We have been to this café many many times for lunch. Whether a simple sandwich or a hot dish, it has never failed. They cater for all tastes in the menu. We have been for celebratory lunches or for a quick bite. The standard is high and the service is good.

The best aspect of this cafe is its outdoor terrace with great views across the lake. On a cold day, however, one is left with an ordinary indoor cafe with stunning stain glass windows but no view. Food is average cafe style and standard with prices at the upper end. Considering you have to queue at the counter to order... More

Don't expect too much from this place. Coffee is of average quality and food options are quite expensive. However, it offers a great location with the great views of Canberra Downtown from the outdoor terrace.

Breakfast menu has very little choice and unfortunately the only eggs dish was eggs Benedict. The hot cakes we ok but the eggs cold. We waited an excessive period for our drinks, to a point where we were about to leave. Our 600 ml large suddenly was reduced to 450 ml or so as the staff grudgingly transferred the coffee... More

This cafe used to be a good place to mix up study with food and coffee. However, it is no more. Today I ordered a coffee at 12:15pm before sitting down in the cafe to do some writing on my laptop. After 5 minutes, I was approached by a red haired male staff member who proceeded to tell me that... More

I have reviewed this cafe with my National Library reveiw. In short, my family and I thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience, with the cafe providing a good variety of meals.

The Bookplate is well located with excellent vistas and seating, both indoors and outside. Pick your time to visit. At peak periods, it takes anything up to an hour to get your order. No table service. Order and pay at the counter. Food is standard coffee shop fare of average quality and above average costs. Coffee is very average at... More

Dinner par excellence I recently accompanied my wife to the Bookplate Restaurant for an annual dinner, organised by her employer (4 December, 2012). This was our second visit to this restaurant which is located at the entrance level of the National Library of Australia. Moreover, we were again most impressed with the outstanding service and food provided by this establishment.... More

The cafe is worth visiting to see the stained glass windows if nothing else. It is located in the National Library and has indoor and outdoor eating areas. Order and pay at the counter. Try the blackboard menu for lunch. Ready made sandwhiches and salads are on display and very good.