Olive at Hawker

When you step into Olive at Hawker in Hawker, Australian Capital Territory, you are greeted by a warm ambiance and the genuine spirit of Mediterranean hospitality. This boutique restaurant brings together robust Greek and Italian influences to create a dining experience that feels both authentic and refreshingly contemporary. Locals and visitors alike are drawn to its rustic charm, attentive service, and cuisine crafted with the freshest ingredients sourced to honor sun-soaked coasts and timeless traditions.

Owned and operated by John and Aleka, a duo with more than 30 years in the demanding hospitality industry, the restaurant is a true family endeavor. Their passion shines in every detail, from the gentle luminosity of the dining room to the curated selection of wines and handcrafted cocktails. Whether you are joining for an intimate dinner for two, a family celebration, or a relaxed lunch with friends, the team ensures every visit feels like coming home to a Mediterranean kitchen.

Mediterranean-Inspired Menu & Signature Dishes

The kitchen at Olive at Hawker is dedicated to celebrating the bold flavors of the Mediterranean with a modern Australian sensibility. Each plate is designed to transport you to the shores of Greece and Italy while celebrating local Canberra produce. The menu changes with the seasons but is anchored by beloved classics and innovative creations that keep regulars returning.

Starters & Share Plates

Begin your meal with a selection of mezze dips, grilled halloumi, or dolmades stuffed with fragrant rice and herbs. Share platters encourage lively conversation around the table, with cured olives, sundried tomatoes, and warm pita bread making every starter a small feast.

House Specialties

The slow-cooked lamb shoulder is a standout, meltingly tender and infused with aromatic herbs that echo the Greek taverna tradition. Seafood lovers rave about the snapper fillet, prepared simply to let the quality of the fish shine. Vegetarian guests delight in the moussaka, layered with eggplant, potato, and a rich béchamel sauce that delivers deep comfort in every bite. Pasta dishes bridge the Italian influence, with ribbons of pappardelle or delicate ravioli paired with seasonal sauces.

Desserts & Cocktails

Save room for traditional baklava drizzled with honey or a light, citrus-scented olive oil cake. The bar program mirrors the menu’s Mediterranean soul, offering both classic and signature cocktails infused with herbs, citrus, and spirits that complement the cuisine. A thoughtful wine list highlights varietals from Mediterranean regions as well as notable Australian vineyards.

Hours, Location & Directions

Olive at Hawker serves lunch and dinner from Tuesday to Saturday and is closed on Sunday and Monday. Lunch hours run from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM, while dinner service operates from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM. The restaurant is nestled in the Hawker Place shopping precinct at 2a/78 Hawker Place, Hawker, ACT 2614. Ample parking is available in the adjacent lot, and the venue is easily accessible by car or public transport from across Canberra.

Getting Here

If you are driving from the city center, head northwest on Belconnen Way, turn onto Hawker Place, and look for the welcoming signage. Bus routes serve the Hawker Shops interchange, placing the restaurant a short walk from the stop. Taxis and ride-sharing services can drop you directly at the entrance. For those using a GPS or map application, the address pins accurately to the restaurant’s front door.

Warm Ambiance & Stylish Interiors

Inside Olive at Hawker, exposed brick walls, soft lighting, and wooden accents create a rustic yet refined setting. Mediterranean blue tones punctuate the neutral palette, evoking the sea and sky without overwhelming the space. Tables are generously spaced, allowing for private conversations and comfortable movement. The gentle hum of curated music and the aroma of grilling meats and fresh herbs fill the air, setting the stage for a relaxed but polished meal.

Perfect for Every Occasion

Whether celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or simply a weeknight escape, the restaurant adapts to the mood. Intimate corner tables cater to romantic dinners, while larger groupings can be accommodated for family-style gatherings. The staff are known for their thoughtful touches, such as personalized dessert plates for special occasions and patient guidance through the menu for first-time visitors.

Services & Facilities

Olive at Hawker offers a range of flexible dining options to suit different needs. Dine-in guests enjoy the full Mediterranean ambiance alongside attentive tableside service. For those on the go, takeaway service replicates the same quality, with neatly packed dishes ready for pickup. An online ordering system through the restaurant’s website streamlines the takeaway process, allowing you to choose your preferred time slot.

• Dine-in Experience: Immersive Mediterranean atmosphere with full menu and wine service.
• Takeaway & Online Orders: Quick and convenient pickup via the online ordering platform.
• Reservation System: Online bookings accepted through the website, ensuring your table is ready.
• Gift Cards: Digital gift cards are available, making a perfect present for food lovers.
• Special Events & Group Dining: Enquire directly about private bookings or larger party arrangements.

Serving Canberra & Australian Capital Territory

While anchored in the Hawker community, Olive at Hawker draws guests from across northern Canberra and the broader ACT region. Its reputation as a destination for Mediterranean cuisine attracts diners from Belconnen, Gungahlin, and the Inner North who seek a refined yet welcoming alternative to the city’s bustling restaurant strips. The restaurant is proud to be part of the local Hawker business precinct, contributing to the village vibe that makes the area unique.

Canberra visitors staying in nearby hotels often seek out Olive at Hawker for a memorable dinner after a day exploring the capital’s attractions. The restaurant’s proximity to the Australian Institute of Sport, the University of Canberra, and the scenic Lake Ginninderra adds to its appeal for both business and leisure travelers looking for genuine flavors and local charm.

Why Choose Olive at Hawker

Guests consistently praise the approachable elegance of the food, the unwavering commitment to hospitality, and the value that matches the quality on the plate. At a price point of 40 to 60 Australian dollars per person, the experience strikes a balance between an everyday luxury and a special occasion destination.

• Family-Run Care: Owners John and Aleka personally oversee every aspect, ensuring consistency and warmth.
• Fresh, Honest Flavors: Dishes rely on premium produce, simple techniques, and generous portions.
• Repeat Patron Favorite: A 4.6-star rating from 747 reviews reflects a deep and loyal customer base.
• Inviting Atmosphere: A comfortable blend of rustic charm and modern Mediterranean style.
• Convenient Location: Easy parking, clear directions, and a straightforward booking process.

Questions Visitors Frequently Ask

Many guests wonder about dietary accommodations, and Olive at Hawker is happy to adjust dishes for gluten-free, vegetarian, and other dietary needs with advance notice. The menu naturally highlights Mediterranean patterns of eating, rich in olive oil, vegetables, legumes, and lean proteins, making it a welcoming kitchen for varied preferences. Families with children are always welcomed, and the staff are adept at making younger diners feel special.

Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for Friday and Saturday evenings, as the restaurant’s intimate size means tables fill quickly. Walk-ins are accommodated whenever possible, but a quick online booking ensures you won’t miss out on the experience. For those who can’t dine in, the takeaway service delivers the same high standards right to your home, making an excellent midweek treat.