Looking for a place in Canberra where amazing food meets stylish design? Monster Kitchen and Bar might be your answer. This hotspot has made waves by switching from all-veggie back to a mix of plant and meat options. Whether you want creative cocktails, locally sourced dishes, or a cool atmosphere, Monster delivers on all fronts. Let’s explore what makes this restaurant special and how to get the most from your visit.
What Makes Monster Kitchen and Bar Special?
Located on the ground floor of Ovolo Nishi in Canberra, Monster Kitchen and Bar stands out as a unique dining spot. This restaurant has changed a lot since it opened in 2014. Back then, it was part of Hotel Hotel, which later became Ovolo Nishi.
Monster Kitchen and Bar quickly made a name for itself with its focus on local, seasonal food. The space looks amazing too, with its mix of cozy and fancy vibes. You’ll notice the beautiful mosaic floors and crystal chandeliers right away.
In 2020, Monster Kitchen and Bar tried something bold. They switched to a completely plant-based menu. This was meant to be a one-year test. But people loved the veggie food so much that they kept it going for four years!
But things have changed again. In late 2024, the restaurant went back to serving meat. Why? Because customers asked for more protein options. Don’t worry though—they still offer plenty of amazing plant-based dishes.
Monster Kitchen and Bar mixes high-end dining with fun, casual vibes. It’s a place where both meat-eaters and veggie lovers can enjoy a meal together. This balance makes it perfect for dates, family dinners, or nights out with friends.
The restaurant’s motto says it all: “where primal meets refined, and where taste knows no boundaries.” This sums up what makes Monster Kitchen and Bar so special in Canberra’s food scene.
Must-Try Dishes at Monster Kitchen and Bar
The menu at Monster Kitchen and Bar offers a mix of meat and plant-based options. Their new omnivore menu features locally sourced ingredients that taste amazing. Each dish shows off the chef’s skill and creativity.
For seafood lovers, the Abrolhos Island scallops with hazelnut and coriander butter are a must-try. The scallops come perfectly cooked—tender inside with a slight char on the outside. The nutty butter adds rich flavor without overwhelming the seafood.
Meat fans shouldn’t miss the Adobo marinated whole spatchcock. It comes with pickled green tomatoes that cut through the richness. The chicken stays juicy, and the skin gets wonderfully crispy with a beautiful char.
The pork belly skewers come with a spicy pepita crumble and aioli. These little bites pack big flavor. The crunchy, spicy pepita crumble balances the rich, fatty pork perfectly.
For beef lovers, try the Riverina Angus Sirloin with red wine butter. The steak comes cooked just right, and the butter adds a deep, wine-infused flavor. It’s simple but done so well that you’ll keep thinking about it later.
Vegetarians still have plenty of great choices. The zucchini flowers stuffed with smoked scamorza cheese offer a delicate, smoky flavor. The fried eggplant with babaganoush, stracciatella, and black garlic gives you layers of taste and texture.
Even a simple cos salad becomes special here. It comes with aromatic basil oil and pickled shallots. The combination makes for a bright, fresh side dish that complements the richer main courses.
The Bar Program: Drinks That Impress
Monster Kitchen and Bar takes its drinks as seriously as its food. The bar program has evolved to include options for every taste. Whether you want cocktails, wine, or non-alcoholic drinks, you’ll find something great.
Wine lovers will enjoy the focus on local drops. The wine menu showcases bottles from the Canberra region and beyond. This gives you a chance to taste what Australian winemakers are doing right now.
A smart touch: they offer half-pour wines for those who want to try different options. This lets you sample more varieties without drinking too much. It’s perfect for those who enjoy wine tastings.
The cocktail list features creative mixes with local spirits. Try their signature “Rose Petal” cocktail with lychee for something refreshing and floral. The bartenders know their craft and can customize drinks to suit your taste.
Non-drinkers aren’t forgotten here. Monster Kitchen and Bar offers a full range of zero-proof options. These include alcohol-free beers, wines, and mocktails that taste just as good as their boozy counterparts.
The bar staff knows their stuff and can help you pick the perfect drink. They’ll ask about your preferences and suggest options that match your taste. This personal touch makes the drinking experience even better.
