Smith's Alternative

Inside the historic, colonnaded Melbourne Building along Alinga Street, this beloved local institution operates as a cozy cafe and art gallery by day before morphing into a highly social, bohemian performing arts bar by night. Serving as a warm, safe sanctuary for Canberra’s creative community, the venue hosts live events nearly every single night of the year—spanning local and international jazz jams, folk, poetry readings, stand-up comedy, cabaret, and life drawing classes. The bar serves up fine coffee and in-house baked treats during the day, transitioning to craft beers, boutique wines, and simple toasted sandwiches as the live gigs kick off.

• museum
• history
• nightlife
• coffee

Address

Melbourne Building, 76 Alinga Street

Hours

Mon–Thu 7AM–midnight, Fri 7AM–3AM, Sat 9AM–3AM, Sun noon–midnight

Price

Drinks from $8; event tickets vary

Website

smithsalternative.com (opens in a new tab)