Bookplate has a varied menu from pre made gourmet sandwiches through to hot dishes. The menu changes daily and if you're there for lunch the menu is revealed at noon by the placing of a blackboard above the counter. Be quick as the queue can sometimes be long as the food and service is excellent!

I'd heard that the National Library had a wonderful cafe, so I was looking forward to going there when I went to the library to access some difficult to find articles. I made the mistake of not eating as soon as I arrived, only to discover that by 2pm most of the food was gone. I ended up settling for... More

Excellent cold plates and light fare. Indoor seating sometimes difficult to get, but the outdoor patio is well sheltered with lots of seating. This is a place I love taking business associates because it is easy to get to, offers good lunchtime fare, and has a spectacular view of Lake Burley Griffin. THis rating is based on multiple visits over... More

I love this place and often go to the National Library simply for the cafe. The food is enjoyable. It is often busy but I got served reasonably quickly. The ambience is pleasant and the stained glass walls are amazing.

Really pleasant lunchtime dining. The menu starts at 12, so get there a little early to get a seat. Above average food choice, ranging from the exotic to the tried and tested.One of our favorite lunchtime spots

What a lovely dining room to enjoy coffee in and then follow onto brunch- great ricotta pancakes with berries just delicious and a large portion! The dining room has beautiful stained glass windows, comfortable lounge area as well dining tables. The service is efficient and pleasant. Of course on a beautiful sunny day there is also the choice to eat... More

I regularly go to the National Library in Canberra to do personal research. One of the highlights of my visits is the Bookplate restaurant. The food is always excellent and the menu varies. I"ve never had a bad meal there. The service is also great. Place your order at the counter, take a number, find a seat and the meal... More

This is a very popular cafe in the National Library: busy mid week with public servants and ladies who lunch.

I went to BookPlate one Saturday, thinking that this would be a good place to have a coffee while working on my laptop. Given that the National Library is a research institution, this seemed logical! However, as soon as I put my laptop on the table, I was asked to either leave or put it away. It appears they have... More