King O'Malley's

In Civic, Canberra, King O’Malley’s is an Irish pub built around all-day dining, conversation and a strong sense of place. The kitchen serves familiar pub food from noon through to late, seven days a week, making it suitable for a casual lunch, a substantial dinner or a late-night drink. The menu covers burgers, pizzas, seafood, steaks, schnitzels, pies and share plates, with children’s meals also available. Named favourites include the homemade pie, chicken parmigiana, fish and chips, Scotch fillet steak and O’Malley’s salad, while the pizza selection includes Margherita, veggie and BBQ meat lovers options.

The venue’s character comes from more than its Irish styling. Its walls tell the story of King O’Malley, the colourful politician and former insurance salesman after whom the pub is named. O’Malley was involved in Canberra’s early development and signed off on Walter Burley Griffin’s successful design for the national capital. He also advocated prohibition in the territory, which lasted from 1910 to 1928 — an amusing contradiction for the namesake of a pub that welcomes guests for dinner, live music and a pint of Guinness. Historical artefacts and displays throughout the venue add plenty to look at between conversations.

There are several ways to settle in. The pub describes its atmosphere as warm and welcoming, with Irish charm, friendly conversation and a fire for colder evenings. The site also positions it as a place to watch the city go by, enjoy live music or share a meal with friends. That makes it a flexible choice for a solo lunch at the bar, a relaxed meal with family, or an evening with mates. In October 2025, it was recognised at the AHA ACT Awards for Best Outdoor Dining Experience and Best Live Music Venue, reflecting the venue’s focus on food, hospitality and entertainment.

King O’Malley’s also caters for private events and group occasions in the heart of Canberra. Its function spaces range from the intimate Snug Room for around 25 people to the Castle Room, Guinness Room and combined Arcade space, which can accommodate larger gatherings of up to 150 guests. The rooms have distinct features, including bookshelves and historic tomes in the Snug, while the Castle and Guinness rooms can be opened together for seated or cocktail-style events. With function options for company lunches, birthdays and private celebrations, it suits groups that want a pub setting with dedicated spaces rather than a standard table in the main bar.