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The Ginger Room

Could there be a more ‘Canberra’ restaurant than this welcoming room in Old Parliament House? With its white-clothed tables, attentive waitstaff and previous life as the Prime Minister’s dining room, one would expect a little inflation in the cost. So the arrival of an excellent-value fixed-price menu is a pleasant surprise. There are separate lists for entrées cold and hot (plump mussels with oregano and garlic butter is a winner). Seared marlin with crisp prosciutto and braised fennel, and thyme-braided rabbit wrapped in pancetta with balsamic red onion shine among the mains. The big question: end the meal with something sweet or choose from one of Australia’s most appealing cheese menus – Roquefort with truffle honey salad, or Pyengana cheddar and figs swaddled in prosciutto? The wine list is impressive, and there’s a well-conceived vegetarian menu. This one definitely gets our vote.