After much anticipation and a journey filled with taste tests and fine-tuning, Aces has finally thrown open its doors in the heart of Adelaide’s Chinatown, under the expert guidance of chef Tom Tilbury.
Following more than half a year of preparations and a series of family and friends nights aimed at perfecting their offerings, Aces has transformed into a haven of simple, stylish Italian fare, served in a novel yum cha style that promises a taste of everything.
The establishment, beloved by Central Market stallholders and Adelaide foodies alike for over three decades, has relocated to a prime spot at 96 Gouger St., right next to the Chinatown mall. This strategic move not only positions Aces amid the vibrant Gouger Street dining scene but also allows diners to enjoy their meals with a view of the iconic Chinatown arches.
“Gouger Street has always been a dining street, when people go for a meal in the city they look to the street as a good option. It has got a lot of history; I’ve got so many fond memories, dining on Gouger Street and going to the Central Market to pick up produce. It is such a cool part of the city,” Tom says.
The new Aces showcases a significant transformation from its original ‘pizza bar’ concept to an elevated dining experience, while still maintaining the lively, communal atmosphere it’s known for. The decor, inspired by 1980s Italian flair, features 18th-century-style crockery from the renowned Italian company Ginori 1735, ensuring that every detail contributes to the unique dining ambiance.
The red velvet booths, and the checkerboard flooring gives a retro, throwback
Tilbury’s menu is a love letter to Italian cuisine, starting with an assortment of small plates designed for sharing. From pasta-focused dishes to a whole fish and various proteins, the menu invites diners to explore the breadth of Italian flavours. There’s the arancini balls with a sardine twist, or a simple meatball dish that will have your mouth watering.
For those seeking a curated dining experience, three set menus offer a guided tour of Aces’ culinary delights. The ‘Yum Ciao’ lunch service, a playful Italian twist on traditional Chinese yum cha, encapsulates the restaurant’s innovative approach to communal dining.
Tilbury’s passion for local produce and close relationships with farmers and producers shine through in every dish, ensuring that diners enjoy the freshest and most authentic flavours. With an open kitchen that invites interaction, ACES offers an engaging dining experience that echoes the Italian tradition of sharing food and fostering community.
So. Aces is expected to be open for lunch and dinner, but for their launch day, it’s just open at night. They’re taking bookings over the phone.
Aces will serve lunch and dinner from Tuesday to Saturday. Visit Aces on Instagram.
WHAT: Aces Restaurant.
WHERE: 96 Gouger St, Adelaide, SA, 5000.
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