Did you know—the tradition of al fresco dining dates back to ancient times? People used to enjoy communal meals outdoors, often as part of celebrations. Today, we don’t need a special occasion to dine in the open air—especially in Queanbeyan, where we have some amazing family-friendly options with beautiful scenery and diverse, delicious food.
Casual dining at historic Campbell & George
Well before 2019, when Campbell & George first opened, this venue already had a firm place in the hearts of locals. The site was home to the historic Queanbeyan Bowls Club, which had been active since 1934. What is now the beer garden was once what the police horses called home.
Today, Campbell & George still has a strong local flavour that centres around this outdoor space, nicknamed ‘The Paddock’. It is a lovely and vibrant open-air setting that’s suitable for families, friends and work colleagues.
On those pleasant spring evenings, settle in with some comfort food from the bistro. The Campbell & George team recommend a chargrilled rump steak with a glass of red wine—or something from their classic pizza or pasta offerings.
For those who run on the cold side, don’t worry—you’ll feel downright cosy indoors when the fire is alight, especially on Thursday and Saturday nights when there is live music.
Open every day.
Corner of Campbell and, George St, Queanbeyan NSW 2620
Images by Campbell & George
Best tacos around at Cartel
Introducing Cartel Tacos, nestled under a sprawling pepper tree with a serene view of the river—truly a haven for those seeking an outdoor dining experience in Queanbeyan.
Cartel is owned by Anna Petridis from Patissez café, which became renowned for freak shakes and loaded tacos. It comes as no surprise then, that the tacos at Cartel are bigger than usual. The tortillas are also cooked the traditional way; by dipping in oil and then grilling—and word on the street is that the tacos here are the most comparable to those in Mexico!
The fiery flavours will warm you right up; the chilli and garlic butter king prawn taco packs a punch, while the Birria and pork shoulder tacos are pure comfort eats. End on a sweet note with fresh, hot churros tossed in cinnamon sugar.
With an army of gas heaters on standby, you can be sure that the fiesta continues even on cooler days! There are also Cartel Oodies on hand for both adults and kids to rug up in.
Open Thursday-Sunday.
Ray Morton Park, 6 Trinculo Pl, Queanbeyan East NSW 2620
Images by Mode Imagery
A taste of Italy at PRONTO by Trecento
No al fresco dining list would be complete without an Italian addition. After all, the term “al fresco” originates from Italian and literally translates to “in the fresh air” or “outdoors.”
Owned and operated by the Kosteski family, including brothers Josh and Jon Kosteski, and Melinda Kosteski who is married to Josh, PRONTO is the sister restaurant to Trecento Manuka.
Housed in a 1930s building and with a simple ethos of good food made for sharing with loved ones, PRONTO offers a warm and inviting atmosphere that feels just like home. Their al fresco hideaway is sheltered enough to protect you from the elements, while still allowing you to enjoy the fresh air while tucking into some classic Italian pasta dishes.
PRONTO offers gnocchi three ways; della terra with mushrooms and a chilli-burnt-butter sauce, napoletana and al tartufo with truffle cream.
Of course, who could ever go past a ragu? At PRONTO, the slow-cooked lamb ragu absolutely shines with rigatoni, a robust pasta made to hold onto rich, flavourful sauces.
PRONTO also boasts a 300-year-old Neapolitan wood-fired pizza recipe that was actually learned in Naples with the AVPN, an association that regulates and protects authentic Neapolitan pizza globally!
Finish the night off with a classic tiramisu, made in-house from a generations-old recipe.
Open every day.
11 Monaro St, Queanbeyan NSW 2620
Images by Ashley St George
*Check all opening times prior to visiting
Written by Thuc Do, Fiction Agency, for Visit Queanbeyan-Palerang.