This month I have been doing a lot of flying, and that means doing a lot of eating…and drinking….a LOT of eating and drinking. Basically, only eating and drinking. When I am not working, I have somehow managed to incorporate the two and turn my meetings into food or drink dates. So I feel like by now I am a somewhat seasoned expert on the hottest places around, so why not share my favourite places that I have encountered with my readers who deserve only the best. So here is my comprehensive list of places to visit in Adelaide for food and drinking that are sure to impact you. I judge based on location, vibe, and the menu and presentation, so rest assured that I am providing you with only the best.
The city’s cafes and restaurants offer a wide variety of cuisines, and there are plenty of bars and pubs to choose from. Adelaide also has a number of wine regions, and the local produce is of excellent quality.
Places to visit in Adelaide for breakfast/brunch
Bar 9. One of Adelaide’s hottest spots (and my personal favourite), not only do they make outstanding brunch, but their coffee is on point 100% of the time. So if you are a coffee connoisseur, it’s best to give this place a go.
Places to visit in Adelaide for lunch/dinner
Sushi Planet. My current favourite and go-to contemporary Japanese restaurant. Adelaide was in dire need of a Nobu type Japanese restaurant and that is exactly what we got with this hot spot.
Chianti Classico. If you are into sophisticated, opulent dining, Chianti is just your place. Just say you are dressed up in your favourite Valentino rockstuds….you need to do them justice and have the food to match the outfit. One of Chianti’s aesthetically appealing mouthwatering dishes do just that and more.
Street + Orana. If experience is what you are after, Orana, the fine dining restaurant located above the more relaxed bar, Street, on Adelaide’s buzzing Rundle Street, must be high on your list. The exquisite and unique menu will leave your tastebuds buzzing, and I assure you that you will be back for more.
Sean’s Kitchen. Both are local and international favourites. This brand spanking new restaurant has turned the heads of those from Drake to Ed Sheeran and is guaranteed to be chocker blockers every night. The incredible food, lively atmosphere, and excellent location leave Sean’s kitchen on its own level of greatness that has to be seen to be believed. If you have one night in Adelaide, this is where you must go.
George’s on Waymouth. Whenever I have someone down in Adelaide I always send them to this local and internationally loved Mediterranean restaurant. They are guaranteed to have an unforgettable experience. Exquisite food and a stylish, modern and sophisticated decor leave George’s as one of Australia’s best.
Olea in Electra House. Located above Adelaide’s hot new bar is Electra House’s Olea. This restaurant is a triple threat. It has mouthwatering cuisine, the most alluring atmosphere, and boy, oh boy, does it provide an overall exceptional experience. This modern Green restaurant combines the desires of a modern palette with the traditional Greek culinary traditions. For outstanding food and a great experience, check this baby out.
Ruby Red Flamingo. Have a drink and a traditional hearty Italian homestyle meal while enjoying the ambience of the stylish outdoor alfresco area or more formal indoor seating. Although not brand new, it is very reputable and at the perfect location just off O’Connell Street.
Press Food and Wine. Perfect to end a hard day with a glass of wine in hand and a bunch of meals to share. Press focuses on the skilled craft of cooking and presents their dishes with such a unique flare. The tasty food has made it a local favourite in just a short time.
Etica. A classy and vibrant Italian pizza bar tucked away in Gilles Street serving drool-worthy pizza. Perfect for a chilly Winter’s night when you are after a nice hearty meal.
Places to visit in Adelaide for a drink
2KW Bar & Restaraunt. My strict starting point of the night. Regardless of where I am headed, I always give the glamorous 8th-floor rooftop a visit for a drink or two to check out the spectacular view (rain or shine – they have cover in Winter), mingle, and relax. It is popular all day long, with it also a favourite for a lunchtime feed and vino.
The Unley. Last night, I was sipping away on one or two delicious cocktails at the launch of one of Adelaide’s newest rooftop bars. With a laid back atmosphere and views over the buzzing Unley road, this revamp is already the talk of the town.
Collins Bar. Located at the front of the Hilton Hotel, the Collins Bar offers an incredible selection of delightful cocktails and nibbles to get your night started. On a side note, the truffle fries are an absolute must-have.
Electra House. Electra House is known for its sophistication and provides a classy indulgent night out if you want to be ahead of the rest.
Hains & Co. If you are after something entirely out of the ordinary, this nautical sailor-themed bar has put a 360-degree twist on your typical bar. With a delightful array of cheeses on offer and rum and gin as their forte, this brand new bar is classified by many as Adelaide’s classiest. The most exciting part is the lack of a drinks menu. It is a somewhat “what you see is what you get,” where you look at what is on offer behind the bar, and create your own masterpiece.
La Rambla. This fabulous Spanish Tapas bar located on the buzzing and lively Peel Street is definitely a place to stop by if a little Latino flavour is on the cards.
Maybe Mae. This ultra-unique bar is really one of a kind and offers a spectacular drinks list. It radiates opulence and keeps you busy for hours, so keep an eye on the time when giving this hidden gem a go.
In a nutshell
Adelaide has absolutely boomed in the food and drink department over the past decade and blossomed into a somewhat highly desirable city. What life was like before the eruption of stylish bars and restaurants….that I cannot answer. However, I hope I did satisfy your curiosity about what Adelaide has on offer. The cuisine options have quadrupled, and we have seen many stylish, hip and classy new bars and restaurants dribble in. There will always be a spot for Adelaide in my heart. These locations have made it even more desirable to regularly be back!
