Snapper & Co.

Snapper & Co. is an iconic lakeside destination in Yarralumla, Australian Capital Territory, redefining the classic fish and chips experience with a refined, contemporary edge. Perched on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin at the Southern Cross Yacht Club, this vibrant eatery invites guests to embrace lazy days and chilled-out vibes, whether they're stopping by for a quick bite, a leisurely lunch, or sunset drinks. Having undergone an exciting transformation, Snapper & Co. now offers a multifaceted venue where the region's best fish and chips meets an elevated food and beverage program, all set against panoramic lakefront views.

The restaurant is built around three distinct spaces, each offering a different way to enjoy its lakeside setting. The Deck is a newly built, elevated dining area that provides a premium experience with table service during the warmer months and a cozy fireplace ambiance when the temperature drops. The Courtyard is an expanded outdoor hub where guests can settle in with good food, cocktails, and a welcoming, social atmosphere. For those who prefer a more relaxed and informal outing, The Lawns offer a casual, picnic-style setting where families and friends can spread out and enjoy their favorite fish and chips or a shared charcuterie board directly on the grass, taking in the fresh air and waterfront scenery.

Food is at the heart of the Snapper & Co. experience, with a menu that centers on what the restaurant does best. The signature Fish and Chips has earned a reputation as the standout dish in the region, featuring fresh fish encased in a perfectly crispy, golden batter that is never greasy. A dedicated Kids Fish and Chips portion ensures younger diners are happily catered for. Beyond these classics, the kitchen sources quality seafood for a range of dishes, including a baked Snapper prepared with Asian-inspired flavors that one reviewer singled out as a memorable specialty. Seasonal small plates, shareable charcuterie boards, and a rotating selection of soups and toasties during the winter months keep the offering fresh and dynamic.

The bar program is an equally important part of the identity of Snapper & Co., with a focus on drinks that complement the lakeside setting. Guests can choose from a curated wine list that features a Wine of the Month, a selection of chilled beers, and a cocktail menu designed for long afternoon sessions. The atmosphere is unpretentious and cheerful, blending the casual spirit of a classic fish and chip shop with the polish of a modern Australian restaurant. The sound of clinking glasses and the hum of conversation from families, groups of friends, and cyclists stopping in mid-ride creates a warm, energetic backdrop every day of the week.

Menu Highlights at Snapper & Co.

The kitchen at Snapper & Co. has earned its reputation by focusing on quality seafood, generous portions, and consistent execution. Its most beloved dish is the classic Fish and Chips, which has attracted consistent praise for its fresh, flaky fish and crisp, light batter. Reviews across Google Maps repeatedly describe the dish as "absolutely the best fish and chips in Canberra," noting that the coating is "perfectly crispy outside and tender inside" and the chips are "golden brown and crunchy, not at all greasy." The dedicated Kids Fish and Chips makes this the perfect spot for a family meal.

Alongside the signature battered fish, the menu explores other seafood preparations. A baked Snapper with Asian flavors is a highlight that demonstrates the kitchen's versatility beyond the fryer. Seasonal rotations are a key part of the offering, with recent months featuring a Winter Soup and Toastie special that provides a warming option during the cooler Canberra months. For those looking to share, the restaurant offers a charcuterie board that can be enjoyed out on The Lawns, turning a simple snack into a laid-back picnic moment. The drinks menu offers thoughtful pairings throughout, whether it's a crisp white wine from the monthly selection or a refreshing cocktail to match the al fresco setting.

Signature Fish & Chips

The flagship dish uses fresh, high-quality fish that is battered and fried to order. The result is a fish fillet that remains moist and flaky inside a casing that shatters with every bite. Served with a generous pile of chips and classic condiments, it is the number one reason customers return again and again.

Seasonal Specials

The culinary team keeps the menu lively with limited-time offerings that take advantage of both the seasons and the kitchen's creative range. From a warming soup and toastie combo in winter to a featured Wine of the Month, there is always something new to discover. These specials are promoted both on-site and through the restaurant's website so repeat visitors always have a fresh reason to stop by.

The Dining Experience

Snapper & Co. has been designed from the ground up to offer a variety of dining experiences that all share the same unbeatable lakefront backdrop. The newly built Deck provides the most refined experience, featuring table service in an elevated setting. During the winter period, table service is paused on The Deck, but the space remains open for walk-in guests who can gather around the fireplace for a cozy, self-guided visit. The restaurant posts timely updates on its website about seasonal service changes, so guests always know what to expect.

The expanded Courtyard is the social heart of the venue, designed for patrons who want to soak up the atmosphere with a drink in hand and shareable food on the table. It feels lively and communal, ideal for larger groups and impromptu catch-ups. For a completely different mood, The Lawns offer a picnic-on-the-grass format that encourages families, couples, and solo visitors alike to claim a spot of grass, order directly from the counter, and enjoy a relaxed meal without the need for a formal table setting. All three areas offer an accessible, welcoming environment that makes the most of the restaurant's location at the yacht club.

