From Coffee to Comfort: Exploring Two Before Ten and The Denman Kitchen

Whether you’re grabbing some meat from the Denman Village Shop’s Supa-Express for a classic barbecue in one of the suburb’s many scenic parks, enjoying a coffee and a bite at Two Before Ten Café, or gathering with friends for a relaxed meal and drinks at The Denman Kitchen, dining in Denman Prospect is always an experience worth savouring.

But did you know that Two Before Ten and The Denman Kitchen – both located at Denman Village Shops – are owned by one of Canberra’s most renowned hospitality moguls, Chris Dennis? The same Chris who revolutionised the city’s café culture with the iconic Two Before Ten brand, now with multiple locations across the capital including a roastery and urban farm.

What’s more, Chris and his family made the move to Denman Prospect just over two years ago.

“I’ve lived all over Canberra – I grew up in Tuggeranong, spent time on the Northside, in Woden, and even lived regionally in Yass,” Chris shares. “But when I was thinking about my next move, I reflected on what I truly wanted – access to nature, the bush, the freedom to run or ride, and easy commuting. Denman Prospect offers all of that. It’s the best of what Canberra was designed to be.”

“The nearby leisure centre, ovals, incredible parks and playgrounds within walking distance, world-class mountain biking trails – everything here is built for an active, community-focused lifestyle. Denman Prospect truly embodies the spirit of Canberra. And I’ve heard the café is pretty great too,” he adds with a smile.

Chris took over the café just over a year ago, transforming it into a welcoming community hub for locals and visitors alike. It’s become the go-to spot for delicious, everyday food and Chris’s famous locally roasted coffee, all served at affordable prices.

“When I saw the opportunity, I knew I had to take it. This suburb is a prime example of how private companies can shape a community, so I jumped at the chance,” Chris says.

“Our cafés are places where people feel they belong. It’s not just about great food and coffee – it’s about creating a space where you can work, meet friends, or even grab a quick bite after the kids play at the amazing new astronomy-themed playground just across the road."

After a refurbishment, Chris opened The Denman Kitchen next door a few months later. Designed as a family-friendly gastro pub, it offers a nose-to-tail dining experience, featuring high-quality pub food with all the classics, alongside versatile dining spaces designed to suit every occasion.

“We’ve got different seating areas for different needs – the booths are perfect on a Sunday, filled with families and kids. The dining room offers table service, while the pub area in the middle is more casual,” Chris explains.

“On warm days, we open up the bifold doors to let in the fresh breeze and offer incredible views.”

Chris emphasises that his pub isn’t just a place to eat and drink – it’s about fostering a true sense of community. His goal is for neighbours to go from waving on the street to gathering over a meal at his restaurants.

Looking ahead, Chris has big plans as Denman Prospect continues to grow.

“The suburb is only halfway built, and this café will be the heart of it. We want to be an integral part of Denman Prospect’s evolution,” he says.

“We’ve also launched a run club in partnership with Running for Resilience, and we’re excited to embrace the diverse cultural communities here, hosting gatherings for events like Chinese New Year and Diwali.”

Chris also plans to expand his involvement in the local community with workshops, cooking classes, sponsorships, and by hiring more local young people.

Whether you're after a casual coffee, a hearty meal, or a place to unwind with friends, Denman Prospect’s thriving dining scene, including Chris’ Two Before Ten Café and The Denman Kitchen, is the perfect destination.