Canberra’s dining scene has a new crown jewel. Lunetta, perched atop Red Hill Lookout, has been officially named ACT Restaurant of the Year at the prestigious Gourmet Traveller Restaurant Awards, marking a remarkable milestone for the venue that only opened in November 2024.
Despite its brief time on the culinary map, Lunetta has already captured national attention. Its refined Italian menu, open-fire cooking techniques, and striking interior design have earned widespread acclaim, establishing it as one of the city’s most exciting new dining destinations. This latest accolade follows a series of notable recognitions, including a Good Food Guide Chef’s Hat earlier this year, the Monocle Design Award for Best Renovation, and the Enduring Architecture Award from the Australian Institute of Architects.
The restaurant’s success also extends beyond the local scene, with Lunetta named as one of just six finalists for Best New Restaurant in Australia—a rare distinction that places it among the nation’s culinary elite.
Co-owner and restaurateur Tracy Keeley described the award as the culmination of years of planning and dedication. “We’re deeply honoured to be named ACT Restaurant of the Year. Lunetta has been a labour of love from day one, from restoring this beautiful Red Hill landmark to crafting each detail of the dining experience,” Keeley said. “We’re so grateful for the support from our guests, the Canberra community, and our extraordinary team who bring it all to life each day.”
Lunetta operates in tandem with its sister venue, Lunetta Trattoria, located on the floor below. Together, the two establishments are redefining dining in the capital, combining seasonal produce, sustainable practices, and open-fire cooking with sweeping treetop views that elevate every meal into a memorable experience.
Guests can expect more than just a meal at Lunetta—they are offered an immersive experience where design, ambience, and cuisine intertwine seamlessly. The Red Hill location, with its panoramic vistas, provides a backdrop as striking as the menu itself, allowing diners to enjoy the city from a unique vantage point.
With this recognition, Lunetta not only affirms its status as Canberra’s premier dining destination but also signals the city’s growing reputation as a hub for innovative, high-quality cuisine. For food lovers in the capital and beyond, it’s a restaurant that promises to leave a lasting impression, both on the plate and in memory.
