Images: Bowden Cellars
Bowden Cellars is bringing its kitchen back in-house next week, unveiling a brand-new menu led by Chef Justin Penman.
For the past few months the venue has called up cult-favourite burger makers Good Burger for a residency that fit perfectly with the space. It’s safe to say this has been an absolute hit, and while it’s bittersweet seeing the residency come to a close, we’ve got one final weekend to enjoy back-to-basics, beautifully done burgers, and rounds upon rounds of moreish fried chicken.
Now, at the close of the Good Burger residency, the venue is returning to its original plan of having its own in-house team at the helm. This weekend will mark the final service for Good Burger’s tailored menu, before Chef Justin Penman takes over.
From Wednesday 24 September, Chef Penman will lead the culinary direction, bringing a fresh iteration of Bowden Cellars’ food offering designed to complement its evolving wine list. Good Prospects Group’s Sam Davidson said the new menu will be “approachable, seasonal, and full of flavour. Food that pairs seamlessly with the wines, beers, and spirits Bowden Cellars is known for.”
“The goal is to deliver dishes that are great quality but not overworked, perfect for a casual drink with friends or a night out,” Sam added.
While Bowden Cellars is thrilled to have Penman leading the kitchen in-house, Sam hinted there’s still room for more collaborations down the line. “We are thrilled to have JP bringing things in-house, but that doesn’t mean we don’t have space for potential future collaborations. Watch this space!”
The Plant 3 and 4 precincts have continued to grow and change, always attracting a laidback party-ready clientele to match the suburb. The suburb and its surrounds’ residential footprint is also on the rise with Brompton Gasworks, ARC Bowden, and Southwark Grounds all soon to welcome their first residents. Recently, Bowden Brewing also expanded while adding a new pizza joint Lucky’s.
“The whole precinct has lifted,” Sam said. “With Bowden Brewing bringing their energy and craft beer offering right next door, the area feels more vibrant and connected than ever. It’s created a real sense of momentum. Bowden is fast becoming a go-to hub for food and drink lovers in Adelaide.”
As for the main drawcard of the relaunch, Sam said it’s the harmony between kitchen and bar. “JP’s menu has been designed with our drinks offering in mind, so there’s a real synergy between what’s on the plate and what’s in your glass. People will come for the wine, stay for the food, and discover how seamlessly the two play together.”
The boutique wine bar and bottle shop in Plant 3 Bowden has become this inner-suburb’s go-to for local producers, wines, craft beers, and spirits. With lively staff always at the ready, you’re guaranteed to get a fresh, unfamiliar and exciting recommendation on your takeaway bottle. Or if you’re staying for a drink or two, the atmosphere is always lively, laidback, and ever-so-Bowden.
Bowden Cellars
Where: Plant 3, Red Shed Lane, Bowden
When: Kitchen reopens on Wednesday, 24 September
For more information, click here.
