[1] Popular with lesbian women, it quickly became an icon of Canberra's LGBT scene.

[4] Tilley's originally had seating for 60, but subsequently expanded five times, and now has large indoor and outdoor eating areas.

It was once a popular space for night time concerts by local musicians, hosting names such as Wayne Kelly, Mia Dyson, Frente!,[5] and Clare Bowditch.

In 2005 concerts were scaled back in order to expand the more financially viable restaurant and café.

[6] According to ACT historian Roslyn Russell, it was the first licensed outdoor venue in Australia, and the first Australian bar to ban smoking indoors.