Queen's Terrace Café

Parliament Dr, Capital Hill ACT 2600, Australia
+61 2 6277 5239
$$$ Cafe
(296 Reviews)
Price Range $1–20

Queen's Terrace Café sits conveniently on Parliament Drive within the grounds of Parliament House, making it a natural stop for visitors exploring the capital’s political heart. It functions as a cafe with a relaxed, casual atmosphere that balances indoor comfort with a thoughtfully arranged outdoor seating area. On cooler Canberra days, the indoor space—with well-spaced tables—offers an inviting retreat, while on milder afternoons, the terrace provides an open-air spot to appreciate views of the city’s greenery.

The café serves as a straightforward yet satisfying option for those seeking a reliable coffee or a light meal during a break from sightseeing or local errands. Coffee is a highlight here, with family groups and tourists alike noting the consistently good quality of both hot brews and iced drinks. Alongside coffee staples like flat whites and cappuccinos, you’ll find an approachable menu that includes classic café fare: pastries such as ham and cheese croissants, hearty options like beef pies and lamb sausage rolls, and lighter bites including salads and slices.

Its vibe leans family-friendly and relaxed, making it a spot where kids’ menu options, from chicken nuggets to sausage rolls, help keep younger visitors content. The staff manage to maintain a welcoming and attentive presence, even when the café is buzzing with visitors, helping to foster a steady, easygoing pace rather than a rush.

Whether you’re wrapping up a Parliament House tour or simply need a break in a setting that blends Canberra’s official precinct with casual dining, Queen’s Terrace Café fits that niche well. Mornings and early afternoons, especially on sunny days, are ideal for settling in with a coffee and watching the world move quietly through the heart of the city. It’s not a spot for elaborate dining but works well for anyone after a pleasant, no-fuss place to recharge amid the dignified surroundings of Capital Hill.

Highlights
Serves great coffee
What they serve
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves coffee
Serves healthy options
Serves small plates
Serves vegetarian dishes
Serves wine
Best for
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dessert
Has seating
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking

Openings Hours

Checking

Monday

9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Tuesday

9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Wednesday

9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Thursday

9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Friday

9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Saturday

9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Sunday

9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

296 Reviews
Tim Veyret

19 Dec 2025

We visited here on a trip around Parliament House. It is a nice venue to visit with outdoor seating. It was a bit cool and so we sat inside. The tables are nice and spaced out. The staff were all very welcoming and hospitable. Just ordered some afternoon sweet snacks and a coffee. Thank you for the hospitality and nice coffee & food. If you are visiting Parliament House, do yourself a favor and drop in

Larissa H

14 Dec 2025

We enjoyed our high tea at Parliament. The staff member we had looking after us was exceptionally kind and responsive. The food was amazing and featured Australian produce. It was a great experience!

Rod Clarke

12 Nov 2025

Stopped for drinks after our Parliament House tour – hands down the best coffee we’ve had in Canberra so far. The kids couldn’t stop raving about their iced drinks! The table service was a nice touch and made for a more relaxing experience. Despite the café being busy, the staff were efficient and in control. The space felt warm and inviting, with a family-friendly atmosphere and great ambiance. There was also a good selection of snacks and light bites, which rounded out the visit nicely. We’ll definitely be back!

Kathryn Bickerton

07 Nov 2025

Had a wonderful time visiting Parliament House and going to the cafe. Coffee was good and nice selection of food. We sat outside, enjoying the view of Canberra.

Dian

02 Nov 2025

Queen’s Terrace Café inside Parliament House is a pleasant stop during a visit. My friend enjoyed a slice of cake while I had a flat white. Both were fine, simple and satisfying. It’s convenient and comfortable for a quick break.

Andreas Kuswara

28 Oct 2025

This place is a must-stop after touring Parliament House, unless you're on a tight budget. We had a "Bacon & Egg Roll" and a "Ham, cheese croissant," both excellent, and I particularly liked the egg and bacon. Both are relatively light meals, they have some other heavier options, but we weren't super hungry. I also liked the raspberry cake; I think the sour balanced well with the chocolate layer. The matcha cheesecake is okay; I liked it, but my wife didn't. The atmosphere is great, with a luxurious and unique feel and an amazing view. Outdoors would be amazing, but in this summer weather, we opted for indoors and just came out for photos.

Dean Huang

22 Sep 2025

Very nice place located right inside Parliament House. The breakfast was delicious and very well priced. Great atmosphere and the staff were lovely. Definitely worth a visit!

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