First Edition Canberra
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First Edition Canberra
Review
About
Novotel Canberra welcomes its premiere dining venue, First Edition Bar & Restaurant Canberra. Located on the 1st floor, the 180-seat restaurant is a luxurious space drawing inspiration from old world reading rooms oozing home style sophisticated charm. Dedicated to sourcing the best local produce, we serve modern Australian cuisine. Our bar offers curated drinks, wines & specialty cocktails. Showcasing only the best and freshest local produce sourced within Australia's capital and surrounding region, our family-friendly restaurant in Canberra offers a diverse seasonal all-day dining menu that your entire family will enjoy. Boasting an unrivaled elevated located overlooking the Canberra’s city streets and walking distance to the City public transport interchange.
Features
CUISINES
Australian
Meal types
Breakfast, Dinner, Drinks
Special Diets
Vegan options, Gluten free options
FEATURES
Accepts Credit Cards
Family style
Full Bar
Gift Cards Available
Highchairs Available
Live Music
Non-smoking restaurants
Reservations
Seating
Serves Alcohol
Table Service
Wheelchair Accessible
Wine and Beer
Does this restaurant have live music
Save this restaurant
Hours
Closed now
• Opens at 4:00 PM
Sunday
6:30 am - 10:00 am
Monday
6:30 am - 9:30 am4:00 pm - 10:30 pm
Tuesday
6:30 am - 9:30 am4:00 pm - 10:30 pm
Wednesday
6:30 am - 9:30 am4:00 pm - 10:30 pm
Thursday
6:30 am - 9:30 am4:00 pm - 10:30 pm
Friday
6:30 am - 9:30 am4:00 pm - 10:30 pm
Saturday
6:30 am - 10:30 am11:00 am - 10:30 pm
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3.6
186 reviews
Excellent
74
Very good
36
Average
28
Poor
21
Terrible
27
Marie Q
Murrumbateman174 contributions
Nov 2024 • family
Booked High Tea to celebrate a Birthday. Wish we had booked somewhere else. Our family group comprised, 5 Adults and 5 Children, youngest child aged 5, eldest aged 14. Service was polite but sloooow. We were the only people in the restaurant for the first 40 minutes. I paid for 5x Giggly High Tea for the Adults plus standard rate for the 14 year old and paid 4xadvertised KIDS rate for the younger children, assuming the petit fours for the younger children would be suitable for their palate. Total cost including credit card surcharge and $16.00 for 2.5 hour parking was $558.49. To be polite this High Tea was mediocre.😒 Only 3x3 Platter towers for the 10 of us, they were all the same, I queried this, and was told the chef decided to prepare each platter exactly the same with the barest minimum of appetisers. No menu on the table to advise what we were going to eat, and no menu published online. A young man and young lady served us, I expected at least 4 towers to be shared amongst the 10 of us, and expected the children's tower would be slightly different to the adults as inferred by the published rate. The square cut egg sandwiches and chicken sandwiches were dry, the smoked salmon on a mini rosti was nice as was the battered "something" (don't know what it was) the scones were also nice but were cut in half with the cream already piled on top, most High Teas provide jam and cream separately so that the diner can prepare their own, and usually there is a whole scone not a half scone. in total there were 3 halved scones per platter totaling, 1.5 scones per platter. The children naturally gravitated toward the sweets on the top platter. We liked the presentation of the Gin and Vodka in the teapots, but Staff had to be reminded to provide the drinks for the table, especially for the children, also had to be reminded to provide our regular tea and coffee, Daughter in law's coffee was forgotten by service staff. Sorry to say we won't be returning it was too expensive for what was provided, and the service could have been better. By the end of our High Tea we were very disappointed.
Written 10 November 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Josh B
1 contribution
July 2023 • couples
Was a great restaurant for been attached to a hotel the service was decent with some basic things taking sometime.
Good food though glad I didn’t pay full price been an Accor all member as the servings were so small that my partner and I had to order an entree after finishing dinner.