For groups, consider ordering a few different drinks to share and taste. This way, everyone gets to try the bar’s range. It’s a fun way to start your meal or spend an evening at Monster Kitchen and Bar.
The Space: Different Areas for Different Moods
Monster Kitchen and Bar spreads across the ground floor of Ovolo Nishi, offering several distinct spaces. Each area has its own feel, so you can choose based on your mood or the occasion. The layout makes the restaurant feel both cozy and spacious.
The Library Area sits near the Edinburgh Avenue entrance. It features fireside seating that creates a warm, intimate vibe. This spot works well for quiet conversations or a romantic date. The soft lighting adds to the cozy atmosphere.
For a more formal dining experience, check out the Mosaic Room. It comes with padded chairs and a fireplace. The beautiful mosaic flooring catches your eye right away. This section feels special without being stuffy.
The Bar Area caters to casual drinks and light bites. It has a lively energy, making it great for after-work meetups or pre-dinner drinks. You can sit at the bar and watch the bartenders work their magic.
The Main Dining Room features tasteful yet bright artworks and signature crystal chandeliers. The space balances elegance with comfort. Large groups often prefer this area for its spacious tables and energetic atmosphere.
The design has changed over time, but Monster Kitchen and Bar still keeps its unique character. The space mixes modern elements with an “old world vibe” that feels both fresh and timeless. Art pieces throughout add points of interest.
Lighting changes throughout the day, creating different moods. During daylight hours, natural light floods in. At night, the space transforms with warm, dimmed lighting that makes everyone look their best.
Customer Experiences: What to Expect
Reviews of Monster Kitchen and Bar in 2025 show a mix of reactions, with most being positive. People especially praise the food quality and creativity. Many diners love how the dishes surprise and satisfy them.
“The food was divine – flavorful, creative, and hearty enough to please my carnivore husband,” one reviewer wrote. This shows how the restaurant manages to please different tastes at the same table. It’s why Monster works well for groups with varied food preferences.
The “Feed Me” menu option gets high marks from customers. This chef’s choice menu takes the guesswork out of ordering. Paired with matching wines, it creates a complete dining experience that many guests rave about.
Service quality varies according to some reviews. Some mention occasional disorganization or knowledge gaps among staff. But many others highlight friendly, knowledgeable service from people who clearly care about food and wine.
Temperature issues with some dishes appear in a few reviews. Some diners mention sauces served lukewarm rather than hot. This seems to be an occasional issue rather than a constant problem at Monster Kitchen and Bar.
The restaurant gets busiest during peak dinner hours (7-9 PM) and weekend brunches. If you want a quieter experience, try visiting on weeknights or during off-peak hours. The vibe changes throughout the day, so timing matters.
Most guests spend about 1.5 to 2 hours for a full dinner experience. Prices fall in the mid-to-high range for Canberra, reflecting the quality ingredients and creative preparation. Budget around $70-100 per person for a full meal with drinks.
Behind the Scenes: The Culinary Team
Executive chef David Wykes leads Monster Kitchen and Bar’s kitchen team. He came from Temporada, another well-regarded Canberra restaurant. Wykes took charge during the transition back to an omnivore menu, bringing fresh energy to the kitchen.
His cooking style focuses on flavor first, with beautiful presentation following. Wykes believes in letting quality ingredients speak for themselves. His approach balances technical skill with restraint, avoiding unnecessary complications.
The restaurant has seen other talented chefs in its history. Matthew Bentley led the kitchen during its vegetarian era. He championed what he called “New world vegetarianism” with a strong focus on seasonal produce.
When Monster first opened, Sean McConnell headed the kitchen. He established the restaurant’s commitment to regional producers. His menu even included honey from beehives kept on the hotel’s roof. This farm-to-table approach continues today.
The current kitchen team includes both veteran cooks and young talents. This mix creates a dynamic environment where traditional techniques meet fresh ideas. You can sometimes spot the chefs working through the open kitchen design.
The staff trains continuously to keep up with menu changes and food trends. This ensures consistent quality even as the menu evolves. Their commitment shows in the thoughtful preparation of each dish.
