Long before Fort Largs became one of Adelaide’s most talked-about coastal dining spots, it was home to something far less polished. Beneath the heritage-listed grounds, in a room affectionately known as the dungeon, police cadets and army recruits once gathered after training to share a drink. It was gritty, loud and full of stories. There was a bar down there. And it was the heart of the fort.
In December 2024, Fort Largs reopened to the public for the first time in over a century following a $10 million redevelopment. Built in 1885 as a coastal defence post, the site later served as a training base for the Women’s Royal Australian Army Corps and the South Australian Police Academy.
The restoration has transformed the once-closed site into a vibrant seaside precinct, carefully preserving its historic bones while welcoming a fresh wave of locals and visitors.
Now, Fort Largs has uncorked a new chapter. This time, it’s all about flavour, exclusivity and showcasing the best of South Australian wine.
The newly launched cellar door sits inside the main building of the fort.
Wines are served by the glass or bottle, with the added bonus of a takeaway licence for those who want to bring something home.
Selections span across South Australia’s diverse wine regions, handpicked by Food and Beverage Operations Manager Rebecca Paris.
“We wanted to keep it authentic. Something soulful,” she says.
“We didn’t want to lose the historic feel, but we’ve shaped the new bar into something that’s welcoming.”
Every fortnight, a different winery is featured, with tastings available throughout the week and a relaxed ‘Meet the Winemaker’ session every second Thursday evening.
The first showcase, featuring a Coonawarra winery, drew a strong crowd and set the tone for what’s to come.
“There’s this great energy. People are open to discovering new labels, different varietals and asking questions,” Rebecca says.
On alternating Thursdays, the spotlight shifts to spirits, with boutique South Australian distillers offering tastings and conversations. Vodka, gin and small-batch liquors are all on rotation, bringing fresh flavour to each visit.
“It’s not just wine. We want to tell the full story of what’s being made here in South Australia,” she adds.
Food from across the precinct is welcome. Guests often bring in fresh fish and chips, bao buns or warm woodfired pizza before settling in with a glass of something local and flavoursome.
Grazing platters are also available, crafted from produce stocked in the onsite providore.
“It’s all about connection. Supporting local, supporting each other. That’s what this space is for,” Rebecca says.
Fort Largs is quickly becoming a destination. Several function spaces are now available for private events, from intimate tastings to weddings and long-table corporate dinners.
Tourists are streaming in. Locals are coming back. Former officers are returning to revisit where it all began. And deep beneath it all, the old dungeon bar remains quiet — though soon, guests will be able to explore the tunnels and the dungeon as part of a historic tour.
Fort Largs Eatery & Markets
Where: Fort Largs, 5 Strathfield Terrace, Taperoo
When: Open 7 Days
Events: Meet the Winemaker or Meet the Distiller events every Thursday evening 5pm-8pm (free to attend)
For more information, click here.
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