What to Expect During Winter

During the colder months, The Deck transforms into a cozy walk-in space. While full table service is paused, the fireplace becomes a central gathering point, and guests are still welcome to enjoy food and drinks in a warm, sheltered setting. The Courtyard and The Lawns remain open, and the menu adapts with seasonal comfort items like the Winter Soup & Toastie special.

Customer Reviews & Ratings

Snapper & Co. holds a 4.0-star rating on Google Maps based on nearly 1,400 reviews, making it one of the most reviewed seafood destinations in the region. The volume of feedback paints a detailed picture of what guests can expect, with clear themes emerging around the quality of the fish, the beauty of the location, and the accessible, family-friendly format.

The overwhelming focus of positive reviews is the freshness and execution of the signature Fish and Chips. One reviewer described it as "absolutely the best fish and chips in Canberra" and went on to detail the "fresh, perfectly crispy outside and tender inside" fish with "golden brown and crunchy" chips. Another customer who visited after a bike ride from Kingston noted that even with light appetites, the shared portion was satisfying and well-prepared. The owner actively responds to reviews, thanking guests for their feedback and acknowledging suggestions, which demonstrates a commitment to ongoing improvement.

Not all feedback is unqualified praise, and this adds balance to the overall reputation. A recurring point of discussion is the pricing, with some reviewers commenting that the experience felt "a bit expensive" relative to casual fish and chip expectations, even while acknowledging the quality and setting. Other reviewers noted that the chips, while decent, could be "fairly basic" compared to the standout fish. The restaurant management addresses these comments professionally, thanking diners for their honesty and expressing a desire to welcome them back. This transparency in responding to both praise and constructive criticism builds trust with potential customers reading the feedback.

Snapper & Co. in Yarralumla

Snapper & Co. is located at 1 Mariner Place, Yarralumla ACT 2600, on the ground floor of the Southern Cross Yacht Club. The address places it directly on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, with views that stretch across the water and toward the green parklands that define this prestigious Canberra suburb. Yarralumla is known for its diplomatic residences, leafy streets, and proximity to popular outdoor destinations including the lake's extensive cycling paths and picnic areas. The restaurant is a natural stop for those following the bike paths from nearby neighborhoods like Kingston, as referenced by multiple Google Maps reviewers who incorporate the restaurant into their rides.

The site offers a range of practical amenities that make visits straightforward. A dedicated parking area operates daily from 8am to 5pm, including public holidays, with a rate schedule that makes shorter stays very affordable: the first two hours are free, and parking from two to three hours costs $5. Vehicle entries are managed by ticket, and overnight flat fees and lost ticket charges are clearly published. The restaurant maintains wheelchair-accessible entrances and facilities, ensuring that the lakeside experience is available to all. Public transport routes and dedicated cycling access also make the restaurant reachable without a car, connecting it to the broader Canberra community.

Hours, Reservations & Contact

Snapper & Co. is open every day from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with the main bar staying open until 9:00 PM. This consistent schedule makes planning easy whether guests are organizing a weekday lunch, a weekend family outing, or an after-work gathering. Reservations can be made through the restaurant's online booking platform, accessible via the website’s Bookings page, and are recommended for those planning to visit during peak hours and weekends, particularly when The Deck table service is in operation. For those who prefer to dine off-site, the restaurant offers online ordering, takeaway, and delivery service, making its signature fish and chips available anywhere within range. The phone line at +61 2 6273 1784 connects directly to the restaurant, and the website's contact page provides an alternative digital pathway for function inquiries, gift card purchases, and general questions.

Common Questions

What type of cuisine does Snapper & Co. specialize in?

Snapper & Co. specializes in contemporary seafood with a focus on classic fish and chips made with fresh, high-quality fish. The menu also includes baked fish dishes, seasonal small plates, charcuterie boards, winter soups, and toasties.

Does Snapper & Co. have outdoor seating?

Yes, the entire venue is oriented around outdoor and al fresco dining. The Courtyard and The Lawns offer open-air seating, and The Deck provides a covered, elevated outdoor experience overlooking the lake.

Can I make a reservation at Snapper & Co.?

Reservations can be made through the online booking system accessible on the restaurant’s website. Table service on The Deck operates seasonally, so it's wise to check the website for current service updates when booking.

Is Snapper & Co. kid-friendly?

Absolutely. The venue is designed to be family-friendly with its Kids Fish and Chips menu option, casual lawn seating perfect for families to spread out, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. The whole setting makes it easy to bring children along.

Does Snapper & Co. offer takeaway or delivery?

Yes. Snapper & Co. offers takeaway and delivery service in addition to dine-in. Online ordering is available directly through the restaurant’s website, making it simple to enjoy its food from home.

What are the parking fees at Snapper & Co.?

Parking is available on-site with a rate schedule that applies daily from 8am to 5pm. The first two hours are free, two to three hours costs $5, and longer stays incur incremental charges up to a $20 overnight flat fee.

Is Snapper & Co. wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the restaurant includes wheelchair-accessible features, ensuring that the venue is open and navigable for all guests.