Tilley’s Devine Café Gallery, is something of an institution in Canberra, now in operation for over 30years.
How does one describe this place? Permit me to quote from Sally Pryor ‘s article in the Canberra Times, 16 January 2003:
“With elegant, dark wood fittings, a moody, deep red colour scheme, and soft jazz wafting between the old-fashioned booths lining the walls, there is some things essentially nostalgic and cinematic about Tilley’s romantic atmosphere, reminiscent of a Hollywood film noir. It’s timeless in a way that’s hard to emulate in a youngish, fickle town like Canberra, where high turnover of night spots seem inevitably dictated by the relative hip-factor of the decor, the DJ and the cocktail menu.”
The décor hasn’t changed since nor is it likely to any time soon.
The décor makes sense when you know that the Café was named after the colourful Tilley Devine, Sydney’s infamous madam and ‘Bordello Queen’ of the 1920s.
In addition to (or perhaps over and above) being a standard café Tilley’s is a very highly regarded live music venue in Canberra hosting a wide range of Australian and International artists. (see its website below for concert details).
If you intend bringing you kids or you are of the noisy persuasion you should be aware of Tilley’s policy – “Noisy (i.e. audible) children will be asked to leave or relocate to the sidewalk areas (as will adults who are audible during performances).” This and a few other rules such as one (no longer in place) banning groups of males from drinking inside unless accompanied by at least one woman (allegedly after a group of army cadets attempted to force their way in, instigating a brawl) has caused more than a little commotion over the years.
Staff in the café (at least out front – I don’t know about the kitchen) are all tie-attired females and the café has a reputation for being a lesbian / gay favourite. This is certainly so, but the crowd is very mixed and every one is welcome and will feel very comfortable here.
This is a great please for a drink or coffee and cake, either inside or out. To be honest while their cakes are great their meals are acceptable but not great. This is a place you go to for the atmosphere and as such I suggest you go. Easy to wile away a few hours here as I often do.
Opening hours
Monday to Saturday – 9am till 10pm
Sunday – 9am till 6pm
Coffee Window – Opens 7.30am, 7 days.
Public Holidays – Generally, open at 9am – 5pm.
While not noted on their website they take a few weeks break in January.
Address: Corner of Brigalow & Wattle Streets, Lyneham
Directions: Lyneham Shops
Phone: (02) 6247 7753
Website: http://www.tilleys.com.au/
For my next CANBERRA – INNER NORTH review click HERE.
For other Canberra reviews click HERE.
The Rambling Wombat 