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Nestled in one of Australia’s premier wine regions, The UPPside makes the most of its stunning location, using fresh local produce to create unique and memorable culinary experiences for guests. Their commitment to delivering consistently exceptional dining has captured the attention of the UK’s LUXlife Magazine, earning them the title of ‘Best European Restaurant’ in the 2026 Travel and Tourism Awards.
Despite this global recognition, the team remains committed to “bringing the Clare Valley to your table.” Their ethos, “by locals, supporting locals, showcasing locals, reflects a deep respect for homegrown, farm-fresh ingredients and a commitment to crafting an exciting European-inspired menu infused with a distinctly warm Australian spirit.
The restaurant is no stranger to awards, having accumulated an impressive list of accolades over the years. In 2024, the family-owned business was named Best South Australian European Restaurant and secured the Bronze Award for Best European Restaurant in Australia.
The latest accolade comes from LUXlife Magazine, a UK publication focused on premium lifestyle experiences and luxury travel content. Through its annual Travel & Tourism Awards, LUXlife celebrates outstanding hotels, restaurants, destinations and tourism businesses that demonstrate excellence, innovation and exceptional guest experiences. In the 2026 awards, The UPPside was named ‘Best European Restaurant’, an incredible achievement considering the global talent pool it was competing against.
Due to the restaurant’s rural location (less than 150 residents in the local town), owners Caity and Christian Uppill explained that their focus is on capturing the hearts of tourists who come from other parts of Australia and the world, showcasing what the Clare Valley has to offer.
“We wanted to make Clare Valley more of a food and wine destination,” Christian explained.
The European-inspired menu of UPPside is deeply personal to the owners. Caity’s Polish heritage can be found throughout the menu, while Christian’s extensive travels throughout Europe left a lasting impression on him, which can be felt throughout his inspired menu design.
“Whenever you hear the term ‘European restaurant’ in Australia, you normally think of one cuisine, it’s Italian, Greek or classic French. I wanted to create something where we could explore the entire continent, from Portugal to Poland and everything in between.”
Christian explains that many European cuisines remain underrepresented in South Australia’s dining scene, from regions like Ukraine and Poland to parts of Central Europe, and he’s proud to showcase these cultures through the restaurant’s menu.
The team caters to a wide range of guests, ensuring there’s something for every type of traveller passing through the region.
“We do everything from Italian pizzas to traditional à la carte dining. You can enjoy anything from a casual pizza and vino on the deck to a gin and gelato experience,” he said.
“We also have a ‘feed me’ menu, and next week we’re launching an eight-course degustation. We’re really aiming at the foodies with this. We’ve got something for everyone, whether you just want a casual pizza or you’re a full-blown foodie ready for an eight-course European culinary journey.”
Guests certainly won’t be left thirsty either, thanks to the restaurant’s new ‘Sip and Savour’ range.
“The range includes a lot of Clare Valley firsts, including UPPside Polish-inspired vodka, Italian limoncello, Spanish sangria and Polish Krupnik liqueur, something truly special. It places our region firmly on the global culinary map.”
Despite their success, the team has never lost sight of the importance of sustainability and responsible farming practices.
In 2025, the restaurant was awarded the ‘Snail of Approval’, recognising its dedication to promoting good, clean and fair food in the heart of the Clare Valley. Their focus on seasonal produce also means the menu is constantly evolving, allowing Christian to explore different European cuisines, continually offering guests something new.
This internationally recognised restaurant is leading by example, demonstrating that fine dining doesn’t need to cost the earth.
When asked what this latest award means for them, Christian explained that “it’s validation of years of dedication to sustainability, local collaboration, and delivering not just a meal but an experience. For our region, it signals growing international interest in what regional South Australia offers the world, from boutique wines and handcrafted cuisine to genuine hospitality.”
While the team says they feel “extremely humbled” by the accolade, the award highlights what South Australians have long known: the Clare Valley is a premium food and wine destination worthy of global attention. The individuals and businesses operating here continue to lead with innovation, passion and a sustainability-first approach. And seeing them recognised on the international stage never fails to make us proud to call this beautiful state home.
What: The UPPside European Restaurant
Where: 7812 Horrocks Hwy, Penwortham SA 5453
For more information, click here.
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