The launch coincides with September marking 25 years of this family-run gourmet institution and their smoked meats.

“We’ve been creating delicious stories in the Canberra region for 25 years now, and we’re thrilled today to officially launch the restored, renovated, reinvigorated and re-energised Poachers Pantry Smokehouse Restaurant and Wily Trout Cellar Door,” owner and managing director Susan Bruce said.

The renovated restaurant aims to continue its tradition of serving local wine and food to locals and visitors.

“For our family, it’s always been about welcoming visitors into our lives.

“Inviting them to experience the way we live, as the restaurant is part of our home,” she said.

Executive Director of VisitCanberra Ian Hill said the launch is timely because of additional direct flights into Canberra from domestic and international carriers, including Singapore Airlines’ Capital Express services and Tigerair’s direct route from Melbourne.

“People who come here may spend only a small amount on flights, to get from A to B, but once they land, they want to experience the best,” Hill said.

Husband and wife Rob and Susan Bruce built the original Poachers Pantry in 1991.

The vineyard launched in 1998 followed by the original café in 2002.

Ms Bruce says daughter Katie and son Will are creating new angles to the business for their livelihood and sustainability.

“Katie is firmly entrenched in the smokehouse and weddings, conferences side of things and Will is headed down the Vigneron path.

“The changing shape of the business going forward is about suiting demands, keeping up with the times and sustainability, but above all reflects our individual passions” she said.

The new layout of the restaurant seats 100 people inside while the terrace offers seating for also 100 people.

“The country charm of our original 1930s weatherboard cottage is staying, but the building has been modernised injecting new life into the place,” Ms Bruce said.

Lead builder Nigel Howard from Gotha Building said that “despite heavy rain during the June-July period, it’s all come together nicely”.