I order the scotch fillet truffle and was extremely disappointed to be given a plastic handle steak knife. For a $70 meal would have expected a large wooden handle knife not a plastic one you get from a bistro
All in all though good would consider retuning
Written 14 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sandra
Melbourne2 contributions
Nov 2024 • business
I’m vegetarian. Mushroom ragu sounded delicious but turned out to just be sauted mushrooms tossed with pasta. Menu is also lacking in simple sides dishes like a salad - had to order the halloumi salad and have halloumi removed for $19! Staff were nice but I’m not sure about the value for money personally.
Written 20 November 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ROD M
2 contributions
Jan 2025 • couples
Very disappointing! Had a 7pm reservation, was shown to table, then nothing. Approached the server at 7.30 to request drinks and place food order then waited. Only the drinks were forthcoming. Approached server again, was offered free drinks as compensation for delay and assured that our meals would be arriving soon. Meals finally on table at 8.50pm. Offered more free drinks which we declined. Upon leaving, we accepted the offer of paying for one meal only, the second meal and the drinks were removed from the bill.
Written 24 January 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
jeeen
20 contributions
May 2024 • couples
So disappointed. Entree of zucchini flower was too heavily battered and chicken wings nothing you couldn’t find at a pub. The mains were so tasteless we left 2 thirds. The waiter asked if we’d like a doggy bag and was very apologetic when we explained. Staff were very nice and attentive. Bit over attentive when one followed my husband into the toilets between courses to tell him he had to come back and sign for the meal. My husband politely told him we hadn’t had it yet.
The fettuccine was very bland, don’t order this if you are expecting a hit of flavour. If we hadn’t had asked for some cheese it would have been completely tasteless. The prawns were soggy. The chillies were more like capsicum pieces. Pork belly was too thick, hard to cut through top - bland and no seasoning. Tasteless blubber very hard to swallow. Think the chef was relying on the apple puree for flavour. The side of grilled vegetables were thankfully well cooked and edible. Thought we’d go here as an Accor member but So disappointed. There are many other delicious options in Canberra we will be going to next time.
Written 11 June 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Danny I
Gold Coast155 contributions
Oct 2024 • family
Took our Granddaughter to High Tea at First Edition on Saturday and we had a great time. Food was terrific with plenty for the three of us and they made our granddaughter a special sweet treat with a chocolate tree. The service was terrific and we will definitely go back again. The scones were a highlight and we thought that at $50.00 for adults this was pretty good value
Written 19 October 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Li L
Australia22 contributions
Nov 2023 • friends
We recently hosted some visitors from overseas, including 12 adults and several children. We would like to express our gratitude to Head Chef Jew for his flexibility and to the entire staff, including Eddie and Kabita for their great services. We would like to extend a special thanks to Jad for ensuring that drinks and all meals were served correctly and that no dishes were missed.
The menu received great feedback and the dishes, Crispy BBQ Chicken Wings and particularly the Bouillabaisse: Mussels • prawn • fish • clams • bisque • sour dough • herbs (H), were highly appreciated for their quality. It was delightful to see the prawn head intact in the mixed seafood dish. However, if it comes with the bowl shell, a minor suggestion would be to consider a different presentation.
The Cowra Lamb Rump and steak served here are my favorite dishes. Its tender texture and excellent execution by the head chef make it one of the most delectable dishes that most of us are satisfied with. We also loved the new Roasted Fennel & Orange Salad with citrus dressing, olive oil, and roasted almonds. Although the portion size seemed small for the price, I still enjoyed it. If, Regular and Large; a larger dish was available, I would choose that instead.
I had a wonderful dining experience and can't wait to come back for another dinner soon! I wanted to mention that being an AccorPlus member can enhance your experience even further as you can receive up to a 50% discount on dining.
Written 13 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
aus-vick
Crows Nest799 contributions
Jan 2025 • family
Delicious breakfast and dinner. Staff are helpful and the ambience is quite nice. Special shout out to Mannish behind the bar who made a very delicious mocktail for my daughter who said "it's the best drink she ever had". She suggested a few flavours she liked he he was able to make something delicious. Dinner we had the kids burger and the rib eye which was amazing! Slightly cooked over (medium rare) but it was still very delicious.
Written 1 January 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Wanderer975
Canberra45 contributions
July 2023 • solo
Nice setting above Northbourne Ave, strangely interesting as a good location to idly watch people going about their evening activities on the street below.
The meals were pleasant without being extraordinary.
