Must-go Foodie Spots in South Australia

What is it about wine country that makes it so utterly glorious? The terroir, the climate, or the keen food and wine creators that it attracts? All those things and more — and in South Australia they come together in perfect harmony.

From the age of 10–13 I called Adelaide home and have been fortunate to return every 10 years or so, each time delighted with the growth and development of this gently sophisticated city. At the end of 2024 this is where I started my whistle-stop tour of South Australia, the perfect base from which to explore the region.

Hotel Indigo
23–29 Market Street, Adelaide

Just a hop, skip and a jump from Adelaide Central Market (a must-visit for any foodie), the bright and breezy Hotel Indigo is in the heart of the gastro scene. With a myriad of bars and eateries in the surrounding area, and two on-site eateries, guests are spoilt for choice when it comes to dining. The hotel’s colour scheme and interiors are cheerily playful as well as luxuriously appointed and the hotel also boasts a fitness centre, heated outdoor infinity pool, and a mezzanine level with semi-private spaces and The Sloan and Vickers rooms, available for conducting catch-ups or business meetings. In addition to its proximity to the Adelaide Central Market, Hotel Indigo is also close to Adelaide Chinatown, Her Majesty’s Theatre, Adelaide Oval and Rundle Mall shopping hub. adelaide.hotelindigo.com

Adelaide Central Market
44–60 Gouger Street, Adelaide

I highly recommend starting the day with a stroll to the Adelaide Central Market for
a great coffee followed by a perusal of their stores — and with more than 70 passionate traders under one roof, plan to give yourself plenty of time! The breadth and variety of produce is breathtaking, from French and locally crafted cheese, to stunning meats and small goods, cakes and baked treats, fresh produce galore, falafel, sushi, coffee beans and olive oil, freshly made pasta and much more. It will bring forth inspiration in even the most jaded cook. adelaidecentralmarket.com.au

Fino Vino
82 Flinders Street, Adelaide

In Gourmet Traveller magazine’s most recent top 10 restaurant ranking in South Australia, and with a ‘three wine glass’ ranking for its exceptional wine list, Fino Vino is, not surprisingly, a must-visit. Co-owner and executive chef David Swain is joined at the helm by co-owner and restaurant manager Sharon Romeo, winner of the 2022 Australian Restaurant Personality of the Year. Described as a ‘restaurant and bar which tells a South Australian regional story amid the energy and vibrancy of Adelaide city, distinguished by its produce-driven ideology’, the interiors are warm, pared-back yet inviting, with a pleasing mix of textures and masonry walls. Harlequin stone has been sourced from the nearby Flinders Ranges and the walls are adorned with art by the late Port Willunga artist Bridget Ohlsson. With 70 seats, comprised of booths, shared tables and bar seating, guests are encouraged to treat the space as their own. Dining options include à la carte, and four- and six-course tasting menus with wine pairing. The food on offer is as rich and textural as the interior, a winning combination with vegetables dishes celebrated alongside the proteins — Romeo describes it as ‘refined peasant food’ with respect for both producers and ingredients at the forefront. Standouts include Walnut Tarator with Pickled Fennel; Chicken Liver Parfait with Port Jelly; Potato Gnocchi with Mushrooms and Grana Padano; and South Australian Octopus, twice blanched, braised and then grilled, served with Steamed Kinkawooka Mussels and a Saffron and Tomato Sauce. I recommend leaving room for dessert — the Crèma Catalana was unquestionably the best I have ever tasted. finovino.net.au

Le Mas
1929 Barossa Valley Way, Rowland Flat

No visit to the region is complete without a fulsome exploration of The Barossa. To complete the experience, a stay at Le Mas is, without doubt, the icing on the cake. A member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Le Mas is a reimagining of a historic 1857 farmhouse, reflecting a contemporary Provençal style. Owner Geraldine Frater- Wyeth’s French-Australian heritage is on display throughout the property with thoughtful touches, an elegant eye and every possible whim catered to. With just three bedrooms, each is stunningly decorated with en suites featuring travertine flooring, Hermès toiletries and luxurious king-size beds. A recent addition to the team is executive chef Ryan Edwards, whose incredible food I had previously experienced at The Louise. With a passion and flair for French cuisine, Edwards is the perfect choice, and guests can enjoy his four-course ‘Chef’s Dinner’ menu, served in The Orangerie dining area, as a part of an overnight stay at Le Mas every Friday and Saturday. The feast I enjoyed featured delectable, perfectly pink duck served with lentils, rich with the salty goodness of lardons, served on a silky smooth butternut purée. I have a bit of a reputation amongst friends and family for my homemade lemon tart, but I must confess the one prepared by Edwards for dessert, knocked mine off its perch. A stay at Le Mas is a joy, guests feel completely at home in the sumptuous surroundings and those with whom I chatted had nothing but praise for the food, surroundings and dedicated service provided. lemasbarossa.com.au

