Bar Beirut

Bar Beirut brings a vibrant slice of modern Middle Eastern culture to the heart of Canberra’s CBD. Tucked away at 25 Garema Place, this is not just a restaurant or a bar — it is an experience that blends exceptional Lebanese-inspired cuisine with world-class cocktails and genuine hospitality. The energy inside is warm and electric, with a design that balances moody, atmospheric lighting and plush banquette seating to create an environment perfect for a date night, an after-work gathering or a celebratory meal with friends. From the moment you step inside, the aromas of freshly grilled meats, za’atar and exotic spices announce that you are in for something special.

The team at Bar Beirut is dedicated to redefining the way Canberra experiences Middle Eastern hospitality. The menu draws from centuries of culinary tradition across Lebanon and the broader region, then filters every dish through a contemporary lens. The result is a menu that feels both authentic and surprising, with generous share plates, beautifully charred skewers and decadent dips that are miles away from standard takeaway. It is this combination of refined cooking, creative mixology and immersive atmosphere that has earned the venue a loyal following and recognition as one of Canberra’s premier destinations.

What Makes Bar Beirut Different

Bar Beirut occupies a unique space in Canberra’s dining landscape. It is hard to categorise with a single label because it seamlessly combines several concepts under one roof. It is first and foremost a restaurant delivering full, sit-down meals, but it is also a high-energy bar where cocktails are treated as seriously as the food. Add in the regular belly dancing performances and you have something that defies easy comparison. That fusion of elements creates a night-out experience that feels layered and memorable.

Unlike many venues, Bar Beirut actively encourages sharing. Portions are designed to be passed around the table, which transforms a meal into a communal event. The menu is built for exploration, inviting guests to try a little of everything — from raw oysters with Lebanese mignonette to wood-fired breads and slow-cooked lamb. This shared approach, combined with a carefully curated drinks list, makes every visit feel like a celebration.

The Menu

The kitchen at Bar Beirut is anchored by the flavours of Lebanon but draws inspiration from across the Levant. Expect smoky baba ghanoush, creamy hummus, tangy tabbouleh and spiced labneh alongside more robust main dishes. The restaurant is known for sourcing premium Australian produce and treating it with Middle Eastern techniques, including wood-fired cooking and long, slow marination.

• Classic dips and mezze: Hummus, baba ghanoush, labneh and muhammara served with freshly baked pita.
• Raw bar selections: Freshly shucked oysters with a bright, citrusy dressing and other seafood starters.
• Charcoal-grilled skewers: Chicken, lamb and kafta prepared over an open flame.
• Slow-cooked mains: Lamb shoulder, braised with aromatic spices until fall-apart tender.
• Vegetable-centric dishes: Chargrilled eggplant, roasted cauliflower with tahini and pomegranate.

Signature Dishes

While the entire menu is designed to impress, several plates have developed a near-cult following among regulars. The oysters are consistently mentioned in reviews as a must-order starter, arriving chilled, clean, and perfectly dressed. King mackerel is another standout, often highlighted for its balance of rich fish flavour and bright, citrusy accompaniments. The lamb dishes, whether as slow-cooked shoulder or grilled cutlets, are treated with obvious care and a deep understanding of spice. Vegetarians are not an afterthought here; the eggplant dishes and fresh tabbouleh are given as much attention as the proteins, resulting in a genuinely balanced menu.

Cocktails and Drinks

The bar program at Bar Beirut deserves its own spotlight. Widely regarded as one of the best cocktail destinations in Canberra, the team crafts drinks that marry familiar spirits with unexpected Middle Eastern ingredients. Think preserved lemon, rose water, cardamom, sumac and pomegranate molasses working their way into both classic and original recipes.

The Blood Orange Negroni has become a signature, offering a bittersweet, citrus-forward twist on the Italian classic. Other popular choices include the Poke Martini and a rotating selection of seasonal cocktails that highlight fresh market produce. For those who prefer wine, the list is thoughtfully constructed with a focus on Mediterranean varietals and local Canberra-region producers who complement the food. Non-alcoholic options are equally considered, with house-made sodas and alcohol-free spritzes available.

Atmosphere and Entertainment

Bar Beirut is known as much for its atmosphere as its food. The soundtrack leans towards deep house and upbeat global rhythms, keeping the energy up without overwhelming conversation. Every Saturday night, the experience is elevated by live belly dancing. Performers move between tables, engaging diners and adding an authentic, celebratory element that connects directly to the cultural roots of the cuisine. The interaction between the dancers and the audience is part of what makes Saturday bookings so sought-after.

The space itself is moody and intimate. The alleyway entrance along Garema Place gives the venue a hidden, speakeasy feel that contrasts with the warmth inside. Seating ranges from low lounge-style tables near the bar to more traditional dining setups further back, giving guests the option to choose their preferred style of evening. The venue’s popularity means that walk-ins are possible on quieter weeknights, but reservations are strongly advised, especially for Saturday nights and larger groups.

Why Canberra Locals Choose Bar Beirut

Word of mouth has positioned Bar Beirut as a standout option in Canberra’s competitive hospitality scene. With a rating based on hundreds of reviews praising the consistency of both food and service, it attracts a diverse crowd that includes hospitality workers, couples seeking a romantic night out, and groups celebrating milestones. The mid-range pricing — generally reported between 40 and 120 dollars per person — reflects the quality of ingredients and the full-service experience, making it a popular choice for those who want an elevated night out without the formality of fine dining.

Customers consistently note the knowledgeable and welcoming service. Staff are trained not only on the menu but on the story behind the food and drinks, so they can guide first-time guests through the share-plate concept and make recommendations based on preferences and dietary needs. This level of care, combined with the entertainment factor, means that many guests become repeat visitors, bringing friends and colleagues along with them.

Location, Hours and Reservations

Situated at 25 Garema Place in Civic, Bar Beirut is easy to reach on foot, by public transport or by rideshare. The restaurant is positioned in a lively pedestrian-friendly area of the city centre, close to several major hotels and parking options. This central location makes it a convenient choice for both locals and visitors staying in the Canberra CBD.

• Address: 25 Garema Place, Canberra ACT 2601
• Phone: +61 2 5114 3545
• Opening hours: Monday and Sunday closed. Tuesday to Saturday from late afternoon until 2:00 am. Detailed hours vary by day; always check the official website or OpenTable for the most current session times.

Booking is available directly through the official website and via OpenTable. Given the venue’s reputation, especially for Saturday night belly dancing sessions, advance reservations are recommended for guaranteed seating. Walk-in guests are always welcomed when capacity allows, and the bar area often has space for smaller parties who want to enjoy cocktails and a few share plates without a full dinner booking.