If you’re a sweet tooth looking for a new (and slightly healthier) treat this festival season, you’re in luck. Over the last couple of months, a new foodie destination has been popping up at a handful of Adelaide’s fantastic markets and events, and while it might look simple at first, this idea is anything but ordinary.
Fresh bananas, frozen and creamy, dipped on-site in delicious Belgian chocolate and finished with your choice of toppings, are what The Banana Bar is all about. There are no gimmicks and no overcomplication, just a nostalgic dessert reimagined.
Run by an Adelaide couple with a love for simple dishes done right, the business was born from a craving for something indulgent. For co-owner Christine, the idea goes back to a teenage holiday in Brisbane. “I had my first frozen chocolate banana when I was about 15,” she shared. “It was the most delicious thing I’d ever had. I’ve literally been thinking about it ever since. I have not seen a frozen banana dipped in chocolate since then. It’s not really a thing here.”
Christine says frozen banana stands are common in beach towns across South America and the United States, but they’re surprisingly rare in Australia. After spotting one on TikTok, Christine sent the video to her partner, only to discover he had been thinking about the same business idea for six years. That same day, they registered the business name and committed to starting something new.
They officially launched in September last year, testing their flavours and concepts with friends and family before setting up a small marquee at a park for a soft opening. Their first major event was at The Big Bounce Australia this summer, which saw them sell out completely over a weekend.
For those unsure about the idea, Christine says their critics are usually won over quickly. “People say, ‘I hate bananas’ or ‘yuck, frozen banana,’ but once they try it, they’re shocked. A lot of people say it tastes just like ice cream.”
When frozen, bananas develop a creamy texture that is smooth, thick and totally indulgent. Christine says the result is surprisingly like ice cream, but less heavy on the stomach. Their slogan sums it up perfectly, “Just like ice cream, but better.”
Each banana is dipped to order in milk chocolate. It can be enjoyed just like that, or customised with toppings like toasted coconut, crushed Biscoff with sauce, Crunchy Nut cereal, roasted peanuts with peanut butter drizzle, and their most popular option, Pistachio Crunch with toasted kataifi pastry and pistachio sauce.
The Banana Bar will continue to pop up at markets and events all around the city. During Fringe season, they’ll be at the Ebenezer Night Markets on Saturday nights, just a short walk from the popular Fringe precincts. There are also ambitions to head to events like the Royal Adelaide Show, but Christine says to keep an eye out on their socials to see where they’ll be.
So if you’re looking for an indulgent, summery sweet treat, this could be just the thing.
For more information, follow The Banana Bar on Instagram @thebananabar_au.
