…sorry Sydney and Melbourne! Our small but mighty Adelaide has just been recognised as a city that artfully combines its compact charm and world-class cuisine with picturesque nature escapes, earning a delightful nod from the Wall Street Journal as being possibly the coolest city in Australia.

Emily Pennington of the Wall Street Journal took a deep dive into Adelaide to discover for herself what we have known for years: this city really is pretty cool. Surrounded by lush parklands and walking trails, our city centre is bursting with shops and eateries, all set against the backdrop of a thriving cultural scene.
When you head out from the CBD, you’ll find leafy suburbs, the charming Adelaide Hills, and the endless horizon of the sea and our glistening beaches. Despite its size, Adelaide hosts a world of experiences that are uniquely its own.
The best part? Adelaide’s pedestrian-friendly layout encourages exploration, making it easy to stumble upon hidden culinary gems and art galleries during leisurely post-meal strolls.
To uncover the secrets of this charming city, Pennington turned to some of Adelaide’s proudest residents. The local insiders shared their favourite haunts, creating a treasure map of hidden gems scattered throughout Adelaide.
Justin James, executive chef at the award-winning Restaurant Botanic, gave a nod to Adelaide’s culinary prowess. His recommendations include Bar Peripheral and Osteria Oggi for top-notch food and drinks, while Room on Fire stands out as the chef’s favourite vintage store.

Max Pritchard, of Max Pritchard Gunner Architects, highlighted North Terrace as a cultural hotspot, with the art galleries and cafes providing a perfect landscape for a day out. He also made a shoutout to Hey Jupiter for authentic French and some of the best coffee in Adelaide.

Fashionista Adut Akech Bior unveiled her go-to spots, including The Parade in Norwood, Sequoia Lodge in Mount Lofty, and the idyllic Henley Beach, perfect for those who appreciate a dash of style and luxury.
Mixologist Callan Fleming, known for his refined palate, loves Dillons Bookshop, Prospect Road favourites Meze Mazi or Anchovy Bandit, and the recently opened La Louisianne as must-visit destinations for those who appreciate expertly crafted beverages and delicious meals in vibrant settings.

While we’ve known all along that Adelaide holds a unique blend of charm, diverse and delicious cuisine, and vibrant culture, we are pretty pleased to have recognition from The Wall Street Journal – a title well-deserved, and an invitation for all to experience Adelaide’s hidden treasures.
Read the full article here.
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