Feature image: Zara Richards; Body images: Tyler Marsland
Adelaide’s east end is set to gain another bar along the vibrant Rundle Street strip, with Society opening its doors to the public this weekend – just in time for Fringe season.
Taking over the former Mum Cha site, co-owners Josh Kleeman and Alex Huddleston have created a sexy cocktail den, with classic mixes and an array of Modern-Australian tapas.
“It’s real now,” Josh says. “It’s a strange feeling to see all come together at once.”
“We think it’s unique to the area,” Alex adds. “We definitely don’t want to make it feel like it’s high end even though we’re in the east end.”
“I think our name describes it.
“We’re very much towards like the environment where people can really enjoy themselves. We want people to feel comfortable moving around the venue, you’re not stuck in your seat.”
When we met with Society, the team were working on the finishing touches ahead of their Saturday launch. But while tables and chairs were stacked, you could already feel the causal, luxe vibe the bar creates.
Every detail has been thought of.
The dark blue interior juxtaposes the soft gold elements running throughout the bar and the stunning, modern feature light piece. On the top level, you can watch the talented chefs preparing your soon-to-be tapas in the open plan kitchen.
Slinging glazed tofu – with soft herbs and house pickles – duck spring rolls with apple sauce and market fish ceviche, the menu has been created to share on the side of the incredible cocktails.
Downstairs, the exposed brick cocktail den, with low lighting and an impressive back bar, is the perfect place to carry on your weekend antics. Sip on a Bramble – made with blackberry jam, 78 degrees gin, lemon and sugar – or an SA take on a classic Negroni, stirring okar bitters together with 78 degrees ross vermouth and gin.
And as the night progresses, and the spirits keep flowing, Society will be soundtracking the remainder of the evening and setting up decks and hosting live DJ sessions.
“We don’t want people to feel like when they come here that they have to act proper. They can be carefree and enjoy themselves,” Alex says.
“We want [people] to go and talk to the chef’s, that’s why we have the massive open kitchen. We want them to talk to Kobe, our cocktail guy and ask questions.
“Kobe is a genius as well, we’re very lucky to have him.”
While the doors are yet to open, expect to feel immediately at ease when walking into Society. From the friendly staff to the incredible cocktails and having the heartbeat of the CBD on its doorstep, the new bar is one to add to your must-visit list.
Society will be open from Wednesday through to Sunday from midday onwards, serving dinner throughout the week and lunch and dinner on weekends.
Find Society at 279 Rundle Street, Adelaide 5000.
Keep up to date with Society on Instagram.
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