The Tradies (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is The Tradies?
Essence Restaurant, Canberra Wine House and lounge shows give couples varied date-night choices in one venue, but the setting is a standard club rather than a uniquely romantic attraction.
Positives:
- Multiple venues in one spot: Access dining, bars and live entertainment without traveling between locations.
- Complimentary amenities: Enjoy free WiFi and live music with no cover charge.
Challenges:
- Advance bookings recommended: Essence Restaurant fills up quickly on weekends; book at least a day ahead.
- Parking may incur fees: Non-members pay for underground parking during peak hours.
What is The Tradies?
- A community club complex in Dickson housing a lounge bar, a café and a contemporary restaurant
- A multi-purpose venue featuring a 24/7 fitness centre, an on-site barbershop and underground parking
- An extensive facility combining hospitality outlets with leisure and service amenities on a single site
What is so special about The Tradies for couple trip?
- Variety of intimate dining and bar venues tailored for couples.
- Seasonal modern Australian menu at Essence Restaurant.
- 1920s-style speakeasy Wine House with curated local wines.
- Free live music and WiFi enhancing the lounge bar experience.
- Convenient on-site parking and all-in-one location.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Allows time for a meal, drinks and live music across multiple venues without rushing.
Couple-Friendly Activities in The Tradies
Dinner at Essence Restaurant:
Try seasonally-driven modern Australian dishes paired with cool-climate wines in an intimate setting.
Tip: Book a table facing the open kitchen for a vibrant atmosphere.
Sip regional wines at The Canberra Wine House:
Explore curated Canberra district wines in a 1920s-style speakeasy.
Tip: Ask the sommelier for off-menu wine flights for two.
Enjoy live music at The Lounge Bar:
Listen to local artists while enjoying craft beers and cocktails.
Tip: Arrive by 7pm on weekends to secure a cozy seat near the stage.
Brunch at Bluey’s Cafe:
Relax over breakfast burgers and Wagonga-bean espresso indoors or on the terrace.
Tip: Reserve outdoor seating for pleasant weather and people watching.
When is the best time to visit The Tradies (Canberra, Australia)?
During Canberra’s crisp winters, warm up with mulled wine at the Wine House. In summer, choose outdoor seating at Bluey’s Cafe for a breezy brunch. Check the live music schedule before visiting, as performances peak on Friday nights.
Explore These Activities
Reviews of The Tradies (Canberra)
chloe hancock
Partner and I came for dinner the other night. Got garlic prawns, entree salt and pepper squid & the 500g chicken schnitzel. Food was decent, a bit pricey as a non member, 100$ for the three meals, could be better but wasn't the worst
Rachel Bowker
Nice meal, albeit a bit expensive for what it was. The kicker being charged $2.50 for tomato sauce for my child's chips, on top of the $18 kids meal! Relaxed atmosphere and decent cocktails.
Bill Perkovic
We are at The Tradies for lunch 😋, my friends are there for the first time in the club. The wonderful staff at the entrance helped us to the club 😀, thanks 😀 💙. In the dining room 😌, helpful staff show 👌 our table 😀. Back at the Tradies after five years, reviewing the club's new look and what they offer. The Tradies are over 61 years old this year and had their anniversary ❤️ last year ...
S S
Tradies Essence Restaurant – A Prison Camp Dining Experience! 1 February 2025 Let me paint a picture for you—you’re in a World War II prisoner camp. You’re handed a plate, told to eat what you’re given, no extras, no modifications, no complaints allowed. Sounds grim, doesn’t it? Well, welcome to Tradies Essence Restaurant! I ordered their Legendary 500g Loaded Schnitzel with BBQ Meat Lovers topp...
AR Hg
Excellent joint! Clean, well-maintained, well equipped room. Gaming floor is huge and right underneath the hotel. Bistro and cafe are not bad at all.
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Dinner at Essence Restaurant | AUD 140 |
| Drinks at Canberra Wine House | AUD 50 |
| Brunch at Bluey’s Cafe | AUD 30 |
| Parking (non-member) | AUD 5 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 225 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
How to Maximize Your Visit to The Tradies
- Combine experiences: Start with brunch, then return for dinner and drinks in one visit.
- Visit off-peak: Weekday evenings are quieter and ideal for a relaxed date night.
Map of The Tradies
Address: 2 Badham St, Dickson ACT 2602, Australia
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About The Tradies
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+61 2 6162 5656See available options
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