At the Sussex Hotel in Walkerville winter is celebrated. While the renovated venue made its summer debut, it’s the colder months that are unlocking its true personality, with five flickering fireplaces, fondue fun, nostalgic puddings, bold winter wines and comfort food that is a little bit fancy without losing its local pub soul.
“There’s no shortage of cosy corners,” says Lee Cook, General Manager of Hospitality.
“Fireside, naturally, nestled into a plush chair, a glass of bold Australian red or spiced mulled wine in hand, and good company across from you. Pair that with a plate of something local from our kitchen, and it’s winter perfection.”
Five fires are dotted throughout the venue, including two outdoor firepits and a stunning two-way fire in the retractable-roof courtyard. But the lounge is where the real fireside magic happens.
“It’s got that plush, intimate vibe,” Lee explains.
“Deep green chairs, terracotta walls, moody lighting. It’s bold, elegant, and somehow still incredibly calming. We’ve even had guests ask how they can recreate the look at home.”
The Sussex has leaned into its heritage charm.
“The Parlour, The Lounge, The Courtyard—it’s refined but never exclusive. At our core, we’re still a great local pub with warm, welcoming spaces that feel like home.”
The kitchen is making just as strong an impression.
“We are really proud of what we have achieved here with the kitchen team,” he says.
The pork belly porchetta and wild-harvested kangaroo have been crowd favourites. The hot cinnamon donuts are another must, with some people ordering extra to take home.
“Four for $12, served fresh and fluffy. Enjoy them as a dessert, with a coffee, or take them to go. Donut leave without them,” laughs Lee.
Fondue is a new feature on Monday nights.
“The cheese fondue is pure 70’s nostalgia, with all the cosy, shareable charm of a retro dinner party.”
“Made with a molten mix of fontina, gruyère and gouda, it arrives bubbling hot with Barossa chorizo, broccoli florets, cornichons, fresh sweet nashi pear, and slices of sourdough baguette.”
Sweet or savoury fondue is every Monday for lunch and dinner and at $50 for two people also includes two glasses of wine.
Another winter highlight that’s fast becoming a sell-out is the monthly Pudding Club.
“It started as a playful nod to a mate from the UK who raved about his local pudding nights,” says Lee.
“Expect live-action dessert theatre from our Pudding Master, a rotating line-up of nostalgic sweets, and generous servings that make putting on a few winter kilos totally worth it.”
The puddings have been memorable.
“Last month Sticky Toffee Pudding was the undeniable classic triumph,” says Lee.
“But Spotted Dick was the dark horse. Starting out with humble expectations, this traditional British dessert surprised us all with its lemony goodness.”
The Pudding Club is held on the last Tuesday of every month, and is a night dedicated to indulgent classic desserts, with the winner chosen by you. The $49pp cost includes a roast dinner and four puddings and lashings of fun.
It’s not just food that makes the Sussex feel special. Dogs are welcome too.
“We’re big dog people,” says Lee.
“We’ve had pups snooze by the firepit, celebrate birthdays, even arrive in prams.”
One visitor, Maisie the Airedale, even travelled from the Adelaide Hills just to visit.
At the Sussex, it’s about creating moments. That’s what winter here feels like. People come for lunch and stay until the lights dim. A drink turns into dinner. A casual visit becomes a night to remember.
“Life is about moments. Create them,” says Lee.
And yes, it’s featured in our Ultimate Fireplace Guide because five fires deserve a mention.
The Sussex Hotel
Where: 68 Walkerville Terrace, Walkerville
When: Open 7 Days. 8am-2am. Dining 12pm-9pm.
For more information, click here.
