First Edition Bar and Dining has become Novotel Canberra’s newest attraction which officially launched last month following a refurbishment of their first-floor mezzanine.

Under the direction of Brandworks Australia in combination with AccorHotels, the 180-seater venue has been transformed into a luxurious space with bespoke woodwork highlighted by clean and modern hardware. Drawing inspiration from old world reading rooms, the space oozes home-style sophisticated charm with emerald velvet lounge chairs, dark wood tables and novel style trinkets displayed on iron shelves throughout.  

On entry, First Edition Bar and Dining is intimate and inviting. Serving up a curated menu of spirits and specially crafted cocktails, the venue pays tribute to local distilleries and tap houses, featuring the First Edition’s own handcrafted gin in collaboration with The Canberra Distillery.

Bartender pouring a cocktail made with Novotel Canberra’s own gin. Image: Supplied

The all-Australian wine list features some of the country’s finest and includes best-selling varietals from the local Canberra Regions Lerida Estate and Mt Majura wineries.

In the restaurant, Executive Chef Jennie Tressler has invented a seasonal all-day dining menu curating the vast array of fresh produce available within the nation’s capital and surrounds. Her culinary career started out at the age of five under the direction of her Nan, which reflects on her time owning a trattoria in Italy and sourcing produce daily from the local markets. Tressler credits her passion for using fresh farm produce to create unique plates, inspiring her team to share in her culinary passion while paying homage to local farmers.

Executive Chef Jennie Tressler plating up canapés. Image: Supplied

Jennie’s food creates a feeling of nostalgia, constructed from memories of times and places throughout her life and childhood which also resonates with all those that dine. The opening pages of the menu afford guests to select various share-style dishes exhibiting Balzanelli’s Cured Meats and Fedra Olive Grove home style olives and oils, along with traditional style entrées such as Burratina with winter fruits, crushed rye and extra virgin olive oil($16). Home comfort mains include the Peppercorn Beef Pot Pie($26).

In addition, guests can create their own culinary adventure choosing the setting with a salad base. We recommend the ‘Forager’ (roast wild mushrooms, bitter leaf, blossoms, endives and bush tomato vinaigrette)  topped with a hero protein. Choices include grilled halloumi with mint, lemon and toasted almond($26) to Balinese pork ribs ($32).

Cured meats, cheese boards, and entrées make up the menu list. Image: Supplied

The final chapter offers a choice of sweet and savoury from the Taste of Tilba cheese plate($22) to the decadent American Sugar Pie with double whipped cream and gold coated strawberries ($16).

Inside the new First Edition Bar and Dining restaurant

Whether it be for business or pleasure, First Edition Bar and Dining offers home-style service and a charming atmosphere, while providing the perfect surrounds to work, rest or play.

First Edition Bar and Dining
02 6245 5000
Level 1, 65 Northbourne Avenue, Canberra 2601
Mon-Sun 6:30am-9:30pm
www.firsteditioncanberra.com.au