Small Batch Wine Tours

If you’re considering a trip to South Australia, I’m going to go out on (not much of) a limb here and assume a deep interest in and love of wine — and I’m right there with you. Small Batch Wine Tours is the expert team to talk to, to join a private or group tour and explore the wine region in style. My tour began with a quick stop at the Tanunda Bakery and Café to marvel at the outrageous array of baked goods,
all with a German heritage thanks to the influx of German Lutheran settlers from Prussia to the area in 1851. Rye sourdough, glistening pretzels, bienenstich (bee sting cake) and streusel buns are displayed proudly for the lucky locals. Our next stop was at Two Hands Wines, a small privately owned winery specialising in shiraz. The cellar door was established in 2004, and features a glass floor from where you can glimpse the original cellar, now a museum wine cellar. Their vineyard experiences started about seven years ago. Proprietor and managing director Michael Twelftree had been on safari in South Africa and having experienced tours there, was inspired to buy a couple of Land Rover Defenders and the vineyard tours were born. After tasting a few delicious drops, visitors are ably chauffeured around the property with an obligatory stop to say ‘hi’ to Brutus and his Scottish Highlander cattle family. It isn’t uncommon to spot a kangaroo jumping between the rows of vines in this very Australian vineyard adventure. The idea is to experience the produce from vine to the glass and dining options are also available. smallbatchwinetours.com.au

Fino Seppeltsfield
730 Seppeltsfield Road, Seppeltsfield

The original sister restaurant to Vino Fino in Adelaide, Fino is located at Seppeltsfield as an extension of Seppeltsfield Barossa Estate. With a similar vibe and obvious care for exceptional produce, the menu includes full vegan and vegetarian options alongside the regular fare. Large, light and airy with additional outdoor seating, the restaurant is casual and laid-back, providing lots of opportunities to preview the plates as they pass by. From Prawn Toast with Sesame and Chilli Mayo to Sweetcorn Dumplings with Chilli and Ginger Caramel and Hampshire Pork with Buttered Cabbage and Ale Mustard, they look as good as they taste. fino.net.au

David Franz Wines
94 Stelzer Road, Tanunda

David Franz Wines is the mastermind of ebullient and charismatic David Franz, an artisan winemaker and vigneron, designer and cook. His cellar door is nestled in a charming cottage that has stood on the estate since the 1860s. Fully restored and rejuvenated, it offers visitors an exceptional winery experience. Guests are invited to enjoy a delightful combination of exquisite wines and some of David Franz’s favourite culinary pairings, accompanied by truly eclectic but fabulous music. A visit to David Franz promises the warmth of genuine Barossa hospitality courtesy of Franz’s enthusiasm, complemented by some of the region’s most breathtaking views. He believes the Barossa is an extra special example of wine country with an incredible sense of community, camaraderie and genuine care. He quotes a common saying in the region that if a person sneezes on one side of the Barossa, someone at the opposite end will say ‘bless you’. He reckons the staff at the cellar doors in the region look out for others in the industry — they’ll get a sense of what you like and how your palate is then send you on to the next best spot to visit. South Australia was the only free colony that was settled originally not as a penal colony, and he believes the culture that has developed, in conjunction with the religious German immigrants, has provided a subtly gentle distinction to other areas in Australia. His parents brought the family up with an appreciation of food, wine and hospitality, which is clearly still incredibly dear to him, and he believes this is true of the Barossa in general. The cellar door experience comes with a build-your-own platter offering, eschewing the traditional chef-decided spread. This way punters can pick and choose exactly what they would like to sample along with the extensive wine selection, as well as buy the small goods from the well-stocked fridge. Franz makes everything himself, including charcuterie, using local produce. A visit to David Franz Wines is an essential part of your Barossa trip! david-franz.com

