Food Drink

Botanic Lodge reopens its sunset dining this summer, with a focus on local flavours and lakeside serenity

Adelaide Botanic Garden’s ‘The Lodge’ is inviting diners to unwind lakeside this summer with the return of its intimate dinner service.

A CBD summertime dining spot has reopened its doors just in time for the warmer weather, bringing with them a menu filled with SA produce, contemporary flavours, and stunning Botanic Garden views. That’s right, Botanic Lodge, or ‘The Lodge’ has brought back its evening service, giving you a chance to enjoy the serenity of the gardens and a delicious meal to match once the gates have closed to the public.

The new spring and summer seasons, ‘Dine at Dusk’ are transforming The Lodge into one of Adelaide’s most picturesque dining destinations. Every Friday and Saturday night from 6pm, guests are invited to step away from the hustle and bustle of the east end and into their peaceful lakeside spot.

As the sun sets over the Main Lake, diners will get to enjoy an array of thoughtfully crafted dishes that celebrate the best of South Australian produce. The menu, shaped by seasonality and nostalgia, brings together familiar flavours that are turned on their head with fresh perspective. On the menu there’s everything from a Murray Cod, rock samphire sauce, zucchini salsa, sea greens, to a cheeky nod to childhood with a Golden Gaytime parfait for dessert.

The Botanic Lodge team shared, “A few guest favourites are returning with a fresh twist. The Tommy Ruff in bread and butter with iceberg and mayo brings a touch of nostalgia, while the Kingfish crudo with kohlrabi, horseradish and crispy saltbush captures the brightness of summer. The pumpkin with goat’s cheese, pepitas and walnut vinaigrette is a simple but beautifully balanced dish, highlighting local produce at its peak.

“The menu celebrates the season in full bloom – fresh, bright, and flavour-driven. Lighter, vibrant dishes take centre stage, inspired by what’s growing locally and across South Australia. Guests can expect flavours that feel familiar but reimagined, capturing the best of the warmer months.”

Guests can choose from an à la carte selection or follow the chef’s ‘Short Path’ ($85pp) or ‘Long Trail’ ($115pp) tasting menus. Each is designed to be shared and perfectly paced for long, leisurely evenings.

Named one of The Australian’s Hot 50 Restaurants, The Lodge has quickly become a local favourite. Designed with the perfect romantic dinner, a girls night celebration, or simply a peaceful escape from the week’s rush all in mind, dining here almost feels like you’re entering a secret part of Adelaide where nature leads the way.

As day becomes night, the Botanic Gardens become yours to explore. You can wander through the tranquil paths before dinner, then settle in to take in the native greenery and lakeside reflections as you dine.

Dinner service is now available Friday and Saturday nights from 6pm. Bookings are essential!

Botanic Lodge Dinner Service
When: Dinner service, Friday and Saturday nights from 6pm
Where: Main Lake (Kainka Wirra), Adelaide Botanic Garden, Plane Tree Drive, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Kaurna Land
For more information and to book, click here.

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