Ritual Cafe

Bottom of Little Nation Hotel, 21 National Circuit, Barton ACT 2600, Australia
+61 432 329 390
$$$ Cafe , Breakfast restaurant , Coffee shop
(135 Reviews)
Price Range $1–20

Welcome to Ritual Cafe, an inviting culinary gem located at the base of the Little National Hotel in Barton, ACT. This cafe has crafted a unique space for both locals and visitors, offering not just a meal, but a cherished experience in a bustling atmosphere.

The menu here reflects a balance of delightful simplicity and gourmet touches, making it perfect for anyone looking to indulge in quality fare. Start your day right with the Smashed Avo on toasted grain bread, loaded with fresh tomatoes and a super seed mix that pedestals the café's commitment to healthy yet comforting food. For a midday treat, the toasted sandwiches have become a staple for many, with options like the Reuben sandwich – a perfect medley of corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy Swiss cheese paired with zesty chili mayo. Other can’t-miss offerings include the Turkey sandwich served with a sweet cranberry sauce and the mouthwatering Salami version with roasted capsicum and pesto for that extra flavor hit. At A$13.90 each, these sandwiches are remarkably well-priced for the generous portions and delicious ingredients.

Your sweet tooth will also be pampered here, with an array of freshly baked cakes. Whether it’s the rich dark chocolate and hazelnut brownie or a classic Portuguese tart, you’re in for a treat at only A$5.00 each. The aroma of these pastries will draw you in, making it impossible to resist the urge to savor one alongside your coffee.

Speaking of coffee, Ritual Cafe is renowned for its warm and inviting brew, with a vibe that speaks to the art of coffee-making. According to one impressed customer, “the coffee was not too bad either.” The atmosphere thrives with the lively energy of local public servants and visitors alike, creating a community vibe. One satisfied diner, Daroy Cortwright, describes it as “bustling yet relaxed” – a perfect midday sanctuary.

The attentive staff further enhances the experience, consistently described as friendly and helpful by numerous regulars. A standout review highlighted a moment where staff members noticed a customer in distress and went out of their way to offer a kind gesture during a tough time. Such acts of kindness truly embody the spirit of Ritual Cafe.

In addition to its delicious offerings and friendly staff, Ritual Cafe's industrial decor of metal and wood creates an inviting ambiance, setting it apart from the typical cafe aesthetic. With everything on the menu crafted with care, whether you're stopping in for breakfast, lunch, or a decadent snack, you’re guaranteed a delightful experience.

In summary, Ritual Cafe is not just another stop on your journey through Canberra; it’s a destination in its own right. Next time you’re in the area, take a moment to honor your taste buds and indulge in the café’s myriad of flavorful delights.

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Service options
Has outdoor seating
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
No delivery
Highlights
Serves great coffee
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Popular for lunch
Good for solo dining
Good for working on laptop
Offerings
Serves coffee
Serves healthy options
Quick bite
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dessert
Has seating
Atmosphere
Casual
Trendy
Crowd
Good for groups
Planning
Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Openings Hours

Monday

7:30 AM - 3:30 PM

Tuesday

7:30 AM - 3:30 PM

Wednesday

7:30 AM - 3:30 PM

Thursday

7:30 AM - 3:30 PM

Friday

7:30 AM - 3:30 PM

Saturday

Closed

Sunday

Closed

135 Reviews
Michael McRoberts

07 Oct 2025

Great fit out and vibe, coffee was not too bad either. Only odd part was I asked to start a tab as I wanted to order a couple of items sequentially and they said they don’t do that... was odd. Anyways, certainly worth checking out!!!

노유진

23 Aug 2025

I cannot believe that this delicious sandwich is only $14.5 This place is really crowded with workers but I love that mood Also the staff was so nice and kind I higly recommend this cafe if ur planning to travel Canberraaaaaaa

jazz hands

04 Aug 2025

Wow! What an awesome cafe. Friendly staff, great coffee and plenty of options. My friend and I were thrilled to see vegetarian options in such a busy place. And Omg the cookies!

Monte Cristo

01 Aug 2025

I experienced an emergency event recently where I was urgently evacuated from my dwelling. Upon walking to Ritual cafe to get a coffee and think about what had just occurred, I realised after walking up to the door that the shop was closing up. As I was turning to walk away, two of the staff members, who must have been able to tell I was a bit shaken up, ran outside to catch up with me and ask me if I was ok. I explained to them the situation, they opened their doors and insisted I take safe refuge in the cafe. They not only provided me with the best lactose free Latte, and toasted sandwich I have had in Canberra, they refused to let me pay insisting “this one is on the house”… they kept the doors open for me well into the time they were meant to be closed, and as stated above we’re actually just closing right as I turned up. Thank you Ritual caffe for providing me safe refuge in my moment of need, thank you for your kindness and beautiful coffee (and toasty)

Daroy Cortwright

14 Jul 2025

The toasted sandwiches are a public servant staple. Ritual, tucked away under the Little National Hotel, has become our go-to for work lunches. It's bustling yet relaxed - a perfect spot for a midday break. Its metal and wood decor adds an industrial charm, setting it apart from the typical cozy cafe aesthetic. The service here never disappoints. Staff are consistently friendly, and the quick food delivery ensures our lunch breaks are well-spent. The standout? Definitely their toasties. There's one for every palate in our group, and each one hits the mark every time. Its convenient location, just a short walk from nearby offices, adds to the appeal. Plus, the food is reasonably priced, so it's great value for money. Oh, and they split bills - a godsend for group lunches. Check out Ritual for your next work lunch, you won't regret it!

Anne Harrison

09 Jul 2025

On a visit from the UK, I loved this cafe and remember it fondly . I had a delicious granola breakfast and latte. I loved the relaxed atmosphere and that it was clearly popular with local workers (including the local construction workers).

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