Pilot. - Ainslie

I had a delightful experience at this restaurant. The green tea appetizer was a unique touch, and the oyster served in a frothy, milky sauce was equally intrigu... read more I had a delightful experience at this restaurant. The green tea appetizer was a unique touch, and the oyster served in a frothy, milky sauce was equally intriguing. However, the mackerel was somewhat disappointing; it was a bit dry and tough. That said, everything that followed was fantastic, including the crispy chicken, freshly baked rolls, and an exquisite foamed dessert. While the suburban location and simple decor may not elevate the dining experience as much as some of its competitors, the friendly and attentive service, along with the quality of the food, more than makes up for it.

Two years after our last visit, we returned to enjoy another amazing dining experience at this restaurant. The process is simple—just make a reservation and let... read more Two years after our last visit, we returned to enjoy another amazing dining experience at this restaurant. The process is simple—just make a reservation and let the chefs take care of the rest, as the only option now is their set course menu. You can select your wine from their limited list by the bottle or glass, or choose to add the wine pairing experience. Once again, it was a delightful journey through unique and creative dishes, with excellent service and food. Although the menu consists of set courses, they are accommodating to most dietary restrictions, and the gluten-free options were outstanding. While the menu changes frequently, they provide a list afterwards, which I’ve attached for reference. This isn’t the place for a traditional starter and main course, but if you're looking to explore new and exciting culinary creations, few places in Canberra do it as well as Pilot.

Canberra, Ainslie Great to be able to dine at a casual fine dining restaurant. Seated outside which is a pleasant surround. Food was generally excellent and loo... read more Canberra, Ainslie Great to be able to dine at a casual fine dining restaurant. Seated outside which is a pleasant surround. Food was generally excellent and look appetising. Pork dish was probably a little off the mark. Wine description may be a little more brief. Nice change from the usual formal fine dining.

We had visited Pilot once before, years ago, and loved it so much that we chose to return on our wedding night with our bridal party! It did not disappoint on s... read more We had visited Pilot once before, years ago, and loved it so much that we chose to return on our wedding night with our bridal party! It did not disappoint on such a significant occasion. The food was as delicious as we remembered, the drinks were unique and incredibly tasty, and the service was outstanding. Half of our group had dietary restrictions, but that was no problem at all. We can't wait to return for another special occasion!

I was really impressed with my dining experience at Pilot. The food was creative, adventurous and highly original. Each course was well thought out and sparkled... read more I was really impressed with my dining experience at Pilot. The food was creative, adventurous and highly original. Each course was well thought out and sparkled with taste and high imagination. The Chef has really raised the bar for Canberra. The service was impeccable and staff were professional without being overly attentive. They had the balance of things well calibrated. I liked the fact that the decor was not trying too hard and seemed appropriate for a small suburban shopping Centre. I thought the whole experience was quietly sophisticated and recommend Pilot to those who are looking for something refreshingly different. Well done to the owners and the team. You are onto a winner!