Chef Hao’s Picks
When it comes to creating an unforgettable date night, atmosphere, flavour, and a touch of spark are everything.
As Head Chef at RAKU in Canberra, Chef Hao spends his days surrounded by incredible produce and passionate hospitality - so when he dines out, he's looking for places that surprise, delight, and create the kind of memories you’ll still be talking about long after dessert.
Here are his personal recommendations for the best date-night restaurants in the city.
Raku
A world-class Japanese fine dining restaurant, Raku is as much about atmosphere as it is about exceptional food. With its beautiful interior design and striking lighting, it gives you the feeling of dining in New York, Dubai, or another international city. Raku combines traditional Japanese culinary techniques with contemporary Australian dining, delivering high-quality sushi, sashimi, and charcoal robata grill dishes. The signature dishes are as beautiful as they are delicious, and the wine and sake list is carefully curated to elevate each bite. It’s a place always suitable for any occasion - but for a date night, it’s guaranteed to impress.
Rebel Rebel
Rebel Rebel reminds me of a song by the English singer and songwriter, David Bowie. Chef Sean McConnell is a great chef and the food is seasonal, simple, and deeply flavourful. I recently dined there and enjoyed a winter truffle dish that was nothing short of incredible. It’s the kind of place I take friends visiting from outside Canberra, knowing they’ll experience something memorable. For a date night, the relaxed but refined vibe makes it easy to focus on great conversation over beautifully executed dishes.
Carlotta
Carlotta is a new Mediterranean concept restaurant with a beautiful fit-out and an excellent wine list. Restaurateur Chris Lucas is a man I have great respect for and brings all the energy to his venues. With its vibrant dishes, generous flavours, and ambience, Carlotta is the perfect spot for a date that calls for something stylish yet full of life.
Bar Rochford
For something more intimate, Bar Rochford is a go-to. The atmosphere is really cool, and I enjoy sitting at the bar to watch them play old records and drink the perfect glass of red. It’s a spot that that is really cool for the young people. The dishes are a masterclass in balance, the booze list is exceptional, and the service is truly special. For a date night with a touch of edge, Bar Rochford delivers. From Japanese elegance to Mediterranean warmth, the city in Canberra has a restaurant for every mood and every moment. The right date night isn’t just about what’s on your plate - it’s about where you are, who you’re with, and how the night makes you feel. These venues deliver all three, every time.
