I’ve lived in Adelaide for 20 years. When I first got here, in my early 20s, I had heard the old myth that Adelaide City shuts down early, and has nothing to do. As it turns out, I had listened to people that hadn’t been here, and those who had insecurities about their own cities. All I needed was a tour guide, or someone to point me in the right direction.
So, when I saw that Victorian Premier Jacinta Allen had posted another schoolyard dig at our fair city, when Adelaide was awarded “The Most Beautiful City In The World” this week, I figured our neighbour to the south may need to cross the border more often, or at the very least, get some up to date info on Adelaide City after dark.
Her last sledge was about a month ago, when Adelaide made the list of world’s most liveable cities. Allan’s response on social media? “If you’re in Adelaide, flights east are cheap at the moment.”
Adelaide City after dark is buzzing with life, delicious food, cool bars, and endless fun. Whether you’re planning a date night, a catch-up with your besties, or just want to explore, the city’s got you covered. And while we don’t mind visiting Melbourne and Sydney, or Australia’s other great destinations for a change of scenery, we’ve got plenty of incredible things in our own backyard to keep us, and our interstate mates (who actually travel) busy.
Think You Know Adelaide City? Think Again.
Adelaide City’s nightlife is a mix of everything from cheap eats, to fancy dinners, cozy pubs and stylish bars. It doesn’t matter if you’re on a budget or ready to splurge; there’s something for everyone.
Foodie Heaven
Let’s start with the food. If you love fried chicken, you have to try Belles Hot Chicken – it’s spicy and oh-so-good. Ruby Red Flamingo is perfect for a fun Italian dinner, full of quirky vibes and delicious pasta.
For something a bit different, head to Thirsty Tiger or Herringbone for creative cocktails and dishes that will surprise you. Chulpan is the place to go for authentic Korean food that’ll make your taste buds boogie.
Fugazzi Bar & Dining Room, our pasta champion, is open daily from 11:30am to 11:30pm with its New York-inspired Italo-American offerings. And Midnight Spaghetti’s fast-paced rock and roll pasta kitchen will also serve you until late in the night, closing at 11:30pm Wednesday to Saturday.
For pizza lovers, Sunny’s Pizza is calling your name, open till late every single night of the week. Their toppings are as creative as they are tasty. If Japanese is more your style, Shobosho gives traditional flavours a modern twist.
And for dessert, Shibui Dessert Bar has sweets that are as beautiful as they are delicious, open till 10pm Monday to Thursday, and 10:30pm Friday and Saturday, for all your late night sugar cravings.
Late-Night Vibes
Adelaide City’s has no shortage of great pubs and bars. The Strathmore Hotel on North Terrace is perfect for hanging out with friends, while Paloma Bar and Pantry is one of our personal faves, serving up classic cocktails all night long from Wednesday to Saturday.
If you want something a bit quirky, check out A Prayer for the Wild at Heart or Bar Peripheral – their vibes and drink menus are top-notch. SORA is the city’s brand-new rooftop bar that has set a new standard for premium dining and entertainment. It offers panoramic views of the city right from Pirie Street, open till late from Wednesday to Saturday.
Got the munchies late at night? 99 Gang Social and Kickin’Inn Adelaide have you covered with tasty, affordable eats. Or, Café Troppo and Gilbert Street Hotel are chill spots to relax with great food and drinks.
A City That Never Sleeps
Beyond food and drinks, Adelaide City’s nightlife includes live music, theatres, and late-night galleries. Hey Jupiter and Fu Cocktail and Wine Bar are great spots to catch live performances and enjoy a night out.
If you’re after a cozy, laid-back vibe, you’ll feel right at home at Nearly Bar or Pastel Wine Bar. But if you’re ready to drink, sing and dance the night away, Cry Baby or Nightshade are two great places to go.
Come Experience It
So, the next time someone tells you Adelaide shuts down early, laugh it off and invite them out. There’s no better way to prove them wrong than to experience Adelaide City’s nightlife yourself. Taste it, feel it, live it – the city after dark is something special.
For all the best spots to explore, check out SeeADL. It’s your go-to guide for finding the best places in the city. Get out there and see for yourself.
READ MORE: Your guide to the best restaurants in Adelaide’s CBD.
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