The menu is a strange mix of share plates, some bordering on being entrees but others not, with pizzas, burgers and $50+ steaks. It was a confusing menu to navigate but the meals were sufficiently enjoyable.
The absolute highlight was the politeness, respectful attentiveness and genuine warmth of the waitress Alissa. She was wonderful and truly deserves to be working somewhere that is a little better organised and with a more friendly and supportive manager.
Written 25 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tanisha T
2 contributions
Oct 2024 • couples
First Edition in Canberra is our favourite spot, and we keep coming back for the amazing food, spectacular cocktails, and outstanding service. The Tilba Cheesebord, Oysters, Cheeseburger Sliders and the Sirloins are our go to.
Jay, the Food and Beverage Supervisor, always goes above and beyond to make every visit memorable. His attention to detail and warm hospitality truly elevate the entire dining experience. It’s rare to find someone so passionate and dedicated to ensuring guests have an unforgettable time.
If you’re after great drinks, delicious meals, and top-tier hospitality, this is the place to be!
Written 15 November 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jen M
1 contribution
Apr 2023 • none
Took my mum for a high tea treat. Was given 1 serving of nibbles with barely enough on it for two people. $50 each ($100) for a couple of sandwiches, (dry & obviously sitting there all day), a few macaroons & a couple of other odd sweets. I asked if this was it and was told yes. Was told by the waitress they couldn’t do anything about it. I asked who I could speak to about this as it was unacceptable for the price. Was then served another tier of nibbles but not everything was added so it seemed to be a leftover. Was served a strange cold tea/mocktail after the food arrived & had to ask what it was & for actual hot tea to be provided as was advertised. The food display on the advertisement was a lot more appealing and generous than what was served and none of the waiters explained what food items were being served, they just plonked on the table and walked away. A manager was also yelling at staff members behind the bar which took away the ambiance of the afternoon tea. This was also a pre paid even that I paid for online and after we left, I received a phone call stating I hadn’t paid for the high tea. I was quick to state otherwise and advised for staff to get their admin in order. Overall I’m really disappointed with the experience as this was a Mother’s Day gift and I won’t be dining at First Edition again.
Written 14 May 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
NickZ
Sydney11 contributions
Sept 2022 • couples
My wife and I had not been to First Edition for some 4 years due to a poor experience last time with friends. Nothing has improved only its more expensive. Oysters were tiny, monk fish was under seasoned and under cooked and our expensive wine was not served until after we started our mains which were served before new cutlery was even at the table. No seasoning at the table or offered. Not even getting Accor Plus member benefits makes this restaurant worth the visit in this hotel which is very dated as is the very old and dated restaurant with 1970’s style tables. Service is also very amateurish. Give this restaurant a miss at all costs there are far better choices in Canberra.
Written 18 September 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Gary K
1 contribution
Aug 2022 • none
Very poor experience, ordered bread / dip to start and mains at the same time. Realised that mains did not come with salad, so I asked the waiter if she could add a side salad to come out with my main meal. Within 10 min the bread and my side salad arrived, we then waited 1 hour for our main courses to arrive. Meals were very average, glad I was an Accor Plus members and received a 50% discount, would not have been happy paying the full price.
Ordered a 2nd glass of wine to drink with my main meal, again waited over 20min after the meal had arrived, because the bar staff was on the phone trying to explain to a customer why they had waited over 90min for a meal to be delivered to their room.
Also a lady walked out with her three (3) children because they had waited over 90min for their meals to arrive, the husband was left sitting at the table to finish his meal allow once they arrived.
Considering our booking was at 8:00pm and the restaurant was not busy, I don't know how long we would have waited if we came at 6:00pm.
Written 10 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Darren M
6 contributions
Nov 2024 • solo
The food here is always fresh, with great local produce, presented beautifully. The bar perfectly matches the dining experience with local wines to try. The bar staff are highly professional with faultless service and an excellent range of cocktails.
Written 6 November 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Stay272137
Canberra1 contribution
Jan 2024 • business
We required a venue to hold a business breakfast for conference delegates mainly from North America. As many were staying on the premises and others close-by we chose this venue. The First Edition crew did all they could to give us the experience we were hoping. All the delegates were very happy.
Written 10 February 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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