More than 200 of the capital’s restaurateurs, hospitality operators and industry guests gathered at Canberra’s Realm Hotel on 7 September to celebrate the ACT Restaurant & Catering Australia (R&CA) Hostplus Awards for Excellence.
Hosted by local identity, Cam Sullings (Mix 106.3), the gala event recognised excellence across 17 distinct categories, highlighting the resilience, innovation and world-class talent driving the ACT and surrounding regional dining scene.
Red Hill’s Italian destination, Lunetta, stole the spotlight – taking home two coveted titles: Restaurant of the Year and Premium Dining of the Year. Meanwhile, regional favourite, Petrichor Farm, Gundaroo dominated the catering sector, securing wins in both Caterer of the Year and Wedding Caterer of the Year.
Restaurant & Catering Australia National President John Hart, OAM, praised ACT hospitality operators for setting a benchmark of excellence in every area of the profession.
“Driven by passionate business operators who take immense pride in their craft, the ACT’s hospitality scene is second to none. From Murrumbateman to Barton – these Awards celebrate the diversity and resilience of our capital’s culinary community. Every winner has earned their title through business excellence, kitchen innovation and exceptional front-of house service – they should all feel incredibly proud of their achievements.”
Each winner is independently assessed against rigorous criteria including food, service and presentation. Caterers are judged on operations, staffing, event execution and client delivery.
ACT 2026 Major Category Award winners
Caterer of the Year, Sponsored by American Express
Petrichor Farm, Gundaroo
Nestled in the Yass Valley near the heritage-listed gold-rush village of Gundaroo. Surrounded by native flora and fauna, Petrichor Farm is conveniently just 30 minutes’ drive from Canberra and two hours from Sydney.
Restaurant of the Year, Sponsored by Hostplus
Lunetta, Red Hill
Two-storey Italian dining destination located at the iconic Red Hill Lookout in Canberra.
ACT 2026 Award winner highlights
- Lunetta, Red Hill claimed two awards – taking home Premium Dining of the Year and Restaurant of the Year.
- Petrichor Farm, Gundaroo won two awards: Caterer of the Year and Wedding Caterer of the Year.
- National Press Club, Barton took home two awards, Events Caterer of the Year and Chatham House Restaurant, within the National Press Club won Restaurant in a Pub/Club. Mezzalira Ristorante, Canberra claimed a win in the Italian Restaurant Category.
- Shaw Estate Restaurant, Murrumbateman was awarded Best New Restaurant.
- The Rainforest Cave Restaurant, Jamala Wildlife Lodge, Canberra celebrated a win for Restaurant in a Hotel/Resort.
The Hostplus Awards for Excellence is the restaurant and catering industry’s most prestigious national awards program, celebrating the industry operators and professionals across every state and territory of Australia.
The 2026 Hostplus Awards for Excellence will culminate with a National Gala Ceremony at Doltone House in Sydney on 26 October 2026.
About Restaurant & Catering Australia (R&CA)
Established in 1922, R&CA is the national industry association representing the interests of restaurants, cafes, and catering businesses across Australia.
