"Louis Couttoupes brings 11th-arrondissement bistronomy to Kingston — a hatted, fire-driven small-plates room with one of Canberra's best wine lists."
About Onzième
Onzième is the Kingston small-plates room of chef Louis Couttoupes, who left Bar Rochford, cooked overseas, and took his name and tempo from the 11th arrondissement of Paris — the birthplace of modern bistronomy. The 30-seat restaurant sits in Green Square, with a wine nook, Bar à Vin, tucked into the former bank vault beneath the building. It holds an Australian Good Food Guide Chef's Hat, scored 12/20.
The menu is written each day on the grid window — super seasonal, vegetable-forward and nose-to-tail. Small plates run roughly A$18–40; groups of four or more take a A$95 prix fixe.
The Kitchen
Cooking is built around fire and coals: foraged Canberra-region produce, mutton skewers, kingfish head and duck all pass over the embers. The kitchen is committed to beautiful vegetables and to using the whole animal, and the natural-wine list is treated as an equal partner rather than an afterthought.
It is precise, ingredient-led food that rewards ordering widely and drinking adventurously.
The Room
The room is intimate and energetic — Parisian-inspired warmth, wood smoke and a serious cellar. Downstairs, the bank-vault Bar à Vin is one of the better places in Canberra to drink natural wine by the glass. Compare the Kingston scene with Pilot or Courgette.
Best for First Date
It is a strong first date — small plates to share, wine to talk about, low-pressure intimacy — and an easy anniversary for couples who love to drink well.
Not for
Not for a large set-piece celebration or anyone who wants a fixed, predictable menu — the card changes daily and the room is small and convivial, not formal.
Frequently Asked
Who is the chef at Onzième?
Louis Couttoupes, formerly of Bar Rochford, who modelled the restaurant on the bistronomy of Paris' 11th arrondissement.
How much does Onzième cost?
Small plates run about A$18–40; groups of four or more take a A$95 per person prix fixe.
Where is Onzième?
In Green Square, Kingston, on Eyre Street, with a Bar à Vin wine bar in the former bank vault below.
Is Onzième hatted?
Yes — it holds an Australian Good Food Guide Chef's Hat, scored 12/20.
What kind of food is it?
French-influenced contemporary Australian small plates cooked over fire, with a standout natural-wine list.
Reserve a Table
Reserve at Onzième
Book Tuesday to Saturday; groups of four or more take the A$95 prix fixe.
Affiliate disclosure: Restaurants for Kings may earn a commission when you book through our reservation links, at no cost to you. Our scores are editorial and never paid for.
Practical Information
Address27/29 Eyre Street, Kingston ACT 2604
NeighbourhoodGreen Square, Kingston
CuisineFrench-Australian · Small plates
PriceSmall plates A$18–40; prix fixe A$95pp (groups 4+)
Dress CodeSmart casual
Seating30 seats + Bar à Vin
ReservationRecommended Tue–Sat
