Arc

Pass through a set of revolving doors in a glitzy office foyer, venture around the curtain and find yourself at Arc, a beautiful cafe by Canberra coffee roaster Redbrick. Positioned among a cluster of corporate buildings, hotels and nearby cultural attractions such as the Canberra Theatre Centre, this place is a convenient pit stop if you’re in the market for a refined breakfast or lunch in town.

Early birds might order eggs Benedict with miso-spiked hollandaise. Later in the day may call for a celeriac and cauliflower fritter, or slow-cooked lamb with roasted garlic hummus, pita bread and a glass of wine. Takeaway sandwiches are available for those on the run.

A good lamington is a thing of beauty, and Arc’s house-made one is a standout in the sweet cabinet: a fluffy chocolate-and-coconut-coated sponge that gives way to a centre of jam and whipped cream.

This being an outpost for Redbrick, it’s no surprise that the coffee game here is strong, with the full spectrum of espresso, batch brew and iced options available. Try Redbrick’s Good Day blend, with notes of malt and caramel.

Local artisans are showcased throughout the airy and open space; the cloud-like floral display that hangs from the high ceiling is by local florist Wiluna, and the furniture is a collaboration with designer Tom Skeehan. A huge central rosy terrazzo bar overlooks the sleek dining room, which is decked out with a mix of curvaceous lounges, communal benches and round tables.