BentSpoke Brewing Co. in Canberra is a must-visit destination for craft beer enthusiasts and anyone seeking a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Located in the vibrant Braddon district, this brewpub has earned its reputation as one of the city’s top spots for great beer, delicious food, and a relaxed yet energetic vibe.
Atmosphere and Location BentSpoke is perfectly situated in a bustling area of Canberra, making it an ideal stop for locals and visitors alike. The venue exudes an industrial-chic charm with its combination of dark wood, metal accents, and unique décor elements like chandeliers made from bike parts. The outdoor seating area is particularly appealing, offering plenty of space to enjoy a drink in the fresh air while soaking up the lively atmosphere of Braddon. Whether you’re dropping by for a quick pint on your way home from work or settling in for a long evening with friends, the ambiance strikes the perfect balance between casual and vibrant.
Beer Selection The beer at BentSpoke is undoubtedly its main attraction. With 26 different draught options brewed onsite, including seasonal and limited-edition creations, there’s something to suit every palate. Their core range features crowd favorites like Crankshaft IPA and Barley Griffin Pale Ale, while adventurous drinkers can explore unique offerings such as gluten-free ginger beer or Belgian-style ales. The brewery’s commitment to innovation ensures that even regular visitors will always find something new to enjoy.
Food Offerings Complementing their stellar beer selection is a menu that elevates traditional pub fare with creative twists. From the Pigs Ear Burger to Hops Salted Potatoes and Grain Crusted Hot Wings, the dishes are crafted with care and often incorporate brewing ingredients.
Pricing While BentSpoke offers an exceptional experience, it’s worth noting that prices can feel steep for visitors from outside Australia. With meals typically ranging between $15–$30 AUD and beers priced around $14 a pint, international travelers may find it pricier than expected compared to similar venues abroad.
The brewpub’s central location makes it easily accessible for both locals and tourists. It’s open daily from 11 AM until late, accommodating everything from lunch outings to late-night drinks. Additionally, BentSpoke is family-friendly and dog-friendly, further enhancing its appeal as an inclusive venue.
BentSpoke Brewing Co. is more than just a brewpub; it’s an integral part of Canberra’s craft beer culture. With its outstanding selection of beers, delicious food offerings, and inviting atmosphere, it’s a fantastic spot for both casual visits and special occasions. While the pricing may seem high for international visitors, the quality of the experience makes it well worth a visit. Whether you’re a local looking for your next favorite beer or a traveler exploring Canberra’s culinary scene, BentSpoke delivers...
Read moreIt was a chilly winters night when two mates ventured to Bentspoke for the last chance to experience the truffle infused menu. We arrived after a hard day of wearing black puffers, lanyards, and doing the bare minimum to cash our government pay cheques when we were greeted by pleasant staff and good beer. After a round our hunger grew and the truffle infused menu beckoned to us. We gladly parted with our $50 each, the bar tender generously changing my limited brew Sidewinder for an Easy as I had do drive, then waited eagerly for the impending ‘feast’. The entrée arrives, the ‘Silverback battered potato scallops with truffle salt and truffle aioli’ amounted to nothing more than thick cuts of potato deep fried and so heavily salted you needed a mouthful of beer after each to get through them, the truffle infusion little more than ‘truffle aioli’ that comes standard on some burgers at Grill’d. It’s just an entrée we think, things will get better. My mate goes to the bar for a cider to wash down his chip covered salt entrée. Shortly after returning to the table the mains arrive, we cannot fault their speedy service! The cheery waiter passes it to us and I look my mate dead in the eyes, his reaction saying more than a thousand words. We look at our ‘Chicken Maryland with roast parsnips, peas, and truffle beer jus’, and all we see is 2 chicken drumsticks, some peas, and gravy. At this stage our hopes were dashed, our expectations ruined, and even a freshly shaven face could not restore our morale. We ate our drumsticks in body but not in spirit. Again, the staff were polite and prompt, taking our plates and asking our opinions. Alas we could not lie, we had to tell them the truth. This meal was but a shadow of what we expected, and we have eaten at the Kapooka mess. But again, the staff took it on the chin and offered us free drinks to ‘sort things out’, assuring us the dessert of ‘Cheese and cracker using spent grain crackers, raw milk Manchego cheese, apple, caramelized pumpkin seeds and Silverback truffle syrup’ would be a delight, and a delight of giggles it was. Their final chance to save the night was best described as quantity over quality. A venerable tower of layered cracker, cheese slab, and good old granny smith apple slices challenged what cheese and crackers can be, it was a meal within itself, and the final straw. We nibbled what we could stand, left a full limited brew at the table, and let our group chat know of our harrowing night. I can honestly say it was the worst meal I have eaten in my 6 years living in Canberra, but again, the staff and...
Read moreBentSpoke Brewing Co. is a vibrant spot in Canberra with a fantastic mix of great beer, food, and atmosphere. It works well whether you’re dropping by for drinks or a meal with family.
🍺 The beer list is extensive, with plenty of unique brews to choose from. Prices aren’t cheap, but there are nightly deals that make it more affordable, and the quality of the beer makes it worthwhile.
🍴 The food menu is broad and well put together, offering enough variety to pair nicely with the drinks. Portion sizes and quality were solid, making it a reliable option for both snacks and a full meal.
🙂 The staff were warm and welcoming, with one team member going out of his way to help us find the lift when I was managing a pram — a much-appreciated touch. Service felt attentive without being overbearing.
🪑 The space itself is stylishly decorated and has a lively, energetic vibe even on weeknights. With events on throughout the week, there’s always something happening, which keeps the atmosphere buzzing.
👶 Families are well catered for, with highchairs, a kids’ menu, and easy access via a lift to the upstairs seating area. It’s nice to see a brewery making the effort to be inclusive for all ages.
Overall, BentSpoke is a spot I’d happily return...
Read more