Image credit: Matt Carter
New Icarus bar and restaurant has officially launched on Peel Street, bringing a unique blend of flavours through its dishes and cocktails.
Co-owner Sam, with a deep-rooted passion for food and hospitality, has created a haven of gastronomic delights that spotlight local and organic suppliers from South Australia.
“I’ve always loved Peel Street, and then the opportunity arose to move in so we jumped at it. I feel Icarus will compliment the street greatly by having a larger food offering and being able to add to the already beautiful strip. The hustle and bustle of it is great,” Sam tells Glam Adelaide.
“Opening on the Showdown weekend was controversial, but from when our doors opened to when they closed, we were jam packed. The food, wine and cocktail list all got 5-star reviews from everyone that came through.
“We’re glad the time and thought it has taken to produce [Icarus] has paid off.”
Despite the energetic surroundings, Icarus aims to be the antithesis of city chaos, providing patrons with a cosy and intimate affair.
Nestled within its walls, the bar accommodates up to 80 people, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere. It has a sleek minimalist interior with cosy booths and high tables, all lit up with ambient lighting (a disco ball also makes an exciting appearance).
The burgundy coloured marble sets as a warm contrast against the sage green seating; making it a perfect night-time hotspot.
Sam’s emphasis on supporting local and organic suppliers is reflected in the carefully curated menu, with dishes cooked over charcoal offering a distinct smoky flavour.
The culinary journey will feature Eastern European and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, showcasing the bountiful produce from nearby regions.
“There will be a seasonal menu, not just set and forget. We’ll be hot on changing the menu so that we can continually put out exciting and new dishes for people to try each time they come through,” Sam affirms, promising a dynamic dining experience.
With both small plates and larger options, Icarus caters to various appetites, providing a predominantly food-centric experience during the day and at dinner.
For a taster of what’s on the menu, imagine wood grilled flatbread to start, raw 36 south beef with smoked bone marrow and cured duck yolk or cured ocean trout with ajo blanco as a small, or roast nomad farm chicken oand 200g dry aged Angus scotch for larger plates.
The desserts are also a unique affair to share around the table, with olive oil ice-cream and peitit langres currently featured on the menu.
As the night progresses, the venue comes alive, with the disco ball shining and vinyl records spinning, courtesy of guest DJs over the weekends.
Icarus also has an exceptional wine selection, focusing heavily on natural and international wines. Breaking away from the conventional Shiraz or Pinot Noir, the knowledgeable staff will encourage patrons to explore different flavours and discover new favourites.
On Fridays, the bar will transform into “Nonna’s House,” where guests can immerse themselves in the experience, complete with stories about the origins of the wines and complementary snacks.
Of course, no bar worth its salt would be complete without an impressive cocktail list. To elevate the mixology offerings, Icarus has enlisted the expertise of a seasoned friend from Melbourne, who’s the Venue Manager.
Expect a range of cocktails that go beyond the ordinary, with preparations incorporating innovative techniques such as heat, clarifications and fermentation. Just like the food menu, the cocktail offerings are tailored around seasonal produce, sourced from local farmers.
With Sam’s culinary background, including his experience cheffing in the South of France, Icarus represents the realisation of a long-held vision.
“I’ve always been in hospitality and around food, and now I have the opportunity to create the vision that’s been brewing in my mind for some time,” Sam declares.
Now that Icarus has officially opened its doors, it will serve as a great addition to Peel Street for both food enthusiasts and cocktail aficionados alike.
Icarus Tapas Bar & Restaurant
Where: 23 Peel St, Adelaide SA 5000
When: Tuesday – Saturday 4pm til’ late
More info: Click here
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