A new wine bar has arrived in Canberra’s north, with Wakefield’s Bar & Wine Room set to draw locals and visitors alike into its moody, intimate spaces.
Complete with a walk-in wine room and private dining space, the venue will focus on Australian wines, local produce and live entertainment.
Wakefield’s is the latest addition to Ainslie institution Edgar’s, which comprises an all-day gastro-pub and pizza bar, Mama Dough.
Owner and industry veteran of over 25 years Frank Condi said Wakefield’s is an exciting next step for the venue.
“The opening marks the final piece of looking at Edgar’s as one big home, with a room for every mood and occasion,” he said.
“Our ultimate goal is to create personalised experiences for locals and travellers and be surrounded by good food and wine as they create lasting memories together.”
Designed by local firm Capezio Copeland, Wakefield’s offers a warm, vintage vibe, with natural surfaces, timbers and hints of burgundy and jade throughout.
The venue can seat up to 50 guests, while the separate private dining room can hold up to 20 people.
Head chef Steven Jacomos has created a succinct menu championing Australia’s best seasonal produce, with chargrilled lamb riblets, crumpets with smoked trout and bottarga, hand rolled pasta and apple tarte tatin among the highlights.
On the wine front, guests can choose from more than 100 Australian drops, including a number of Canberra labels.
The cocktail list is another highlight, featuring Wakefield’s take on an Old Fashioned, a smoked version of the famed Charlie Chaplin and an espresso martini using Canberra’s own Underground spirits caramel vodka.
Condi said venue is also poised to become a regular home for local talent, from jazz, blues and soul to burlesque throughout the week.
“With international travel off the cards for the foreseeable future, we are also looking at Edgar’s to provide an experience worthy of a trip to Canberra and we would love to encourage visitors to stay longer and explore the capital,” he said.
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