Iconic South Australian establishment The Edinburgh Hotel and Cellars, is celebrating its 150th birthday with special events, reunions and reflections about its rich history.
With the Ed’s hugely popular annual event, Great Shiraz Challenge, on the horizon and a rare Fourth of July celebration bourbon dinner on the cards now, the hotel is looking like a major winter attraction.
The hotel’s owners, Chris Codling and Danny Djurasevich, are this year also marking a significant milestone — 40 years since they bought the business.
With such an incredible history, owners and staff have been busily sharing stories and reminiscing about decades as one of the oldest hotels in South Australia.
Speaking with the hotel’s manager Patrick Allan, he said the two milestones for The Ed, as it’s affectionately known, are exciting and he believes the ongoing popularity of the hotel, dining venue and cellars is the result of providing something for everyone.
“We cater for groups, families, couples, weddings and corporates and everyone is made to feel very welcome,” he said.
“Over the years the heritage-listed hotel in Mitcham has expanded — including the opening of The Edinburgh Cellars in 1991 — and undergone some renovations but deliberately stayed true to the heritage and character the hotel has built up over the years.
“I think the main ingredient for the hotel’s success has been providing a consistent experience over the years, and people come back to The Ed because they know they will be looked after well, and it feels like home.”
Built and licensed to Robert Nesbit in 1869, The Ed has expanded over the years. In 1976, parts of the hotel were classified as ‘buildings of interest’ by the National Trust of SA.
Mr Codling and Mr Djurasevich have continued to grow the business, which today employs 110 staff.
The Ed is a favourite with people for its food and wine offerings — from the Edinburgh Hotel menu to the bar and snack dishes — as well as its function areas which include the elegant Victorian Room and the lush surroundings of the Ed Garden.
As part of the 150-year celebrations, a reunion event for former ‘Ed’ staff — many of whom are prominent figures in their chosen fields, such as winemaking — is being organised.
The Ed will also host several other functions throughout the year, including the legendary Shiraz Cup, a ladies’ lunch and an event for the family and friends of the hotel.
“We will also hold our popular annual events which tie in with important dates such as Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and Christmas Eve,” Patrick said.
“We are keen to share as many stories as we can about The Ed’s colourful history and our exciting future plans.
“Since taking over The Ed in 1979, Chris and Danny have carefully renovated the hotel and made sure it’s sympathetic to the local area because we have a great affinity with Mitcham – we like that everything the hotel does has to ties to the local community.”
The Edinburgh Cellars was originally a general store, built in 1855, and then an arts and crafts shop. On December 8, 1991, it became The Edinburgh Cellars and has been expanded to include a large cellar, extended drive through and cool room.
The Cellars is an award-winning independent retailer of boutique wine, craft beer and small batch spirits and hosts myriad events throughout the year, including ones for members of its Champagne Club.
Meanwhile, The Ed continues to be a popular choice for corporate functions, as well as weddings, birthdays and more. Keep an eye out on their roster of events, their 150 year is looking chock full.
The Ed can be found at 7 High St, Mitcham SA 5062.
More News
