Mirna

Mirna brings a unique culinary presence to Canberra's inner north, operating as the dedicated food truck for the Australian Croatian Club. Nestled at 68 McCaughey Street in Turner, this bustling bistro on wheels and its adjacent beer garden have quickly become a local favorite for those seeking hearty, authentic flavors. While the club itself has been a community cornerstone since 1969, Mirna represents the next generation's vision: a welcoming, casual dining spot where all Australians can experience traditional Croatian cuisine made with care and natural ingredients.

The food truck operates primarily on Friday nights, transforming the club's outdoor area into a lively destination. Google Maps reviewers have rewarded Mirna with an impressive 4.8-star rating based on 23 reviews, praising everything from the perfectly textured toasties to the golden, crunchy fries. It's a place where the aromas of garlic, paprika, and slow-cooked brisket mingle with the sounds of laughter and good company, a true hidden gem just a short stroll from the O'Connor shops.

Menu Highlights at Mirna

The menu at Mirna focuses on a select offering of Croatian and comfort-food classics, executed exceptionally well. The star items, frequently mentioned in customer feedback, include the Reuben sandwich, packed with flavorful brisket, and their renowned toasties, which one reviewer described as having a perfect ratio of filling to cheese to bread. The pesto toastie is another standout, offering a delicious twist on a simple favorite.

For those craving something more substantial, the brisket with mac and cheese provides a rich, savory experience, with the subtle truffle flavor in the mac and cheese earning specific praise. The hand-cut fries are a must-try side, consistently noted for being crispy, fresh, and cooked to golden perfection. The Shintaro sandwich is another option for a quick, satisfying bite. To wash it all down, Mirna serves a well-regarded coffee, a testament to the team's attention to detail in every aspect of the menu.

Customer Reviews & Ratings

Mirna holds an outstanding 4.8-star rating on Google Maps, a figure that reflects a consistently excellent customer experience. The 23 reviews paint a picture of a food truck that over-delivers on quality and service. Reviewers consistently mention the high standard of the food, with the toasties being called "by far the best I've ever eaten" by one enthusiastic patron. The brisket and mac and cheese, with its unexpected and delightful truffle note, is another recurring highlight.

The service from the food truck team is another common thread in the positive feedback. Customers use words like "brilliant" and "super friendly" to describe the staff, creating a welcoming atmosphere that complements the delicious food. Even a reviewer who had a mixed experience with the Shintaro sandwich's sauce still considered Mirna "a nice place for a quick bite." The combination of high-quality, made-to-order food and a warm, personable team makes the 4.8-star rating feel well-deserved and signals a business that genuinely cares about each plate it serves.

What Diners Are Saying

• Superb Toasties: "The toasties were by far the best I've ever eaten," raved one local guide, a sentiment echoed by many who praise the perfect cheese-to-bread ratio.
• Excellent Brisket: "Wir hatten Brisket, Mac and Cheese und Pesto-Toasties," shared another reviewer, highlighting the star protein and the delightful truffle flavor in the mac and cheese.
• Crispy Fries & More: "The fries here were great. They were so crunchy and totally fresh," noted a reviewer, underlining that even the sides are prepared with exceptional care.
• Friendly Vibes: "The food truck guys are super friendly," commented a diner, capturing the welcoming spirit that keeps people returning to the club grounds.

Mirna in the Turner & O'Connor Area

Mirna is located at the Australian Croatian Club, a fixture at 68 McCaughey Street in Turner, ACT. The club is affectionately known as the "O'Connor Dom" by locals due to its close proximity to the O'Connor shopping precinct, making it an easy and familiar spot for people across Canberra's inner north. This central, yet slightly tucked-away location adds to the feeling of discovering a genuine secret spot. The food truck and its outdoor beer garden create a relaxed, semi-alfresco dining experience that complements the casual, friendly service.

The venue is well-connected by public transport and offers the convenience of free on-site parking, a significant benefit in Canberra's inner suburbs. For those arriving by bike or on a relaxed walk, the area is quiet and accessible. Inside the club, two function rooms with dance floors and two bars are available, but on a Friday night, the action is outside with Mirna, where the atmosphere is family-friendly and unpretentious. As a wheelchair-accessible location, it ensures the entire community can enjoy the food and festivities.

Hours, Takeaway & Contact

Mirna operates on a focused schedule, primarily serving dinner on Friday nights from 5:30 pm until late. This single-night service makes it a special weekly event for its regulars, creating a vibrant and anticipated start to the weekend. During this time, the food truck is fully operational, offering both dine-in in the adjacent beer garden and takeaway options for those who prefer to enjoy their meal at home or on the go. Mirna is not open on other days for regular service, as the club's full facilities are available for private functions and events.

Due to the limited service window, arriving early is a good idea to avoid missing out on the most popular menu items. To contact Mirna directly, you can call the Australian Croatian Club at +61 2 6248 8782 or email info@australiancroatianclub.com.au. The price level is rated as budget-friendly, at $1–20 per person, making it an affordable and high-quality dining option in Canberra.

Common Questions

When is Mirna open to the public?

Mirna serves dinner every Friday night from 5:30 pm until late. It is available on other days only for pre-booked private functions.

What type of food does Mirna serve?

Mirna specializes in traditional Croatian cuisine and comfort food favorites. Popular items include the Reuben sandwich with brisket, toasties, mac and cheese, and hand-cut fries.

Does Mirna offer takeaway?

Yes, Mirna offers a takeaway option so you can enjoy their food from the comfort of your own home, in addition to dine-in service in the outdoor beer garden.

What is the price range at Mirna?

The price per person is estimated to be between $1 and $20, making it a very affordable dining choice.

Where exactly is Mirna located?

Mirna operates from the Australian Croatian Club at 68 McCaughey Street in Turner, ACT. The club is located near the O'Connor shops and offers free on-site parking.

How can I book a table for Friday night dinner?

You can contact the club directly by phone at +61 2 6248 8782 or via email at info@australiancroatianclub.com.au to inquire about booking a table for Mirna's Friday night service.

From the perfectly crisped fries to the standout Reuben sandwich, Mirna delivers a memorable taste of Croatian hospitality right in the heart of Turner. Its community roots, combined with a 4.8-star reputation for friendly service and exceptional food, make it a must-visit weekend destination. Explore Mirna's profile and compare it with other great dining options on Ilistify to plan your next meal out.