Adelaide’s popular Electra House on King William Street has emerged from a significant transformation, shedding its nightclub image to become a warm and inviting bar and function space, simply known as Electra.
General Manager Chase Baldacchino explained that the extensive revamp was crucial in response to the evolving needs and preferences of patrons, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Since 2020, we’ve seen the nightclub scene across the city decimated. Young people especially no longer want to stay out until the early hours,” said Mr Baldacchino. “The hospitality sector in general has changed dramatically, and cost-of-living pressures are also making it tough, so nailing our offering has never been more important.”
Electra’s front bar now boasts booth seating, plush furnishings, improved acoustics, and a dark, moody palette inspired by European lounge bars. The design team emphasised the building’s history, paying homage to its original architecture and timeless character.
“What sets us apart from other wine bar venues in the city is our size,” Mr Baldacchino noted. “We’ve been clever with the design to ensure it still feels intimate while accommodating multiple groups of varying sizes at the same time.”
“The main bar that we’ve changed – is a small bar… and I just wanted it to feel like that. It always kind of felt empty because the whole room was white… Since COVID, things have changed. People want to come out and sit around with a group of friends and have a couple of nice bottles of wine, or a round of cocktails, rather than people heading out to party hard.”
The menu has also been refreshed, featuring a range of shared plates and an expanded, more refined wine list. “We understand that people are looking for a memorable experience and value for money when planning their nights out,” Mr Baldacchino added.
“Our food menu is modern Australian… But we have changed it to include more, smaller, shared options. That’s what we find people are wanting. They’re either looking for a premium experience where they are willing to spend top dollar… Then the other side of it, people just want to see value. Small options, small plates, $15, $16, where they can sit down with their friends and enjoy a wine – that’s it.”
During the pandemic, functions became a core offering for Electra, and the venue’s focus shifted towards creating a versatile space for events and gatherings. This flexible approach will be key to navigating the current challenges facing the hospitality industry.
Mr Baldacchino is also optimistic about the positive impact of nearby developments, such as the opening of the Marriott Hotel and the transformation of Eleven into Roma Restaurant and Deli.
“There are some exciting changes occurring in our little corner of the CBD,” he said. “We will all be offering something different, but it will activate the precinct and hopefully encourage more businesses to move into the area. Additional venues nearby is a good thing, so the more the merrier!”
“The timing of the Marriott opening was one of the main factors that drove us to do the refresh, given that we are literally next door. Electra is going to be comfortable and affordable. Marriott guests can come down in their t-shirt and shorts, and they don’t need to walk far to enjoy themselves.”
Electra opens to the public on Friday, 30 August.
WHAT: Electra reopens
WHERE: 131 King William Street, Adelaide, SA, Australia, South Australia
WHEN: Friday, August 30th 2024
MORE INFO: https://www.facebook.com/electrahouseADL
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