Barossa Farmers Market
740 Stockwell Road, Angaston

Open every Saturday from 7:30am to 11:30am, it’s worth timing your visit to the region so that you can experience the fun and food of the authentic Barossa Farmers Market. This is where locals come to stock up on supplies for the week ahead, with vegetables, fruit, meats and bread plus delicious oils, preserves, pastries, dumplings, cakes, sweet treats, coffee, and local specialties on offer. One well-known stallholder is Michael Wohlstadt aka The Dairyman. The Dairyman is a traditional mixed farm nestled in the heart of the Barossa. Wohlstadt’s approach to farming is steeped in heritage, using proven methods that have stood the test of time to deliver exceptional quality. His offerings include milk, cream, butter, veal, and a range of pork products such as bacon, ham, and sausages — all from pasture-raised animals cared for with exceptional attention. Place your order in advance, and he’ll happily cut your bacon just the way you like it. The farm’s award-winning butter, with its golden richness, is so outstanding that it graces the tables of some of the Barossa’s most renowned restaurants. barossafarmersmarket.com

Tilbrook Estate
1856 Lobethal Road, Lenswood

The story of Tilbrook Estate began in 1999 when James and Annabelle Tilbrook set out on a quest to find the ideal location for their wine venture. Their journey led them through Australia’s cool climate regions until they discovered Lenswood, a hidden treasure in the Adelaide Hills. Known for its pristine environment and status as one of the country’s coolest grape-growing areas, Lenswood was the perfect choice.

Driven by a deep passion for winemaking and an unwavering dedication to quality, and the protection of the environment, James and Annabelle established Tilbrook Estate. From the start, their philosophy was simple yet profound: “Handmade by our hands.” This commitment meant personally overseeing every step of the process, from tending the vines to crafting and bottling the wine with meticulous care. It’s this hands-on approach and attention to detail that make Tilbrook Estate stand out, offering a truly authentic and distinctive experience among Adelaide Hills wineries.

The cellar door is open weekends and public holidays for tastings, to purchase, and to dine on incredible stone-cooked pizzas created by internationally multi-awarded, pizza-authority Enrico Sgarbossa. Originally from Bassano Del Grappa, Sgarbossa started his career under the famous Italian pizza chef Valerio Valle at Compagnia della Pizza, before arriving in Australia in 2010.

Not only does he create fabulous pizzas, he is very busy outside Tilbrook estate as a master pizza consultant and creator of the innovative Zero-Waste Bread, blending tradition, expertise, and sustainability in every creation. By taking dough that would normally be thrown out and transforming it into fresh, flavour-packed bread, Enrico has created a product that doesn’t just taste great, it’s also good for the planet. The bread is made using leftover pizza dough, water, flour, and yeast, and I can attest that the flavour and structure is not remotely impeded during the reinvention.

Meanwhile Sgarbossa’s pizzas are, of course, incredible. With a spongy, crispy, outer crust and thin base, my favourite topping featured potato, pressed through a potato ricer, perfumed with truffle and topped with milky mozzarella cream. tilbrookestate.com.au

Arkhé
127 The Parade, Norwood

With experience working alongside the likes of Heston Blumenthal and Matt Moran, it’s no surprise that co-owner and head chef at Arkhé, Michelin-starred Jake Kellie, is in command of his kitchen. Seated at the chef’s table/bar area diners are afforded the best view into Adelaide’s first open-flame kitchen, and its mighty three-and-a-half tonne wood-burning oven. The team work in an impressive, seamless, quiet and calm flow as Kellie inspects every dish, punctuated by an occasional sharp clap of hands as Kellie or one of the crew request attention. Service is on point, not just for me writing about my experience, but every diner I can see is treated with the same exceptionally high level of care — warm, inviting and informative. The charming couple next to me comment that watching the kitchen is like watching an episode of The Bear live, but this is so much less frenetic, there is total control. Diner favourites include the Parfait Tartlet a la Burnt Ends, which I can confirm is sublime with silky smooth parfait in a fine pastry base, crisply bruléed to perfection, and the Sourdough Crumpet with Blue Swimmer Crab, with a soft spongy crumpet, sweet crab meat and a kick of harissa heat. The menu changes often so I felt especially lucky to time it right to try luxuriously rich duck dumplings served in a deeply spicy chilli broth — the combination intense but incredible. arkhe.com.au

My Grandma Ben
5 Third Street, Bowden

Grandma Ben is the nickname of co-owner Jessie Spiby’s grandma — a childhood combination of Betty and Gran that stuck. She provided plenty of inspiration for this sustainability-focused operation, with her frugal nature and ability to whip up delicious meals seemingly out of nothing. Jessie and co-owners Taylor Peplow Ball and Jodie Zerna have taken that concept and amplified it, actively working to minimise food and plastic waste, providing a veggie-forward menu and making great use of their own range of pickles and preserves. They’ve even had kangaroo meat on the menu for the past six years, choosing it as a highly sustainable meat source. The Avocado Toast I enjoyed on my visit, was so much more than the name suggests — served Italian-style with pine nuts and an addictive chilli fennel crisp, a perfect hot and spicy foil for the creamy avocado and deliciously chewy ciabatta. This casual spot is part of an elevated food court, bright and breezy and well worth a visit. mygrandmaben.com

