Victor Harbor’s about to welcome something new, and if you’ve walked by the old cinema lately, you might’ve noticed a few people peeking a look through the windows next door.
What’s got everyone whispering and wondering?
A brand-new wine bar is on its way, set to bring a touch of warmth, flavour and fun to Ocean Street.
Stage Door Wine Bar is the passion project of Kali Santos de Almeida, a creative force in the Fleurieu business scene.
She’s a single mum of four teenagers and the owner of Made Of Stars, a unique retail space that started in Port Noarlunga and now calls 46 Goolwa Road in Middleton home.
It’s not your average shop. Made Of Stars is a colourful, eclectic place filled with handmade jewellery, gifts and homewares, all created by local artists and makers.
“The journey for me personally to open Made Of Stars and now set to open the wine bar has been a roller coaster,” Kali says.
“But I cannot thank my family and the local community enough for their unwavering and ongoing support.”
Stage Door will sit right beside the iconic Victa Cinemas, and the name is a subtle nod to the shared building.
The wine bar will bring something fresh to Victor’s main drag, offering a relaxed place to meet for a drink, especially when the town fills up with beachgoers, holiday-makers and visitors during the weekends and summer.
With around 1.2 million people visiting the area each year, and roughly 30,000 residents living across Victor, Goolwa, Middleton and Port Elliot, the demand for night-time attractions is definitely there.
“There’s something special about creating a space where everyone can feel welcome,” Kali says.
“I’ve created a new tribe with Made Of Stars and I’m so pleased to be able to provide spaces that are inclusive.”
“My businesses are extremely neurodivergent-friendly, and Stage Door Wine Bar will be too. I hope it becomes a bit of a family affair, with my teenagers helping me out when they can.”
The wine list will showcase the best of the region. The Fleurieu and nearby Langhorne Creek wine areas are known for producing some of Australia’s finest drops, so giving those wines a home in Victor makes perfect sense.
There are even early ideas being tossed around about collaborations with the cinema next door, which could make for a very fun movie-and-wine experience.
Kali also credits the local council for helping turn her vision into a reality.
“My heartfelt gratitude goes to the council too, who have been phenomenal in helping small businesses in this community get up and running,” she says.
So next time you’re in Victor Harbor and notice some renovation happening next to the cinema, you’ll know why. Pop your head in and say g’day.
Something exciting is coming, watch this space.
Stage Door Wine Bar
Where: 37-41 Ocean Street, Victor Harbor
When: Watch this space
For more info >> click here
