Cafes

Feed your curiosity at one of our on-site cafes. Bookplate and Paperplate offer delicious food in beautiful settings that invite you to linger just a little longer.

Bookplate cafe

Nestled amidst stunning Leonard French stained-glass windows, Bookplate provides a serene and beautiful setting to enjoy your coffee, brunch, or lunch. With its expansive outdoor terrace, Ex Libris, overlooking Lake Burley Griffin and the Patrick White Lawns, it's an ideal spot to relax with friends or savour a quiet moment in the sun.

Reserve a table

Opening hours

Easter long weekend opening hours: Bookplate will be closed on Good Friday, and be open from 9am to 4:30pm on Saturday, Sunday and Monday.

Monday to Friday: 8:30am to 4pm
Saturday and Sunday: 9am to 4pm
Closed on Christmas Day and Good Friday

Bookplate cafe

About Bookplate

Catering plate set up with tasty pastry bites

Events at Bookplate

Scrambled eggs, avocado, tomato and bacon

Fish and chips with a glass of rose wine

Visitors of bookplate, the menu chalkboards and stained-glass windows in the background

Paperplate cafe

Nestled downstairs, Paperplate is your go-to for lighter fare. This cosy spot serves up freshly made daily salads, sandwiches, house-made sausage rolls, pies, and an array of sweet treats alongside expertly crafted barista coffee. Whether you're on a quick lunch break or exploring the library, Paperplate offers a convenient and welcoming atmosphere to recharge and refuel.