs are a standout, frequently mentioned for their generous portion and rich, sticky glaze. The Cattleman’s cutlet and chips is another long-time favorite, representing the unpretentious, high-quality pub meals that define the hotel’s food philosophy. The Kingston Takeaway menu mirrors these highlights, ensuring the most popular dishes are available for a quality dinner at home, complete with the same attention to flavor and portion size as the dine-in experience.

The Dining Experience & Atmosphere

The Kingston Hotel masterfully creates distinct moods within its different spaces. The Public Bar has the lively, ambient buzz of a classic Australian pub, with high tables, bar stools, and screens for live sports. It’s the perfect spot for a casual drink and a quick meal. In contrast, The Grill and Maddies restaurant areas offer a more composed, sit-down dining experience with dedicated tables and a focus on the meal itself. The garden area bridges the two, offering a relaxed, sun-drenched atmosphere during the day that transitions into a warmly lit, festive space in the evening, often filled with the chatter of large family groups and friends.

According to Google Maps reviews and customer feedback, the venue holds a strong 4.3-star rating based on over 2,200 reviews. Patrons consistently highlight the family-friendly atmosphere, the generous portion sizes, and the unique fun of the cook-your-own steak concept. One recurring theme in reviews is the venue’s ability to comfortably host larger groups, making it a go-to for birthday dinners and casual celebrations. Reviewers also note the efficient and friendly service, particularly during the busy weekend dinner services. The availability of free on-site parking, which is often highlighted as a major convenience in the Canberra area, also draws positive mentions from guests driving in from surrounding suburbs.

Kingston Hotel in Griffith, Canberra

Located in the heart of Griffith, the Kingston Hotel sits prominently on Canberra Avenue, one of the area’s main thoroughfares. The suburb itself is one of Canberra’s oldest, known for its tree-lined streets, heritage-listed sites, and a vibrant mix of cafes, shops, and restaurants. The hotel is just minutes away from the bustling Manuka and Kingston shopping and dining precincts, placing it squarely within a highly walkable and desirable part of the city. Its proximity to landmarks like Manuka Oval means it’s a natural pre- and post-event gathering point during cricket and AFL games.

The venue is fully accessible, with a wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking, reflecting its commitment to being a space for everyone. The free on-site parking lot is a significant advantage, removing the usual urban parking stress from the visit. For families, the venue is noted as kid-friendly, and the spacious layout, including the garden, means there is room for prams and young children. The overall neighborhood context and the hotel’s physical accessibility contribute heavily to its reputation as an easy, convenient, and welcoming destination for all ages.

Hours, Reservations & Contact

The Kingston Hotel operates with varied hours across its different services to cater to a wide range of needs. The Public Bar opens daily at 10:00 AM, offering a consistent spot for an early lunch or afternoon drink. The main restaurant kitchens have split lunch and dinner services: The Grill operates Monday through Sunday from 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM (extending to 9:30 PM on Wednesday through Saturday), while Maddies follows a noon-to-3:00 PM and 5:00 PM-to-9:00 PM (or 9:30 PM) schedule. The on-site Kingston Takeaway is open daily from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM (9:30 PM on Friday and Saturday), and the Bottleshop aligns closely with the bar, opening at 10:00 AM and closing between 9:00 PM and 11:00 PM depending on the day.

For those looking to secure a table, online reservations are available directly through the hotel’s website, which is the recommended method, especially for dinner bookings on Friday and Saturday evenings. The website also facilitates function inquiries, making it easy to book private spaces for larger celebrations or corporate events. Contact can be made via phone at 02 6295 0123 for general inquiries, or 02 6232 6026 specifically for the Takeaway. The hotel’s email address, info@kingstonhotel.com.au, is the primary channel for non-urgent requests and function planning. Whether booking a meal for two or organizing a large group gathering, the team at the Kingston Hotel encourages advance bookings to ensure a seamless experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Kingston Hotel take reservations?

Yes, the Kingston Hotel accepts online reservations for its restaurant areas, including The Grill and Maddies. Bookings can be made directly through the official website, and it is highly recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

What are the operating hours for the Kingston Takeaway?

The Kingston Takeaway is open Monday to Thursday and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with extended hours until 9:30 PM on Friday and Saturday. You can call the Takeaway directly on 02 6232 6026 to place an order.

Is the Kingston Hotel family-friendly?

Absolutely. The venue is well-known for being family-friendly, with a spacious garden, a diverse menu that appeals to children, and a relaxed atmosphere that welcomes guests of all ages. High chairs and room for prams are available.

What is the “Cook Your Own Steaks” experience?

This signature offering allows diners to select their preferred cut of steak and grill it to their liking on a communal barbecue. The Kingston Hotel provides the steak, sides, and instruction, creating a fun, interactive dining experience.

Is there parking available at the hotel?

The Kingston Hotel provides a free, on-site car park for all patrons. This is a frequently praised feature in customer reviews, as it offers convenient and cost-free parking in a busy area of Griffith.

Does the Kingston Hotel have vegan or vegetarian options?

While famous for its steaks and ribs, the Kingston Hotel’s menus typically include a selection of salads and other plant-based dishes. For specific dietary requirements or the most current menu details, it’s best to contact the hotel directly or check their website.

Can I buy alcohol to take home from the Kingston Hotel?

Yes, the on-site Bottleshop offers a wide range of wine, beer, and spirits for take-away purchase. Its operating hours are generous, with later closing times on Thursday through Saturday.