Whether you’re cramming for a final exam, you finish work late or you just want something warmer than a cocktail to conclude a cute winter date, you need a late night cafe. We’re spoilt for choice in Canberra when it comes to cafes, however most of them tend to close around the afternoon.
Fortunately there are still a few cafes serving up coffee (and non-caffeinated drinks for those who want to sleep!) into the wee hours of the night. Find your new late night haunt in the 7 places below.
1. Kita
59 Boolimba Cres, Narrabundah ACT 2604
Open from 9pm-7am
Self described as a ‘a nocturnal hang out for real nightowls’, Kita is a welcome haven for students especially. Offering free wifi, cosy chairs and 20% off if you present your student card, its the perfect place to order a double shot and do some serious study. And for when you inevitably get the study munchies, they also have wide variety of Indonesian inspired dishes. Everyone raves about the ‘martabak manis’ – for good reason.
2. Via Dolce
106 Bunda St, Canberra ACT 2601
Open until 11pm each night
You might know this Civic gem for its delicious gelato, but if you step inside the Italian cafe you’ll discover the true reason to visit Via Dolce: their extensive cake display. Here you’ll find a range of traditional desserts, from Biscotti to Tiramasu, served with a piping hot long black or milk chocolate affrogato!
3. My Cafe
Manuka Plaza, 1/22 Franklin St, Griffith ACT 2603
Open until 9pm Sunday – Wednesday, until 9:30pm Thursdays and 10:30pm on Friday and Saturday
With service as sweet as their cakes, I was pleasantly surprised and excited when I realised that My Cafe was open as late as 10:30pm some nights. A pocket of nostalgia, we recommend popping into the nearby Paperchain Bookstore first to grab a new novel to read while you take refuge from the cold Canberra evenings.
4. Monster Kitchen and Bar
Ground/25 Edinburgh Ave, Canberra ACT 2601
Open until 11 pm Sunday – Thursday, and 12am on Friday and Saturday
Although known for, and capable of, much more than just a simple espresso, the Monster Kitchen and Bar staff will happily appease your request for a coffee, using local Canberra roasted beans. Try to snag a seat by the open fire for the ultimate cosy experience.
5. Mocan and Green Grout
1/19 Marcus Clarke St, Canberra ACT 2601
Open until 9pm each night, except Sunday and Monday
Another New Acton staple, Mocan and Green Grout is not only great for brunch, its the perfect place to go after you’re movie at the Palace Electric cinemas. Sitting on
the low stools by the window with hands wrapped a mug you’ll feel like you’re in your own living room – if your living room had table service.
6. Tilley’s Devine Cafe Gallery
Brigalow St &, Wattle St, Lyneham ACT 2602
Open until 10pm all nights except Sunday
Reminiscent of a Hollywood film noir, the soft lighting and ambient jazz of Tilley’s has been a favourite with Canberra locals for the past 25 years. It’s old fashioned charm makes it a perfect end to a late date.
7. Bluey’s Cafe
2 Badham St, Dickson ACT 2602
Open until 4 am every day
Part of the Dickson Tradies, the Bluey’s Cafe is solid choice for when it is truly very late (or early!). The friendly staff will always make you feel welcome, no matter what time it is.
