The Dock

The Dock is an award-winning sports pub and family restaurant located right on the Kingston Foreshore in Australian Capital Territory. We are a community-minded and locally owned venue that prides itself on a welcoming, friendly atmosphere. Whether you are catching the big game, enjoying a meal with family, listening to live music, or just catching up with mates, The Dock has you covered. With a 4.3-star rating from over 1,785 Google Maps reviews, locals consistently praise the spacious, green surroundings and the relaxed, inviting vibe that suits everything from a casual weekday lunch to a lively weekend night out.

The Dock is known for its versatility — it is equally a place to bring the kids for an early dinner as it is a spot to enjoy a crafted cocktail and live acoustic set later in the evening. With a menu featuring pub classics, daily specials, and an emphasis on fresh, satisfying food, the venue has built a loyal following in Kingston. The venue also proudly partners with community initiatives like Running for Resilience and the ACT Brumbies, cementing its place as a true local hub on the foreshore.

Menu Highlights at The Dock

The culinary offerings at The Dock center on hearty, well-executed pub fare that keeps regulars coming back. The kitchen is known for its burgers, steaks, and pizzas, with particular attention paid to generous portions and consistent quality. The menu balances classic comfort food with lighter options, ensuring there is something for everyone in a group.

• Benny's Big Burger: A signature beef burger that headlines the weekly $20 Thursday special, paired with chips.
• Fardy's Fried Chicken Burger: Another Thursday highlight, this crispy chicken burger is a crowd favorite among Google reviewers.
• Chicken Schnitzel: Available as a $20 special on Wednesdays for both lunch and dinner, a classic done right.
• Pizza: A popular menu category, with many reviewers mentioning the pizza in their feedback. The Dock offers a gluten-free base option, though some diners note the texture can be polarizing.
• Chicken Wings & Salt 'n' Pepper Squid: Tuesday dinner specials feature 2-for-1 deals on these shared plates, ideal for groups watching the game.
• Steak & Seafood: Steaks and other pub staples feature regularly, often paired with the venue's range of tap beers and wines.

The Dining Experience at The Dock

The Dock offers a generous, leafy outdoor area that creates a calm, inviting atmosphere during the day and transforms into a vibrant social hub at night. A Google Maps reviewer described it as "spacious and surrounded by plenty of greenery, which gives it a quiet and inviting atmosphere even during the daytime." This blend of indoor and outdoor spaces makes it suitable for everything from a sunny Sunday spritz session to a cozy winter trivia night.

The venue welcomes diners with dine-in, takeaway, and delivery options, though the search listing notes no delivery service is available — so it is best to check directly with The Dock for current off-premise options. Reservations are accepted, and booking a table in advance is recommended, especially when live music or major sports events are scheduled.

Events & Weekly Specials

The Dock is more than just a restaurant: it is a destination for entertainment and community events. Live acoustic music sessions run every weekend, with acts performing Friday evenings, Saturday afternoons into late night, and Sunday afternoons. A rotating roster of local Canberra musicians curated by Moku Music & Entertainment keeps the schedule fresh. The Dock also hosts a Dock Trivia League with free entry, weekly prizes, and a $1,000 bar tab for season winners. Other weekly rituals include Happy Hour (Tuesday–Friday, 5-6 PM), Shake It Hour on Friday and Saturday nights with 2-for-$25 cocktails, and Sunday Spritz all day.

Customer Reviews & Ratings at The Dock

The Dock holds a strong 4.3-star rating on Google Maps from 1,785 reviews, reflecting a broad base of satisfied customers. Recurring praise in the feedback highlights the fantastic location on the foreshore, the relaxed and spacious setting, and the quality of drinks — with one reviewer calling the Guinness "excellent, velvety-smooth." The live music, family-friendly vibe, and friendly service are also common themes.

However, not all feedback is uniformly glowing. One diner mentioned the gluten-free pizza base was "doughy and looked grey," despite enjoying the toppings. This kind of specific feedback is helpful for guests with dietary preferences to keep in mind when ordering. Overall, the reviews paint a picture of a reliable, community-focused pub that delivers a consistently enjoyable experience, particularly for groups, families, and sports fans.

The Dock in Kingston, Australian Capital Territory

The Dock is situated at 7/81 Giles Street, right on the scenic Kingston Foreshore in ACT. This prime waterfront location is a major drawcard, placing the restaurant in the heart of one of Canberra's most vibrant dining and leisure precincts. The area is known for its pedestrian-friendly boardwalks, water views, and mix of restaurants, bars, and recreational spaces. The Dock is easily identifiable within Green Square on the foreshore, making it a convenient meeting point.

Accessibility is straightforward, with the venue being wheelchair accessible and welcoming to all guests. Public transport options, walking, and cycling routes make it simple to reach the venue from across Canberra. For those driving, nearby parking is available in the Kingston Foreshore area, though street parking can be busy during peak times.

Hours, Reservations & Contact for The Dock

The Dock operates with extended hours to cover lunch through late-night entertainment. As listed on Google Maps, the current opening hours are:

• Tuesday: 4 PM – 10:30 PM
• Wednesday & Thursday: 11:30 AM – 11 PM
• Friday & Saturday: 11:30 AM – 12:30 AM
• Sunday: 11:30 AM – 10:30 PM
• Monday: Closed

Reservations can be made online through the Now Book It platform linked on the venue's website, or by calling (02) 6239 6333. For general inquiries and function bookings, the email address is bookings@thedockkingston.com.au. The Dock is reported as LGBTQ+-friendly and offers a welcoming environment for all patrons.

Common Questions About The Dock

What are The Dock's opening hours?

The Dock is open Tuesday from 4 PM to 10:30 PM, Wednesday to Thursday from 11:30 AM to 11 PM, Friday and Saturday from 11:30 AM to 12:30 AM, and Sunday from 11:30 AM to 10:30 PM. It is closed on Mondays.

Does The Dock offer delivery or takeaway?

The Dock provides dine-in and takeaway services. The search listing indicates no delivery service is available, so it is best to contact the venue or visit their website for the most current information on off-premise dining options.

Is there a gluten-free menu at The Dock?

The Dock offers pizza with a gluten-free base. However, some customer reviews note that the texture may not appeal to everyone. Patrons with dietary requirements are encouraged to speak with the staff when ordering.

Do I need a reservation at The Dock?

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, trivia nights, and when live music is scheduled. You can book a table online through The Dock's website or by calling (02) 6239 6333.

Is The Dock family-friendly?

Yes, The Dock is a family restaurant and sports pub that welcomes guests of all ages. Its spacious layout and outdoor area make it suitable for family outings, and the menu includes options that appeal to children and adults alike.

Does The Dock show live sports?

As a self-described sports pub, The Dock broadcasts major sporting events. It is also a proud partner of the ACT Brumbies, and during the 2026 season, patrons can catch a free Brumbies Bus from the venue to GIO Stadium for home games.

Why Choose The Dock on the Kingston Foreshore

The Dock stands out as more than just a pub — it is a genuine community gathering place that combines quality pub dining, live entertainment, and a stunning waterfront setting. Its commitment to local initiatives like Running for Resilience demonstrates a venue that cares about its patrons' wellbeing beyond the plate and pint. With consistent praise for its atmosphere, reasonable prices (reported as $20–40 per person), and varied weekly specials, it offers excellent value for a day or night out in Kingston. To explore more local family restaurants and pubs, compare your options on Ilistify and find the perfect fit for your next outing.