The Boat House

Welcome to The Boat House, an award-winning fine dining destination nestled on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin in Barton, Australian Capital Territory. Recognized for its stunning waterfront views and exceptional culinary offerings, The Boat House provides an intimate and memorable experience for every guest. Whether you are celebrating a special milestone, hosting a private event, or simply seeking an elegant evening out, the restaurant's warm and inviting atmosphere sets the perfect stage. The setting in Grevillea Park allows diners to escape the city's pace and enjoy a serene lakeside retreat.

Since establishing itself as a premier venue in Canberra, The Boat House has been synonymous with refined cuisine and attentive service. The dedicated team combines locally sourced ingredients with innovative cooking techniques to craft dishes that are both visually stunning and deeply satisfying. The menu changes with the seasons to take advantage of the freshest produce, ensuring each visit offers something new and exciting. From the moment you arrive, the panoramic views of the lake and the beautifully appointed dining room create an unforgettable backdrop for your meal.

Services & Facilities

The Boat House is more than just a restaurant; it is a full-service hospitality venue designed for a variety of occasions. The property features distinct areas tailored for different experiences, all unified by exceptional quality and attention to detail. The core services offered include:

• Fine Dining Restaurant: An a la carte and degustation experience with a focus on modern Australian cuisine, served in the main dining room with floor-to-ceiling lake views.
• Weddings: The venue is a celebrated location for lakefront wedding ceremonies and receptions, with dedicated coordinators to bring your vision to life.
• Private Dining: Exclusive spaces for intimate gatherings and celebrations, offering tailored menus and a secluded atmosphere.
• Conferences & Events: Fully equipped for corporate meetings, presentations, and special events, blending professional amenities with lakeside tranquility.
• Gift Cards: Thoughtfully designed gift cards that give recipients access to an exceptional fine dining experience, perfect for any occasion.

What We Offer

Curated Dining Experiences

Every service at The Boat House is crafted to exceed expectations. The culinary team presents a contemporary menu that highlights the best of regional produce, seafood, and premium meats. A carefully curated wine list complements the dishes, featuring local Canberra district wines alongside international labels. The presentation is as much a part of the experience as the flavor, with each plate arriving as a work of art. Dietary requirements are accommodated with creativity, ensuring all guests can enjoy a full and inclusive experience.

Event Hosting Expertise

Planning a special event at The Boat House is a seamless process, supported by a professional events team known for being organized, warm, and highly competent. The venue is sought after for weddings, where couples can exchange vows with the lake and parkland as their backdrop. For corporate clients, the space transforms into a sophisticated environment for productive meetings and networking. The team manages every detail, from custom menus and floral arrangements to audiovisual setup, delivering a truly high-end service.

Why Customers Choose Us

Guests return to The Boat House and recommend it to others for several compelling reasons. The combination of a world-class location, polished service, and outstanding food creates a reputation that stands out in Canberra's competitive dining scene. Visitor reviews consistently highlight the restaurant as a top choice for romantic dinners, marriage proposals, and milestone anniversaries. The peaceful, romantic atmosphere makes it particularly suited for couples, while the professionalism of the staff ensures groups and events run flawlessly.

The venue is also proudly LGBTQ+ friendly and welcoming to all guests, fostering an environment of warmth and inclusivity. The focus on creating a relaxed yet elegant setting means diners feel comfortable and valued, whether they are wearing formal attire or smart casual. The consistent feedback about excellent food and service, combined with the breathtaking sunset views over Lake Burley Griffin, solidifies the venue as a bucket-list dining experience in Australia's capital.

Serving Barton & Australian Capital Territory

Situated in the heart of Barton, The Boat House is a defining feature of the local hospitality landscape. Its location within Grevillea Park, just off Menindee Drive, makes it easily accessible from Parliament House, Kingston, and the broader Canberra region, while still feeling like a secluded escape. The restaurant attracts a discerning clientele from all over the ACT and beyond, including interstate visitors looking for a luxury dining experience. The proximity to the lake allows for pre-dinner walks and stunning photo opportunities, enhancing the overall visit.

As a key part of the Barton and Canberra community, The Boat House actively participates in the area's culinary culture. It serves as a benchmark for fine dining in the Australian Capital Territory, often mentioned alongside other prestigious Canberra establishments. The venue’s ability to combine a gourmet restaurant, a premier wedding location, and a corporate event space into one riverside address makes it a unique and valuable asset to the region. Locals and tourists alike consider it a must-visit destination for high-end dining.

Hours, Location & Directions

The Boat House operates with hours designed for lunch and dinner services, though it is closed on select days and opens for dinner from Thursday onward according to the latest schedules. To secure your table, particularly for weekend dinner and sunset slots, advance bookings are highly recommended. The full address is Grevillea Park, Menindee Dr, Barton ACT 2600, Australia. The venue is easily located within the parkland, offering ample parking for guests arriving by car.

For those using public transport, routes serving the Barton area provide convenient access to the restaurant. The area is also bicycle-friendly, with paths connecting to the lake's cycle network. If you are driving, simply follow Menindee Drive into Grevillea Park where you will find the restaurant positioned directly on the waterfront. For precise navigation to the entry, using the Google Maps link or searching for "The Boat House Barton" will guide you straight to this exceptional dining destination.