South Australia’s Summer saw the unveiling of eight new bars, each adding something new to our hospitality scene.
From the historic port of Adelaide to the bustling CBD, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a nostalgic journey back to the 1980s, rustic charm, or a sports haven with 360-degree LED screens, we can guarantee there’s a new venue in this list you’ll want to check out.
10 Gallon Hat – Port Adelaide
Step into the all-new dimly-lit small bar, 10 Gallon Hat, in the heart of the historic Port Adelaide. The 1880’s built venue is blending American charm with great Australian hospitality.
From the moment you cross the threshold, you’re whisked away to a world brimming with old-world allure. Antique furniture graces the space, an old piano stands strong with beer skulls and candles burning, all while cowboy boots line the walls – it’s all setting the scene for a truly rustic bar experience.
For more information, head here.
Nightshade – Adelaide’s CBD
A new nostalgic style retro 80s bar called Nightshade has opened in Adelaide’s West End, and it happens to be the latest venture from the creative minds behind the beloved Cry Baby bar. Situated between the ever-popular Cry Baby and Sunny’s Pizza (in the previous 1000 Island space), Nightshade Bar is inspired by the neon-soaked, synth-pop era of the 1980s.
Nightshade boasts a curated drinks menu that pays homage to iconic 80s cocktails, with everything from classic martinis with overgrown green olives to vibrant blue concoctions adorned with “shitty maraschino cherries”.
For more information, head here.
Sportys Bar – Fullarton
While technically not ‘new’, Sportys Bar at the Arkaba Hotel has unveiled its cutting-edge renovation, featuring Australia’s first 360-degree LED screen, dubbed The Funnel.
After a meticulous six-month refurbishment, Sportys has not only expanded its viewing capacity but has also enhanced its comfort and entertainment options. The bar now boasts a state-of-the-art LED screen, a cozy outdoor area with booth seating and a fireplace, alongside new entertainment amenities like shuffleboard, digital darts, and a pool table.
For more information, head here.
Punch – Fulham
Newest hotspot Punch is an unassuming bar nestled between a massage parlour and a laundromat in the West revolutionising the take-home booze scene. The bar itself is a find, with a laid-back atmosphere filled with natural light, making it a perfect escape from the everyday.
But there’s more to PUNCH than a cool space. They’re revolutionising the drink-and-dash culture with their take-home cocktails in cans. This innovative approach offers a new level of convenience and quality, allowing patrons to savour PUNCH’s signature drinks, like their take on a Tom Collins, anytime, anywhere.
“We’re the first in Adelaide doing this,” owner Jameson notes.
For more information, head here.
SORA – Adelaide’s CBD
Adelaide recently got a new addition to its skyline with the grand opening of Sora – a venue said to be setting a new standard in premium rooftop dining and entertainment on Pirie Street. While it also houses a restaurant, the bar there has breathtaking panoramic views and offers offer a unique multi-level experience where patrons can seamlessly transition between dining and entertainment without leaving the venue.
The venue offers expertly crafted cocktails in its chic bar, and a dynamic dance floor setting the stage for vibrant evenings.
For more information, head here.
Ern Malley – Stepney
A brand new bar came onto the scene in Adelaide last November, but it opened in 1943.
That’s right. In a cheeky nod to one of Australia’s most infamous literary hoaxes, the new bar Ern Malley promises to combine, wine, jazz, poetry and a love of history and the eccentric in one new Eastern suburbs hotspot.
For more information, head here.
Sugar – Adelaide’s CBD
The iconic East End venue, Sugar, was resurrected over Summer from Gonzo Group – a growing hospitality business that owns venues Cry Baby, Shotgun Willie’s, Memphis Slim’s House of Blues and El Camino. After almost a year closed, the venue reopened with a recently updated venue fit, revamped Funktion-One sound system and will be backed by new lighting rigs.
While it’s a little more of what some may call a ‘club’ with Hip hop tunes and variou s DJs playing great tunes, it’s a great spot to hang to enjoy a few drinks with friends.
For more information, head to the Instagram here.
Station Lane – Adelaide’s CBD
This bar opened just in the nick of time to consider it new during the ‘Summer’ period. Station Lane Pop-Up Bar at SkyCity Adelaide is collaborating with Pirate Life Brewing to let people connect, relax, and immerse themselves in the AFL excitement.
The new venue boasts a variety of seating options including high tables, stools, cabana-style booths equipped with electric heaters for chilly winter evenings, large-screen TVs broadcasting every Adelaide and Port Adelaide AFL game live and DJs. It’s a its fusion of beer garden ambiance, diverse beverage selection, great food offerings.
For more information, head here.