The George Bar & Grill

At the heart of Forrest, The George Bar and Grill hums with easygoing energy. Its open-plan dining room sets the scene for convivial meals, where the best of the Canberra region takes centre stage. The kitchen keeps things generous and seasonal, letting quality produce speak in bold, satisfying flavours.

The menu roams with confidence. There are shareable beginnings with pita, hummus and za’atar, warm olives bright with lemon and garlic, or oozy baked camembert paired with fig chutney. Asian accents appear in crisp prawn gyoza dressed with yuzu and wasabi, while the grill leans classic with burgers, wraps and well-loved steaks. Comfort calls in bowls of cacio e pepe or pasta napolitana, and there is room for crowd-pleasers too, from butter chicken to fish and chips. Whatever the choice, it is food made for passing plates, swapping bites and lingering a little longer.

Evenings feel lively and unpretentious, the sort of place where friends, families and after-work crews settle in from Tuesday to Saturday, 6.00 pm to 9.00 pm; bookings are recommended. Gather the gang, claim your corner, and let The George turn a good night into a great one — go on, give the grill a whirl.