We are well and truly spoilt for choice when it comes to bars and restaurants in Adelaide, but sometimes all we’re after is a cute and intimate spot to cosy up in, especially as we move into winter.
We’ve narrowed down 10 venues that showcase the superb quality of South Australian hospitality in a teeny, tiny & tucked away spot – or at least it feels that way.
Restaurants
Aptos
Due to open this winter, Restaurant Aptos is the latest venture by acclaimed chef Justin James. While the restaurant will spread across the three levels of an old Stirling church, it will only seat 14 people, making it the ideal setting for an intimiate dining experience. Diners will enjoy a seasonal tasting menu of 16 courses, served not at a static table, but across three levels of the building. Be sure to set an alarm for this one. We’ll be right there next to you.
Where: 147 Mt Barker Road, Stirling 5152
When: Coming soon
To find out more, click here.
Yakitori Takumi
Not only does this gem only seat 36 people – and it feels like way less – it’s also the first yakitori izakaya in Australia. Founded in 2004, Yakitori Takumi offers an extensive menu of small dishes in a traditional yakitori setting. Think, melt-in-your-mouth pork belly and squid skewers, as well as Japanese classics like takoyaki (octopus balls) and gyoza (dumplings).
The set up has an open kitchen and counter seating so you can watch all the theatrics in the kitchen while you sip on your sake. This place is well-kept secret. It has made quite the impression on hospitality veterans and foodies who often frequent the place, and now you can be one of them.
Where: 60/55 Melbourne St, North Adelaide SA 5006
When: Tuesday to Thursday 6pm – 9:30pm, Friday & Saturday 6pm – 10pm
To find out more, click here.
Nina
Nestled behind the Sofitel Hotel at 38 Rosina Street, Niña is a vibrant Spanish-inspired restaurant serving up dishes like charred octopus with romesco sauce, mussels with tarragon aioli, and the very popular Basque cheesecake. It’s a modern take on Spanish cuisine and a hot little spot for a fun night out. The space itself is around five by seven metres and the kitchen makes up at least half, so don’t blink or you’ll miss it.
Where: 38 Rosina St, Adelaide SA 5000
When: Monday to Thursday 5pm – 10pm, Friday & Saturday 12pm – 11pm
To find out more, click here.
Mini Lokanta
This tiny little gem has gained quite the following lately for serving authentic Turkish dishes straight from the heart. Think slow-made, home-style dishes like manti, delicate Turkish dumplings swimming in garlic yoghurt, burnt butter and tomato sauce. When we say tiny, we mean tiny. It has just two tables, ten seats, and only opens Saturday nights. Make sure to book well in advance.
Where: 214 Gover St, North Adelaide SA 5006
When: Saturday 6pm – 10pm
To find out more, click here.
Sahara Moroccan Casbah
Tucked away in the corner of the city, Sahara Moroccan Casbah is a place that, at first glance, appears to be a humble rug shop. Step inside, however, and you’ll discover the flavours of Morocco, brought to you by owner Ali Arhbal.
It’s a retail-shop turned restaurant, but feels more like you’ve hired a private chef to cook in your eclectic, colourful and character-filled home. Booking this place feels like desperate calls vying for the attention of lovers past – equal parts hope and heartbreak. You have to be persistent, Ali only answers by phone, and will only book you in if he has ample time to prepare your meal from scratch. However, all is forgiven for the incredible hospitality and delicious menu that awaits.
Where: 187 Sturt St, Adelaide SA 5000
When: Upon request
To find out more, click here.
Bars
Pink Moon Saloon
Awarded Gourmet Traveller’s Australian Bar of the Year 2017, Pink Saloon has become an Adelaide institution. The venue nestles itself in what used to be an alleyway, creating an intimate atmosphere with a beautiful courtyard area that, despite its size, feels incredibly spacious.
What it lacks in size, it certainly makes up for in flavour. Expect a broad selection of classic and bespoke cocktails, using freshly squeezed juice and made with love. Try the wapple – watermelon, apple and gin – for a great time.
Where: 21 Leigh St, Adelaide SA 5000
When: Tuesday to Thursday 4pm – 11:30pm, Friday & Saturday 4pm – 2am
To find out more, click here.
LOC
LOC Bottle Bar, set overlooking the peaceful Hindmarsh Square, is a wine bar and restaurant that focuses on all things organic and minimal intervention. This place oozes effortlessly cool and, while there’s generous outdoor seating, the inside feels more like a home dining space – one belonging to someone with exceptional taste. The communal bench operates as both bar seating and a kitchen for a revolving door of chefs. Intimate, unpretentious and cosy – its the perfect spot to enjoy a wine and a bite solo or with a few friends.
Where: 6 Hindmarsh Square, Adelaide SA 5000
When: Sunday, Monday Wednesday & Thursday 3pm – 11pm, Friday & Saturday 3pm – 12am
To find out more, click here.
Bar Peripheral
Labelling itself as “Not for everyone,” this bespoke cockatil bar has only 12 seats, with no standing and no more than 4 people in one group. There’s rules, but if a dark, intimate and quiet bar with drinks specifically tailored to your preferences is what you’re after, this one is for you.
Where: 447 Pulteney St, Adelaide SA 5000
When: Monday to Saturday 7pm – 12am
To find out more, click here.
Baddog
As it says in bold LED lights, no cocktails. This bar is well and truly an under-the-radar spot that attracts a specific niche. Unassuming from the front, it’s just a door with a LED light and if the light’s on, they’re open. It’s the kind of place you still can’t find even with Google Maps but, the vibe, the music and the hand-picked whiskey collection make it a celebrated spot and a lot of fun. Come and see for yourself, just keep your eyes peeled.
Where: 63 Hyde St, Adelaide SA
When: Monday to Thursday 6pm – 12am, Friday 5pm – 12am & Saturday 7pm – 12am
To find out more, click here.
Lost Tide | York Peninsula
Tucked away in Stansbury on the beautiful Yorke Peninsula, this micro-distillery serves up premium small-batch gin, liqueurs and vodka with an Australian twist. With only a license for 12 people, it’s as exclusive as a bar can get. All be it tiny, the place remains a popular hotspot all year round, so be sure to book ahead if you’re wanting to pay a visit.
Where: 4a Anzac Parade, Stansbury, Southern Yorke Peninsula 5582
When: Friday, Saturday and Sunday 12pm – 5pm | Private tastings by appointment
To find out more, click here.
After more guidance? Allow us.
For what’s on this week, click here.
For a school holiday guide, click here.
For the best restaurants this Gather Round, click here.
For the best brunch spots, click here.
For the best late-night dining spots, click here.
More News