Chef Wykes admits that changing from vegetarian back to omnivore was a big move. “We’re changing a very core concept so whether or not it’s received well or not is still to be seen,” he said. So far, the response suggests he made the right call.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
Making reservations at Monster Kitchen and Bar helps ensure you get a table, especially on weekends. Book through their website or by phone. For special occasions, mention it when booking—they often add nice touches for birthdays or anniversaries.
The best times to visit depend on what you’re looking for. Weekday lunches tend to be quieter and more relaxed. Saturday nights bring energy and buzz. Sunday brunches offer a laid-back vibe with great people-watching.
For the best value, check out their set menus. The “Feed Me” option lets the chef choose your courses. Though it costs more upfront, you often get to try dishes that would cost more if ordered separately.
Parking can be found in the Nishi building or on surrounding streets. If you plan to enjoy drinks, consider using a ride service or public transport. The restaurant sits within walking distance of many Canberra attractions.
Dress code leans smart casual. You’ll feel comfortable in nice jeans and a button-up shirt or a casual dress. No need for formal wear, but very casual clothes might feel out of place in the more elegant dining areas.
For group bookings (8+ people), contact the restaurant directly rather than booking online. They can accommodate larger parties with advance notice. Groups may be offered special menu options to streamline service.
If you have dietary restrictions, let them know when booking. The kitchen can modify many dishes for allergies or preferences. Their experience with vegetarian cooking means they handle plant-based requests particularly well.
When to Visit Monster Kitchen and Bar
Monster Kitchen and Bar opens daily, making it flexible for various schedules. Food is available until 10 PM, with the bar staying open later. This makes it perfect for both early diners and night owls looking for late bites.
Breakfast at Monster offers a relaxed start to your day. The morning menu features both classic breakfasts and creative morning dishes. The coffee comes from quality beans, properly prepared by trained baristas.
Weekday lunches provide a perfect setting for business meetings or catching up with friends. The natural light during day hours shows off the restaurant’s design features. The lunch menu offers lighter options alongside more substantial meals.
Dinner brings the most extensive menu options and the liveliest atmosphere. The restaurant looks its best in the evening, with lighting that creates a warm glow. This makes dinner at Monster Kitchen and Bar feel like a special occasion.
Late-night service covers those post-show hunger pangs or extended evenings out. The bar menu offers satisfying bites that pair well with drinks. This makes Monster a good option for continuing your night after events in the city.
According to recent statistics, more than half of Australians plan to dine out more in 2025. This makes booking ahead even more important. Securing your table at Monster Kitchen and Bar ensures you won’t miss out on this popular spot.
The changing seasons bring menu updates worth checking out. The restaurant’s commitment to seasonal produce means autumn and spring typically introduce new dishes. These seasonal changes keep the menu fresh and exciting throughout the year.
Final Thoughts on Monster Kitchen and Bar
Monster Kitchen and Bar stands out in Canberra’s dining scene because it keeps evolving. The shift from vegetarian back to omnivore dining shows how the restaurant listens to its customers. This adaptability helps it stay relevant in a changing food landscape.
The balance of plant-based excellence with carefully selected meats creates broad appeal. You can bring your vegan friend and your meat-loving partner, and both will find dishes to enjoy. This inclusivity makes planning group outings much easier.
The different dining spaces let you choose the right setting for your occasion. Whether you want a romantic dinner, casual drinks, or a celebratory meal, Monster has a spot that fits. Few restaurants offer this kind of flexibility.
The bar program deserves special mention for its creativity and range. From local wines to custom cocktails and quality non-alcoholic options, they cover all bases. This makes Monster Kitchen and Bar a destination even if you just want drinks.
Price-wise, Monster sits in the upper-middle range for Canberra. The quality justifies the cost, but it’s not an everyday option for most budgets. Think of it as a place for meaningful occasions rather than casual drop-ins.
Located in the artistic Nishi building, Monster Kitchen and Bar fits perfectly with its surroundings. The restaurant contributes to the cultural fabric of Canberra. Its commitment to local producers strengthens the capital’s food community.
For visitors and locals alike, Monster Kitchen and Bar offers a taste of what makes Canberra’s food scene special. It balances creativity with comfort, tradition with innovation. This mix creates memorable dining experiences that keep people coming back.