Vino Lokal
64 Murray Street, Tanunda

Located in the charmingly picturesque town of Tanunda, Vino Lokal is open Thursday
to Sunday for breakfast and lunch with dinner available on Fridays and Saturdays. Operated by a dynamic trio of women, the vibe is relaxed and casual, with a creative dining menu and a diverse Barossa-only wine offering. Co-owner Lucy Koehler absolutely loves her job, and adores being ‘on the floor’, meeting people and hearing their stories. She is inspired by the close, local community and can’t imagine living anywhere else. A wine aficionado, she waxes lyrical about the variety of terroir in the Barossa and the breadth of wine offerings that provides. Friday evenings here feature ‘Friday knock-off ’ events where they provide free local wine tastings for the punters with the wine available to purchase. The food is deliciously inventive with dishes such as Roast Pumpkin and Wild Rice with Coconut Curry Sauce, Crispy Chickpeas, Mint Raita and Fried Kale, and Hummus with Spiced Beef, Spring Onion, Fresh Herbs, Pomegranate and Dukkah. Both are total flavour bombs, full of zing and texture and an utter delight to eat. vinolokal.com

Ferment Asian
90 Murray Street, Tanunda

Just down the road from Vino Lokal, Vietnamese restaurant Ferment Asian is located in a charming heritage building boasting pared-back interiors with a gentle sophistication. Chef and owner Tuoi Do is, remarkably, a self-taught culinary whiz, whose dynamic style has garnered an enthusiastic local following as well as national recognition. Much of the produce used to create the menu, particularly the flavour- boosting herbs, is sourced from Do’s own garden created by her parents on their arrival together from Vietnam. The menu is packed with enticing options, including Nem Ha Noi — Hanoi spring rolls with fresh herbs and a classic Vietnamese dipping sauce; Thit Lon Cuon La Lot — fresh betel leaves with sticky caramelised Barossa Hampshire pork; and Cari Ca — yellow curry of barramundi with banana chilli and lotus root. The betel leaves are utterly delicious with chilli and toasted coconut providing a lovely nubbly crunch while the barramundi curry is very mellow and soft. The lime brulée is a perfectly petite creamy delight and the service exceptionally speedy and warm. fermentasian.com.au

Red Cacao
41 Mount Barker Road, Stirling

Community seems to be a common theme amongst the Barossa business fraternity, with the team at Red Cacao echoing the importance of nurturing and hospitality, which extends beyond customers to fellow businesses and regional charities. Owner Marcus Booth- Remmers has a stellar skillset having honed his chocolate-making craft while working and studying in Germany. From 8:30am most days the café is bustling with punters enjoying coffee, or a morning hot or iced chocolate alongside Apple Crumble Waffles with Cinnamon Ice Cream and Butterscotch Sauce and later perhaps a Fromage Tart topped with Feta, Olives, Spinach and Roasted Capsicum. But it is the chocolate specialties that really gets them swooning — stunning, perfectly presented truffles and ganache available to enjoy on site or take away in equally pretty packaging. With flavours ranging from Earl Grey to Mandarin, and Ugandan 80% chocolate to Leatherwood Honey, these are intensely flavoured, sophisticated bites and Booth-Remmers should feel deservedly proud of the stellar reputation and following Red Cacao has garnered. redcacao.com.au

Kokoni
7 Compton Street, Adelaide

Kokoni is a small, bustling izakaya-style bar and diner tucked away in the Adelaide CBD. With no wine on the menu, they do offer beer, sake, cocktails and, happily for me, whisky. The menu is small, the service impeccable and the music so good I started compiling a playlist while I enjoyed my meal. The tiny interior features simple wooden tables, benches and a bar seating area. The walls are a soft blue with wooden battens and the every available spot is filled with diners kicking back and soaking up the atmosphere, alongside the brilliant food. The menu extends from Black Pepper Wagyu Beef Don with a Soft-boiled Egg and Kimchi, to Tsukune — Chicken Meatballs with Water Chestnuts and Soft-boiled Eggs — to the slightly mad-sounding Cheese Sausage Skewers with Teriyaki Sauce. Iopted for simply prepared Salted Edamame Beans followed by Pork Gyoza — a light dish given this was the conclusion of fulsomely eating and drinking my way from Adelaide to the Barossa and back. To finish I sipped a Hakushu whisky reflecting on a most satisfying Australian adventure.