Courgette Restaurant

Courgette Restaurant brings an unmatched level of refinement and warmth to the Canberra dining scene. Nestled at 54 Marcus Clarke Street, this sophisticated venue has become synonymous with luxury Modern European cuisine, consistently earning accolades including 16 consecutive Chef Hat awards from the Sydney Morning Herald’s Good Food Guide. Under the guidance of Chef James Mussillon, the kitchen transforms exceptional seasonal ingredients into artistic plates, while the front-of-house team delivers polished, attentive service that makes every occasion feel truly special.

The setting mirrors the menu: elegant, intimate, and designed for connection. Whether guests choose the main dining room or one of the exclusive private spaces, they are enveloped in an atmosphere of soft lighting, fine linens, and considered detail. From the first amuse-bouche to the final petit four, Courgette crafts a complete sensory journey that appeals to long-time gastronomes and first-time visitors alike.

Chef James Mussillon & Culinary Philosophy

The driving force behind Courgette’s enduring success is owner and chef James Mussillon. His journey began in London, where he trained under Marco Pierre White, the first British chef to earn three Michelin stars, and later worked alongside Philip Howard at The Square and French icon Joël Robuchon. These formative years instilled a discipline and passion that remain evident in every dish.

Upon returning to Australia, James served as sous chef at Sydney’s Quay before striking out on his own. He chose Canberra to showcase his French-inspired Australian cuisine. At Courgette, his philosophy centers on fresh local produce and uncomplicated food prepared with precision. He believes in understanding each ingredient deeply—extracting its full flavor and letting the plate be teased rather than overwhelmed. This approach yields dishes that are luxurious yet approachable, marked by balanced flavors and stunning presentation.

Menus & Quality Wines

Courgette offers two main dining experiences: lunch and dinner, each with a menu that changes to reflect the best available produce. The lunch menu provides a lighter but equally elegant experience, perfect for business meetings or leisurely afternoon gatherings. The dinner menu unfolds into a more elaborate affair, showcasing multiple courses that highlight seafood, premium meats, and seasonal vegetables.

The wine program is a point of pride. The cellar features a carefully compiled selection of local and international bottles, with particular strength in Australian cool-climate regions and classic European appellations. The skilled sommeliers guide guests through pairing options, whether matching a butter-poached lobster with a crisp Chardonnay or a slow-cooked lamb rump with a structured Shiraz. For those seeking a fully curated experience, matching wine flights are available with the tasting menus.

Private Dining & Functions

Beyond the main restaurant, Courgette houses four distinct private rooms recently renovated to blend contemporary comfort with timeless sophistication. The Garden Room accommodates 35 to 46 guests, ideal for larger celebrations and cocktail-style events. The Cellar Room offers a cozy, atmospheric setting for 8 to 10 people. The Boardroom seats 14 to 20, while the Executive Boardroom suits 22 to 30. For intimate gatherings of 7 or 8, the Private Garden Room provides a secluded, sunlit space. Each room can be tailored for corporate lunches, milestone birthdays, wedding receptions, or product launches. The dedicated function manager assists with menu planning, AV setups, floral arrangements, and any special requests to ensure a seamless event.

Location, Directions & Parking

Courgette Restaurant occupies a prime position at 54 Marcus Clarke Street in the heart of Canberra City. The location is convenient for both locals and visitors, placing guests within walking distance of major hotels, the Australian National University, and cultural institutions. During the day, metered parking and multi-level car parks are available nearby. In the evening, free parking is available directly opposite the restaurant and along surrounding streets, making dinner reservations stress-free. Public transport options are excellent, with bus stops and light rail connections a short walk away, and clear street signage directing to the entrance.

Hours, Reservations & Gift Vouchers

Opening Hours

Lunch is served Monday through Saturday from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm. Dinner service runs from 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm on the same days. The restaurant is closed on Sundays, allowing the team to refresh for the week ahead. Bookings are strongly recommended due to high demand, especially for weekend evenings and private rooms.

Making a Reservation

Reservations can be made online via the official website or by calling (02) 6247 4042. The reservation system allows guests to specify dietary requirements and special occasions. Courgette’s staff are proactive about following up on these details to personalize the visit. Whether booking a table for two or an entire room, the process is straightforward and responsive.

Gift Vouchers

A Courgette gift certificate makes a memorable present for food lovers. Vouchers can be purchased in person at the restaurant from 11:00 am Monday to Saturday, or ordered online via the website’s dedicated form. They are valid for three years and can be applied toward any dining experience, function, or wine purchase. This flexibility makes them popular for birthdays, anniversaries, and corporate gifting.

Why Guests Choose Courgette

Repeat diners and first-timers consistently cite a few key attributes. The first is consistency: Courgette has maintained its one-hat status for 16 years, a testament to steady excellence. The service is polished yet genuine, with staff who remember preferences and anticipate needs without being intrusive. The ambiance strikes a rare balance between romantic and convivial, suiting both whispered proposals and business deals. The kitchen’s willingness to accommodate dietary needs—from vegetarian and gluten-free to more complex allergies—adds to its broad appeal. Finally, the private rooms offer a level of customization that few Canberra venues can match, making it a premier choice for milestone events.

Guests often remark on the value delivered by the set menus. The three-course offering provides generous portions and careful pacing, while the tasting menu allows the kitchen to stretch its creative muscles. The bread service, with its freshly baked rolls and cultured butter, is frequently mentioned as a highlight in online reviews.

Contact & Community

Courgette is known as an LGBTQ+-friendly establishment that welcomes all diners. The team actively engages with the community through social media, sharing behind-the-scenes kitchen moments, new dish rollouts, and seasonal wine features. Followers on Instagram and Facebook get early notice of special events, truffle dinners, and guest chef collaborations. For inquiries, the restaurant can be reached by phone at (02) 6247 4042, mobile at 0411 806 336, or email at info@courgette.com.au. Postal correspondence should be directed to 54 Marcus Clarke St, Canberra ACT 2601.

Parking and directions are clearly posted on the website, and the team is happy to assist with accommodation recommendations for out-of-town guests. Courgette represents not just a meal but a complete hospitality experience that continues to define fine dining in the Australian Capital Territory.